Windsor Renames ‘Suicide Hill’

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City of Windsor

The City of Windsor has renamed what was long referred to as “Suicide Hill” in East Riverside to “Hope Hill”.

City Councillors Gary Kaschak and Jeewen Gill made the announcement, Friday afternoon.

The hill in Riverside’s Little River Corridor Park was often referred to as “Suicide Hill”, and is is often used by local residents for tobogganing in the winter months and recreational activities throughout the year.

“Names are important,” said Ward 7 Councillor Jeewen Gill. “We use names to communicate, to create ties and emotional bonds with people, places and things. That is why Council supported the investment in signage to help connect this place to our community in a strong and positive way.”

In May, the Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor Essex County Branch initiated a campaign inviting the community to offer alternate names for the hill. Organizers received over 1,000 submissions, five names were shortlisted for a public vote, and Hope Hill was chosen as the new name.

In September, City Council approved the naming request in accordance with the City’s Naming, Renaming or Dedicating Municipal Property, Buildings and Parks Policy and agreed to allocate $1,500 for a new sign to be placed by the hill.

Organizers say the decision coincided with Suicide Awareness Month as an educational opportunity for suicide awareness and prevention initiatives in the community.