The City of Toronto is currently developing a new framework to guide how it commemorates public figures and events in monuments, streets and place names, and Torontonians are being asked to provide their feedback. The framework will help to develop a more equitable, inclusive and community-centred approach to naming and commemoration.
A survey is now live on the City’s website where people can provide input on how the City should name streets, parks and buildings in the future. The online survey is open until Sunday, May 29.
A virtual town hall and panel discussion on the development of the City’s commemorative framework will be held on May 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The discussion will be hosted by Zahra Ebrahim, co-founder of Monumental Projects, and will explore the history of commemoration in Toronto and current efforts to address legacy issues. Everyone is welcome and registration is required.
Along with the public survey, the City will also conduct community conversation circles with equity-deserving groups and youth to seek feedback on the guiding principles for the framework, and additional conversation circles with the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit Partnership and Accountability Circle, the Indigenous Placemaking circle and various historical societies and preservation panels.
Staff will present a report to Executive Committee in July 2022 with a proposed commemorative framework for the City, including guiding principles for the naming and renaming of City assets and other forms of recognition.
More information, including access to the survey and how to register for the virtual public town hall is available on the City’s Recognition Review webpage.
Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.