City of Kingston seeks input on relocation of SJA statue, uses of previous site in City Park

Residents of the City of Kingston are asked to submit ideas, concepts and themes for a new installation and possible future programming at the former location of the Sir John A. Macdonald statue in City Park. Input on the proposed relocation of the statue to the Cataraqui Cemetery is welcomed by the City as well.

“The City is looking for input, from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members on the relocation of the statue to the cemetery as well as on future uses of its previous location in City Park – there are lots of ways community can share ideas and get involved in these discussions,” said Jennifer Campbell, Director Heritage Services.

According to a release from the City, the community engagement includes small group meetings with Indigenous community members, an idea-sharing drop-in at City Park, a facilitated online working session specific to possible future installations in City Park and focused surveys – which can be completed online, by email, by phone or by mail. Details of these opportunities are available at GetInvolved.CityofKingston.ca.

The City said that the relocation of the Sir John A. Macdonald statue, and the creation of new interpretive elements at City Park, are aimed at fostering a more inclusive, equitable and diverse community. These initiatives also reflect the actions taken by Council to lead change as a commitment to a shared path of reconciliation that is symbolic, substantive, and systemic, according to the release.

This community consultation will run until the end of November and the City said that the input received will help to determine next steps on the statue relocation as well as guidelines for the future development of interpretive installations in City Park.

Residents can offer feedback in the following ways:

• Complete the surveys: From Oct.12 to Nov. 30, go to Get Involved Kingston to view the conversation and to complete surveys to let staff know your ideas for a new installation at City Park and the relocation of the statue to the Cataraqui Cemetery. You can also complete the surveys by phone or request a mailed paper copy by calling 613-546-0000.
• Indigenous residents and community members are invited to join small group circles: Information on how to join a circle is available at GetInvolved.CityofKingston.ca, or can be requested by emailing Melissa at First Peoples Group who can help with meeting dates, times and registration. [email protected]
• Meet project team members in person: On Saturday, Oct. 23, meet City staff and consultants First People’s Group at the northwest corner in City Park from 1-4 p.m. Share ideas about how the space can be used moving forward.
• Register for the working session: Participate in the upcoming facilitated online working session on Nov. 15, from 4 to 6 p.m. Registration is required and can be completed online at GetInvolved.CityofKingston.ca.

Fostering healthy citizens and vibrant spaces is a priority of Kingston City Council.