Toronto seeks public input on which street to name after Nelson Mandela
Posted June 19, 2014 4:28 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Torontonians are being given the chance to help honour the legacy of the late South African President Nelson Mandela by picking which street in Toronto will bear his name.
The City of Toronto is seeking public input on the issue after city council unanimously voted in April to name a street after the Nobel Peace Prize winner who was jailed for 27 years for protesting apartheid in South Africa.
Mayor Ford made headlines around the world for mistakenly voting against the motion. He later owned up to the gaffe and was allowed to re-vote in favour of the proposal.
Mandela became the country’s first black president after his release and became a symbol of fearless perseverance in the face of racial inequality.
“Nelson Mandela is recognized around the world for his heroism, dedication and commitment to his country, and his love for people of every race and creed,” Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly said in a release. “The naming of a street after Nelson Mandela is a positive way for Toronto to honour the legacy of this great man.”
The city has narrowed down its decision to five streets (below) that have a connection to Mandela. Members of the public can learn more about the significance of the streets and voting and selection process here http://www.toronto.ca/mandela.
- Queen Street West from Yonge Street to University Avenue:
- Shuter Street, from River Street to Parliament Street:
- Gerrard Street East, from Jarvis Street to Yonge Street:
- Bathurst Street, from College Street to Herrick Street:
- University Avenue, from Front Street West to College Street:
The city says the ceremonial street would be marked by new signage, but the official street name would remain and addresses would be unchanged.
Mandela died at the age of 95 on December 5, 2013.
