WHEREAS this month we celebrate the deep history, rich culture and vital contributions of Black Canadians in helping build and shape the socioeconomic, political and cultural fabric of our city. The City of Toronto proudly became the first municipality to proclaim Black History Month in 1979.
Black History Month invites us to reflect on the enduring achievements, strength, resilience and brilliance of Canadians of African descent. Moreover, it provides a time to reaffirm our commitment to stand up against systemic anti-Black racism and partner with Black communities to advance equal rights, opportunities and equity.
Educating ourselves about the historic discrimination and marginalization endured by Black Canadians can help inform efforts to address anti-Black racism and support effective action.
In June 2023, Toronto City Council approved the development of a renewed 10-Year Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism. This plan aims to deepen cultural and systemic change in Toronto and to support improved outcomes for Black Torontonians into the next decade. To ensure the decisions and actions are relevant and effective, it will be built on the leadership and recommendations of Toronto’s diverse Black communities supported by residents, organizations, diverse community voices, staff and grassroots ideas.
The City of Toronto’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit continues to carry out these initiatives and align its goals with those of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, 2025-2034, recently adopted by the United Nations. Working together helps build a welcoming city that champions diversity, equity and human rights for all who call Toronto home.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 2026 as “Black History Month” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS during the month of February we celebrate Chinese Heritage Month and the Chinese community, whose roots in our city can be traced back to the 1870s.
The Chinese Canadian community has played an instrumental role in helping build and shape the city and we acknowledge the community for its many contributions.
Chinese Heritage Month also coincides with the celebration of the Lunar New Year, one of the most significant traditional holidays for the community symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and the welcoming of spring.
Chinese Heritage Month offers a valuable opportunity to learn more about the rich culture, heritage and traditions of the Chinese community.
The City of Toronto acknowledges the Chinese community in Toronto and its cultural, economic, political and social contributions that form an important part of the City’s motto: “Diversity Our Strength.”
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 2026 as “Chinese Heritage Month” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS this month we raise awareness of Multifocal Motor Neuropathy (MMN), a rare disorder that
can cause progressive muscle weakness, most often affecting the arms, hands or legs. MMN, which
affects individuals of any gender or ethnic background, can limit mobility and daily function and
may require ongoing medical care and long-term supports.
There is currently no cure for MMN. Continued research, timely assessment and early diagnosis can
support better management and help reduce the risk of worsening symptoms over time.
The City of Toronto recognizes the contributions of patients, caregivers, healthcare providers,
researchers and community organizations. Their work strengthens public understanding, connects
residents to information and supports and advances efforts to improve quality of life for those
affected by MMN.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 2026 as “Multifocal Motor Neuropathy Month” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS World Interfaith Harmony Week provides an opportunity for Toronto residents and community organizations to learn about diverse faith and belief communities, and to take part in respectful dialogue and community connection.
World Interfaith Harmony Week builds on the work of the Common Word Initiative, launched in 2007, which promotes dialogue grounded in mutual understanding and respect among people of all faiths, and those who do not practice a specific faith.
World Interfaith Harmony Week aligns with Toronto’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusion and civic participation across communities.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 1 – 7, 2026 as “World Interfaith Harmony Week” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS each year on this day, we honour the music and legacy of Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley, and his role in bringing messages of love, acceptance and social change to audiences around the world.
Bob Marley is acknowledged as one of the pioneers of reggae music, helping to popularize the genre internationally. He began his career with his band, Bob Marley and the Wailers, blending American style R&B with Caribbean music traditions from Jamaica such as mento, ska, and rocksteady. This blending of musical influences helped introduce reggae to broader audiences, propelling Marley to super stardom. He toured the world, including performances in Toronto at venues such as Massey Hall and Maple Leaf Gardens.
Bob Marley is recognized as one of the most celebrated artists of the 20th century, whose legacy continues to inspire and uplift millions worldwide.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 6, 2026 as “Bob Marley Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS Toronto residents proudly join others around the world in celebrating the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympic Games, taking place until February 22, 2026.
Team Canada, represented by 206 athletes, will compete among the world’s best from 93 countries in 16 sports, across more than 110 medal events.
Many of these athletes representing Team Canada were born in Toronto, live here, train here or have strong connections to local communities, and their achievements are a source of pride for residents across the city. Toronto looks forward to cheering for Team Canada throughout the Games.
The Olympic Games bring people together through sport and highlight the dedication, skill and teamwork of athletes representing Canada on an international stage.
We extend heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Team Canada as they compete at the Olympic Games. Go Team Canada!
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 7, 2026 as “Team Canada Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today we raise awareness of 211, a nationwide service that connects people to information and referrals for a range of government, health and social services in their communities.
The service connects residents to supports including housing, food access, mental health care, financial assistance and more.
In Toronto, 211 is a free and confidential service, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, funded and supported by the City of Toronto and United Way Greater Toronto.
The service is available by phone in more than 200 languages. Support is also available online and through text, chat and email with service in English and French.
Thank you to the staff, volunteers and partners who deliver and support 211, and help connect residents to services and information.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 11, 2026, as “211 Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today we observe the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Trans, and Two Spirit People (MMIWG2S+), and recognize the profound loss and ongoing harm experienced by families, survivors and Indigenous communities across Turtle Island.
This day of action originated in Vancouver, British Columbia, as a memorial for Cheryl Ann Joe, a Salish woman from the Shíshálh Nation, murdered in 1992, and calls on people to remember those who are missing and those who have been killed, and to support efforts towards truth, accountability and justice. Her family and community gathered in her memory at the Strawberry Ceremony; to seek answers and these gatherings continue across Canada, including the Strawberry Ceremony held in Toronto.
The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls concluded that the violence amounts to a race-based genocide, issued 231 Calls for Justice, and identified systemic drivers of this violence, including colonialism, racism, misogyny and discriminatory practices, requiring coordinated action across governments, institutions and communities.
Within its municipal jurisdiction, the City of Toronto supports efforts to strengthen community safety, improve access to culturally safe and trauma informed services, address discrimination within City systems and services and work in partnership with Indigenous communities and organizations. Today reminds us that this crisis requires collective responsibility.
The City is committed to advancing this work with transparency, accountability, and collaboration with Indigenous partners to improve access to culturally safe supports, enhance community safety approaches, and ensure City staff receive training on anti racism, anti violence, and the history and impacts of colonialism.
All residents of Toronto are called upon to learn the true history of this land, confront racism and discrimination in daily life, support Indigenous led work, and speak out against violence in all its forms.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
February 14, 2026, as “National Day of Action Honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Trans, and Two Spirit People (MMIWG2S+)” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS this month we recognize Toronto Crime Stoppers and its collaborative partnership with communities, the media and Toronto Police Services to make Toronto a safer city for everyone.
Toronto Crime Stoppers offers crime prevention and awareness campaigns to alert the public to potential criminal activity. The organization takes a collaborative approach and channels resources and funds into the community it serves to help improve community safety across Toronto.
The City of Toronto acknowledges with gratitude, Toronto Crime Stoppers’ valued work in our city that prioritizes the safety of residents and neighbourhoods across the city.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 2026 as “Crime Stoppers Month” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS this month we celebrate Tamil Heritage and the community in Toronto, which is home to one of the largest Tamil diasporas in the world.
This month provides an opportunity to learn more about Tamil culture, heritage and traditions.
During Tamil Heritage Month, Tamils around the world gather to celebrate Thai Pongal, one of the most important festivals in the Tamil community, celebrated to give thanks for an abundant harvest.
The City of Toronto acknowledges with gratitude the cultural, economic, political and social contributions of Toronto’s Tamil community, that form part of Toronto’s motto: “Diversity Our Strength.”
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 2026 as “Tamil Heritage Month” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS this week, we celebrate emergency shelter workers and homelessness service workers, acknowledging the central role they play in delivering Toronto’s 24-hour homelessness services including shelters, respite sites, warming centres, drop-in programs, and outreach.
Toronto’s shelter system serves a range of equity-deserving groups, including those who are unhoused, seniors, low-income households, people with disabilities, the Black community, Indigenous peoples, refugees and refugee claimants, the 2SLGBTQ+ community as well as women, and youth.
Emergency shelter and homelessness service workers carry out this essential work with resilience, professionalism, and compassion, often in complex and high-pressure environments. Their efforts help ensure that people experiencing homelessness have access to safe, dignified, and high-quality shelter, along with wrap-around supports that promote health, stability, and pathways to permanent housing. This work takes place 24 hours a day, seven days a week across approximately 100 shelter locations and in outdoor spaces throughout Toronto, in all weather conditions, and frequently under demanding circumstances.
The City of Toronto acknowledges with gratitude the valuable contributions of all emergency shelter workers and homelessness service workers in our city, who administer vital services and programs to strengthen our communities and uphold the dignity, safety and well-being of Toronto residents.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 19 – 25, 2026 as “Emergency Shelter and Homelessness Service Worker Appreciation Week” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today we recognize and celebrate the accomplishments and legacy of the Honourable Lincoln Alexander, a Toronto-born human rights trailblazer and champion of equity, diversity and inclusion.
Lincoln Alexander held many important roles as a community leader, the first Black Member of Parliament, the first Black Cabinet Minister and Chair of the Ontario Workers’ Compensation Board. He used his work to meaningfully engage with the community, speak out against institutional and systemic racism and promote equal rights for everyone.
On September 20, 1985, Lincoln Alexander was appointed the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, becoming the first Black Canadian to serve in a vice-regal position in Canada. His mandate included fighting racism, advancing youth issues and advocating for seniors. He visited hundreds of communities and schools and thousands of events in support of his work. In 1992, Lincoln Alexander’s accomplishments and contributions were recognized with the Companion to the Order of Canada.
Today, the City of Toronto is proud to honour Lincoln Alexander’s lasting impact on our city, province and country.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 21, 2026 as “Lincoln Alexander Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today on the World Day for African and Afrodescendant Culture we recognize and celebrate the many diverse and vibrant cultures of the African continent and the African Diasporas in our city and around the world.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) first adopted January 24 as the World Day for African and Afrodescendant Culture in 2019. The date coincides with a milestone date: January 24, 2006, when the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance was adopted by the Heads of State and Government of the African Union.
While we celebrate the diverse heritage and rich culture of people of African descent, we also acknowledge that Black and Afrodescendant communities continue to experience systemic racism and discrimination. The City of Toronto is committed to advancing social justice, eradicating racism and intolerance, and promoting human rights for the diverse communities that call our city home.
The City of Toronto continues to prioritize equity through the advancement of a 10-year Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism and is committed to working with Black leaders, Black-led organizations and businesses, and diverse Black communities to help build a city that is fully inclusive and accessible for all residents.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 24, 2026 as “World Day for African and Afrodescendant Culture” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today we raise awareness of Kawasaki Disease (KD), the leading cause of sudden acquired heart disease in children under the age of five. Approximately 550 Canadian children will be affected by this rare disease annually.
Early medical intervention, within the first 10 days of symptoms, may reduce heart complications and improve the chances of recovery without long-term complications. Approximately 25 percent of children living with KD will develop permanent damage to the heart.
By raising awareness of KD, we can support children and families impacted by the disease and highlight the need for early diagnosis and treatment. The Hospital for Sick Children is at the forefront of Kawasaki Disease research worldwide.
The City of Toronto acknowledges organizations that are committed to providing support and resources for the well-being of Toronto residents. Education, fundraising and support help improve the health of our community.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 26, 2026 as “Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we remember and honour the over six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and listen to the words of survivors, to ensure we never forget this horrific time in history.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day is marked on the date that the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp was liberated on January 27, 1945. As we reflect on atrocities of the Holocaust, we stand with Toronto’s Jewish communities and reaffirm our commitment against intolerance, hatred and antisemitism.
Antisemitism continues to exist today and must be confronted in its many forms and wherever it occurs, whether they are individual acts or systemic efforts. Intolerance and hate have no place in our city.
The City of Toronto’s motion, “Keeping Toronto Safe from Hate” supports the well-being and safety of all residents by ensuring the City takes proactive actions to combat all forms of hate, intolerance and discrimination including antisemitism.
The Toronto for All campaigns also continues to generate dialogue among Toronto residents and reaffirms our city’s resolve to say “no” to all forms of discrimination and racism, including antisemitism.
Toronto’s Jewish communities form an important part of the rich, culturally diverse mosaic of Toronto. As we work together to build a welcoming city for everyone, it is up to all of us to help create inclusive places that build allyship, trust and understanding among all residents.
We reaffirm our commitment to being a city that promotes human rights, stands for peace and is united in our shared values. Toronto is a city that embraces and welcomes inclusion, respect for diversity and pluralism. We are stronger when we work together to build a just and caring city for all residents.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim
January 27, 2026 as “International Holocaust Remembrance Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today we recognize Data Privacy Day to raise awareness of the importance of privacy and reaffirm the City of Toronto’s commitment to protecting personal information.
Privacy is a human right and plays a key role in a free and democratic society.
The City of Toronto is entrusted to collect and use personal information to provide vital public services, and it does so in compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All City of Toronto employees have a role to play in ensuring privacy is a priority and a right.
New digital services and technologies pose new opportunities and new threats to institutions and individuals’ privacy. The City of Toronto is committed to safeguarding the privacy and personal information of the people it serves through training and education, established policies and procedures, technical measures, and good governance.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim January 28, 2026 as “Data Privacy Day” in the City of Toronto.
WHEREAS today on the anniversary of the mosque attack at Centre culturel islamique de Québec (Islamic Cultural Centre of Québec City) we remember the six people who were killed and the 19 people who were injured while gathering for evening prayers and recognize the lasting impact of this act of violence on individuals and communities across Canada.
We stand with Toronto’s Muslim communities and reaffirm our commitment to combatting Islamophobia.
The City of Toronto’s motion, “Keeping Toronto Safe from Hate” supports the well-being and safety of all residents by ensuring the City takes proactive actions to combat all forms of hate, including Islamophobia.
The Toronto for All campaign continues to generate dialogue among Toronto residents and reaffirms our city’s resolve to say “no” to all forms of discrimination and racism including Islamophobia.
Still, we must do more as a city to eradicate fear, hatred and intolerance. We reaffirm our commitment to being a city that promotes human rights, stands for peace and is united in our shared values. Toronto is home to people of many faiths, cultures, and backgrounds, and the contributions of Muslim residents, alongside those of all communities, are part of the city’s rich social, cultural, and civic life, reflecting our shared belief that Diversity is Our Strength.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim January 29, 2026 as “Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia” in the City of Toronto.