Toronto marked the seventh anniversary of the deadly Yonge Street van attack during the Toronto City Council meeting on April 23, with a moving tribute led by Mayor Olivia Chow.
Mayor Chow announced that Canterbury Place, a street in North York near where the tragedy occurred, will be ceremonially renamed “Heroes’ Way,” to honour the victims and the nearly 2,000 first responders who helped in the aftermath and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“On this day, April 23rd, seven years ago, a horrific, deliberate act of hateful violence claimed the lives of 11 innocent people on Yonge Street in North York,” said Chow. “Nine of these lives taken were women. Fifteen more people were critically injured, one of whom ultimately died. These were beloved members of our community whose lives were cut short by the senseless violence. Our hearts go out to their families and loved ones today, and every day we remember.”
The attacker, Alek Minassian, drove a rented van onto the sidewalk near North York Civic Centre, targeting pedestrians. He later told police he was motivated by the misogynistic “incel” ideology.
“It was the first warm spring day after a long dreary winter, which meant that many people were out walking on Young Street, and the pain and shock of that day remains etched in our hearts,” said city councillor Lily Cheng. “Yet in that quiet darkness something beautiful emerged. A community that chose love, resilience and solidarity. We honour all of the first responders.”
Councillor Cheng, who represents Willowdale, said she will introduce a motion to create a permanent memorial in the community.
“The signs will forever mark the place where swift and selfless action brought safety and comfort to our neighbourhood during its darkest moment,” she said.
A design competition will be launched to select the memorial.
“Let us remember Toronto Strong — and Willowdale Strong — that emerged from this tragedy,” Cheng said.
City councillor Chris Moise, who was in the area during the tragedy and performed CPR on two people, also spoke at the city council meeting in support of the motion.
“It’s a day that’s etched in my mind, and anyone who witnessed it will not forget, ” he said. “But Toronto Strong.”
