Introduction: Before European expansion, Manhattan was inhabited by the Lenape people, an indigenous Native group who were part of the larger Algonquian-speaking tribes in the northeastern part of the now United States. The Lenape were known for their farming, fishing, and trading practices. They lived in small, scattered settlements, growing maize, beans, and squash, as well as fishing in various bodies of water like rivers and coastal waters. The society was organized into matrilineal clans, and they had a rich cultural and spiritual life, deeply connected with the land and nature. 

Problems Faced by the Lenape People: With the arrival of European settlers, the Lenape faced numerous challenges. They faced challenges like the loss of their ancestral lands, widespread exposure to new diseases brought by Europeans, which caused thousands of deaths as they had no immunity, and the disruption of their traditional way of life. As European settlements expanded, the Lenape were increasingly displaced, often through unfair treaties and forced removals. This led to a drastic reduction in their population and a loss of their cultural heritage. Additionally, a significant issue that plagued not just the Lenape but many Native American tribes across the continent was the widespread disregard and erasure of their history and contributions to American history. This neglect is evident in the lack of representation of Native American histories in educational curriculums, mainstream media, and public discourse. The history taught often focuses on European perspectives and experiences, marginalizing the stories, struggles, and achievements of indigenous peoples. This systemic disregard contributes to a broader societal misunderstanding and underappreciation of the complex and rich histories of Native American communities. The Lenape, once the stewards of Manhattan Island, have their history often overshadowed by the narrative of European colonization and development. This failure to acknowledge their story is part of a broader issue where Native American histories are frequently sidelined or misrepresented in the collective American consciousness.

Proposed Solution: The need for a memorial for the Lenape can be justified by their historical disregard. Such a memorial would serve as an important highlight of their presence, history, and contributions, counteracting the more often neglect of Native American histories. A  proposal for a memorial that I have is a creation of a central sculpture that can be featured at the center of Madison Square Park that captures the essence of the Lenape culture, possibly an abstract representation of the Great Tree, a symbol of life and resilience in many Native American cultures. It could be created in collaboration with Lenape artists. On the side of said sculpture can be a stone engraving highlighting the Lenape people as the Natives to Manhattan, as well as giving respect to all Native Americans throughout the Americas who were expelled from their native lands. 
Conclusion: A memorial dedicated to the Lenape people of Manhattan would serve as a powerful reminder of the island’s original inhabitants and their shining light on their legacy. It would provide a space for reflection on the past and education about the rich cultural heritage of the Lenape. Such a memorial would not only honor the Lenape but also contribute to a broader understanding and appreciation of indigenous histories and cultures, fostering a more inclusive and respectful society.