Presentations, Introductions and Announcements

Mayor Chow reminded Council of how Beverley was responsible for changing the designation of "Alderman" to "Councillor", making this position inclusive to all. Mayor Chow recounted her time working with Beverley at the Urban Alliance on Race Relations acknowledging how Beverley diligently fought for inclusivity in education. Mayor Chow then spoke on the many achievements and awards that Beverley received during her career, such as the African Canadian Achievement Award for Excellence in Politics, being named in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Roll of Honour, the Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee Medal, and being appointed as a member of the Order of Ontario and of the Order of Canada. Mayor Chow remarked that the City will always be indebted to Beverly and her family for all that she accomplished. Councillor Morley, during the morning session of the meeting, addressed the family of the late Dr. Beverley Salmon and stated that, as the second Black woman to be elected to Toronto Municipal Council, she had Beverley to thank for paving the way. Mayor Chow, during the morning session of the meeting, thanked Deputy Mayor McKelvie for her dedication to the people of Toronto and stepping up when the City needed her. Mayor Chow expressed her excitement for returning to City Council, acknowledging the passion the other Councillors hold, and the expectations that the people of Toronto have of them. Mayor Chow thanked members of Council for their welcome. Councillor Morley, during the morning session of the meeting, acknowledged the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of the Bahamas with its rich history and strong, resilient citizens. Councillor Morley cited the Bahamian motto "Forward Upward Onward Together", and expressed her hope that, with the new Mayor, City Council will embody this sentiment. Councillor Malik, during the afternoon session of the meeting, welcomed the students taking part in the Leader in Training program at the Scadding Court Community Centre, in the neighbourhood of Alexandra Park, who were present in the Chamber. Councillor Malik remarked that the Leader in Training provides the opportunity for young people to develop and strengthen leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Councillor Malik expressed that she is looking forward to see how they continue to let their light shine bright. July 20, 2023 Councillor Pasternak, during the morning session of the meeting, advised Members of Council about the amazing number of volunteers and donations that has been coming in to help the various refugees and newcomers. Councillor Pasternak thanked Pastor Andrew James, his wife Bridget James, Michael Mostyn, Chief Executive Officer, B'nai Brith Canada for all their support in helping the refugees. Councillor Pasternak acknowledged the faith groups and human rights groups for helping in getting people off the sidewalks and into a safe housing environment. Councillor Cheng, during the morning session of the meeting, thanked all the Council participants in Snack Share TO, which included Councillor Bravo, Councillor Morley, Councillor Perruzza, Councillor Malik, Councillor Saxe, Councillor Crawford, Councillor Myers, Councillor Pasternak, Deputy Mayor McKelvie, and Councillor Fletcher. Councillor Cheng reminded Council that Snack Share TO came into being when snacks to Council halted and it was the Councillors who volunteered to bring in nourishment and encouragement to all the fellow Councillors. Councillor Cheng invited other Councillors to participate in the future. Councillor Malik, during the morning session of the meeting, advised Members of Council that the Canadian Women's National Soccer Team began its quest that day for the 2023 FIFA World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Councillor Malik acknowledged the Gold Medal they earned during the Tokyo Olympics and their determination to fight for equal pay. Councillor Malik wished the team captain and all-time leading goal scorer, Christine Sinclair, and the whole national team a successful tournament.