Onöndowa’ga Park

Seneca Park… Onöndowa’ga Park. A place once known by a name given by others, now reclaimed. Onöndowa’ga Park stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Seneca people. This park, nestled in the heart of Skokie, tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and the power of reclaiming one’s identity. Onöndowa’ga Park wasn’t always known by this name. Originally called Seneca Park, it bore a name derived from a mispronunciation of an Algonquian word used by Europeans to broadly refer to three Haudenosaunee nations. This misnomer eventually became specifically associated with the Onöndowa’ga people, more commonly known today as the Seneca. In 2024, as part of the Skokie Park District’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, the park was renamed Onöndowa’ga Park. This act of renaming reflects a larger movement to honor the history and heritage of the original inhabitants of this land. The Skokie Park District’s decision to rename the park demonstrates a commitment to recognizing and rectifying past misrepresentations. It’s a story of acknowledging the past, embracing the present, and paving the way for a more inclusive future. The very ground we stand on has a deep history. It is part of the ancestral homeland of the Onöndowa’ga, who were master agriculturalists. They cultivated the land, establishing thriving communities along the Genesee River Valley. They were not just farmers; they were traders, connecting with cultures across vast distances through intricate networks of footpaths. The park stands as a reminder of their presence and their enduring legacy. The renaming of Onöndowa’ga Park is just one step in a broader effort by the Skokie Park District to honor the Native American tribes who originally called this land home. The park’s new name echoes the voices of the past, ensuring that the story of the Onöndowa’ga people continues to be told. As you stroll through Onöndowa’ga Park, remember its journey. It is a journey of reclamation and remembrance. It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of the Seneca people. It’s a story that continues to unfold, enriching the tapestry of Skokie’s history.