Honouring Black History Month with New Corktown Laneways

On February 1, I was joined by the Corktown community to unveil two new laneway namings and commemorate the first day of Black History Month 2024 - two seemingly unrelated events that were, in this case, meaningfully intertwined.

The north-south laneway running parallel to Bright Street and St. Paul Street was named to honour abolitionist and performer Henry Box Brown. Brown was an enslaved man who found freedom by shipping himself to Philadelphia in a wooden box, earning himself the “Box” in Henry Box Brown. After his liberation he turned his story into a stage show and panorama that he performed in the Northeastern United States and England. Brown and his family eventually settled here in Toronto, where he died on June 15, 1897.

Intersecting Henry Box Brown Lane at its north end is the newly named North Star Way. This laneway commemorates the journeys of the estimated 100,000 people who escaped slavery via the Underground Railroad. As slaves travelled north under the cover of night, they used the North Star to guide their way.

I am proud to unveil these laneways as a lasting reminder of our history and to inspire a more just and equitable future. Black History Month is not just about looking back; it’s also about looking forward and recognizing the challenges that lie ahead.

I would like to acknowledge Adam Wynne, Coralina Lemos and Pat (Pancheta) Barnett - three community members and heritage champions without whom this project would not have been possible.

Latest posts

Public Markets Week: June 15 to 21

Enjoy neighbourhood markets and guided tours, food tastings, live music and children’s activities at markets across the city. Showing your support for public markets is a great way to love local and strengthen neighbourhood vibrancy. Toronto Centre has a number of public markets, including the new Melanin Market at Sankofa Square. Read on to learn all about where to attend these fantastic events!

Regent Park Residents: Vote on $26.8 Million in Community Benefits!

From June 14 to August 1, 2025, Regent Park residents will vote on how to invest $26.8 million in community benefits over the next 10-15 years. This funding is made possible by Tridel, Toronto Community Housing’s (TCHC) developer partner for Phases 4-5 of the Regent Park revitalization. You’ll be able to learn about the three Community Benefits Packages and find helpful information at: RP4and5.ca and torontohousing.ca/regentparkvotes.

Apply to the TTC Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit

Help Shape the Future of Accessible Transit in Toronto! The TTC is looking for new members to join its Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit (ACAT). This group plays a central role in advising the TTC Board and staff, ensuring our transit services are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all. Apply now before the August 12 deadline!

Honouring Black History Month with New Corktown Laneways

Latest posts

Public Markets Week: June 15 to 21

Regent Park Residents: Vote on $26.8 Million in Community Benefits!

Apply to the TTC Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit

Take action

Connect with Chris

City Hall Office

Constituency Office