Windsorites hope Ford Fireworks bring cross

Windsorites hope Ford Fireworks bring cross-border connection

Local residents hope the annual tradition will help neighbours put politics aside

Thousands are expected to line the streets of Windsor, Ont. and Detroit to see the 68th annual Ford Fireworks on Monday.

Set off from barges in the Detroit River, and spectacularly viewed from both sides of the river, he event aims to celebrate the historically strong friendship between both countries.

But amidst an ongoing trade war sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump, and the delayed opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the cross-border festivities are taking on a different meaning for some.

Jason Lidkea is a lifelong Windsor resident. He says Trump's actions have changed the feeling of this year's fireworks.

"Ever since Trump took office, the mood has changed," said Lidkea. "I love Canada, I'm a very proud Canadian — I think most Canadians are. And the antics he's pulled in the Oval Office over there is quite ridiculous as far as I'm concerned."

He says that that the fireworks are a good way to distract from it.

"I think [during] the fireworks, everyone puts that aside. They come together as family and friends, and everyone enjoys their time.

Windsor resident Rick Del Col says he was at the very first fireworks in 1959, and doesn't believe the current tensions are reflective of Windsor and Detroit's relationship.

"I mean, 6,000 people crossing to work in Detroit every day. You can't discount that, you know?" he said. "But then again, that's Windsor and Detroit. It has nothing to do with Texas, or California. It's Windsor-Detroit, and Michigan-Ontario."

His wife Judy Del Col wants the cross-border relationship to be like it used to.

"I'm just hoping that we maintain our friendships and our families and our connections," said Del Col.

Patti and Richard Lent are from Portage, Mich., about 10 kilometres south of Kalamazoo. They say they're optimistic that tensions will ease up between both sides.

"We love each other. It's the people, we just have to get past the politics," said Patti.

"When the administration changes on the United States, there's plenty of room for improvement," said Rick.

The Lents say they've never seen the fireworks in-person, but hope the event will bridge the gap between both sides.

"I think [the fireworks] are a great idea. Everyone loves fireworks!" said Patti.

Justin Escoto is a reporter at CBC Windsor. He is a graduate of Carleton University, and previously worked at the Canadian Press and the Charlatan. He enjoys covering music, history, and pro wrestling. You can reach him at justin.escoto@cbc.ca.