Sankofa name change approved at heated vote

New report estimates total cost of switch at $1 million

- BEN SPURR

Toronto is forging ahead with plans to rename Yonge-Dundas Square after a heated and emotional meeting of Mayor Olivia Chow's executive committee where both critics and supporters of the proposal made their case.

Chow and her allies voted unanimously to move ahead with the proposal, marking the latest milestone in council's contentious effort to rebrand the downtown plaza over its namesake Henry Dundas' purported role in delaying the abolition of slavery in the 18th century.

"This is a good news story. This is a good day," said Coun. Chris Moise, whose Toronto Centre ward includes the square.

Moise, who is one of the few Black members on Toronto's 26-seat council, said the new name Sankofa Square is a fitting way to honour the contributions of African-Canadian residents. The term derives from a concept from present-day Ghana that means reflecting on and learning from the past.

Although council approved the renaming in a December vote of 19 to two, the report before the committee provided an updated cost estimate for branding, signage and other required work.