Burlington asks residents to help rename Ryerson Park

Burlington is looking to rename Ryerson Park and is asking residents for help.

"The new name must reflect equity, diversity and inclusion consistent with today's standards," the city said on its website.

Staff will consider suggestions and will recommend a new name by November, it adds.

The search for a new name follows a unanimous vote from the Halton District School Board to rename Ryerson Public School, which is right next to the park on Woodview Road. City council held its own vote and decided to change the park's name too.

"This was done out of respect for Indigenous residents in our community, particularly following the recent discovery of mass graves at former residential schools," reads a notice from the city, which says that Indigenous names for the park are welcome.

The city goes on to explain that the park and school were both named in honour of Egerton Ryerson and his contributions to Ontario's education system.

"However, Ryerson was also instrumental in the design of Canada's residential school system," the notice adds.

A step toward reconciliation

Burlington is not the first to rename a facility or school tagged with Ryerson's title.

The Toronto university that shared Ryerson's name is anticipating the findings of a task force that's been weighing what to do with the legacy of its namesake.

Hamilton's public school board has also voted to find a new name for Ryerson Elementary School, while the future of the recreation centre that's attached to it and shares its name has been referred to the city's facility-naming subcommittee.

Once finalists are selected, residents will be able to vote on a new name for the park. Then the favourites will be handed over to council for final approval.

The city said its Indigenous community members should be able to enjoy public spaces without being reminded of residential schools.

"Renaming our city park is one step we can take toward reconciliation with our Indigenous residents."