Fri, May 01
|Outside of the Optimist Community Centre
These Medicines Linger: Unami Lenape Stories of the Land
Join D.A. Lockhart for a walk through the heart of Memorial Park to explore the rich cultural histories, traditions, and ecological knowledges of the Unami Lenape and other local Nations, the "original people" of these lands.
Time & Location
May 01, 2026, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Outside of the Optimist Community Centre, 1075 Ypres Ave, Windsor, ON N8W 4W4, Canada
About the event
These Medicines Linger: Unami Lenape Stories of the Land
Friday, May 1st from 6:30 to 7:30 PM
Host: D.A. Lockhart (wazhashkpoetry.com)
Join award-winning author and storyteller D.A. Lockhart for an immersive walking conversation through the heart of Memorial Park. While many see this green space as a modern urban retreat, it sits upon layers of deep time and the enduring heritage of the Unami Lenape, the Anishinaabe, and the other local Nations who have stewarded these lands since time immemorial.
This walk moves beyond the gravel paths to re-center our perspective on the Windsor-Essex ecosystem through an Indigenous lens. We will explore the spiritual and ecological worldview of the "Original People," focusing on how the unique flora and fauna of the Carolinian forest are woven into traditional stories, governance, and survival. As we walk, we will reflect on what it means to be a guest on this territory and how understanding the original ecological relationships of the land can help us build a more sustainable and respectful future together.
About the host:
D.A. Lockhart is a Lenape author, editor, and publisher based in Windsor, Ontario. He is a graduate of the Indiana University – Bloomington MFA in Creative Writing program and holds a Neal-Marshall Graduate Fellowship in Creative Writing. Lockhart's work often reflects his passion for storytelling and his commitment to decolonization and reconciliation. His recent works include "Commonwealth" and "Leaf Counter," which have been nominated for various literary awards. Lockhart resides at Waawiiyaatanong and is a vital voice in the Windsor arts community.
Event type:
Jane’s Walk - One hour guided walking tour
Starting/Ending location of the walk:
Outside of the Optimist Community Centre, 1075 Ypres Ave, Windsor, ON N8W 1S1
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vF1VLdR363hc6sm58
Walking distance:
Participants can expect to walk 1.5 km.
Audience:
All ages welcome
Accessibility Notes:
Paved and unpaved trails
Rest opportunities: there are benches/seats along the route
Is there a bathroom nearby?
Public bathroom available at starting location
Where can attendees park?
Free parking lot at the starting/ending location
Are dogs welcome?
Dog friendly: participants can bring leashed dogs