Thousands of people showed up to celebrate the grand opening of Sankofa Square in Toronto, after it was officially renamed from Yonge-Dundas Square in December 2023.
Discussions on renaming Dundas Street and the square began in 2020 when 14,000 Torontonians signed a petition, saying they no longer wanted to honor Henry Dundas, who back in the 18th century reportedly played a role in upholding the transatlantic slave trade.
Members of the city’s African diaspora say the renaming, rebranding, and revitalization of the square represents an important showing of reconciliation and inclusivity.
“I’m very proud as a Ghanaian,” said Juliet Opoku, Vice President of the Ghanaian Canadian Association of Ontario. “This is monumental for our children to be able to see that there’s still hope out there for us,”
Saturday’s grand opening fell on International Sankofa Day, a commemoration of the slave trade and its abolition recognized each year by the United Nations.
“Sankofa means go back and fresh, go back and take. So look at what has happened in the past. We can look at it to help us inform better future decisions,” said Opoku.
Those on the square’s board say they’re honored to be a part of creating something that represents a place for all.
“I think our biggest piece is around rebranding the space and building a square that is accessible, inclusive, that celebrates community, culture, and our city at its very best,” said Simon Wong, member of the Sankofa Square Board of Management.
Organizers also issued a survey to city residents asking what they wanted to see offered in the square moving forward.