Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford has pledged to rename Sankofa Square to “Toronto Square” and install a permanent police substation if elected in the upcoming October 2026 municipal election. Bradford argues the space, formerly known as Yonge-Dundas Square, has devolved into an unsafe “wasteland” characterized by open drug use and a lack of family-friendly programming, according to his comments at a June 29, 2026, press conference.
Why is the future of Sankofa Square a campaign issue?
The square serves as a high-profile point of contention regarding city identity and public safety. Bradford, who previously voted in support of the 2023 renaming, now claims he was “misled” by Mayor Olivia Chow regarding the operational changes that would follow the rebrand. He asserts that the current state of the square discourages tourists and families from visiting the area.
In contrast, a spokesperson for Mayor Chow stated that her administration remains focused on broader initiatives to improve affordability and public safety rather than “renaming things.” The mayor has urged other city councillors to prioritize these same issues, according to a statement provided to CTV News.
The name “Sankofa” originates from Ghana. It refers to the act of reflecting on the past to move forward, a concept selected after two years of research and consultation with a committee of Black and Indigenous leaders, residents, and business owners.
How does the proposed plan address safety and funding?
Bradford’s proposal centers on three main pillars: physical security, maintenance, and programming. He intends to establish a permanent police presence modeled after New York City’s substation model. To avoid placing a burden on property taxpayers, he suggests that “iconic” Canadian brands advertising on the square’s screens should fund the police station, expanded mental health supports, and cleaning operations.
The financial stakes of the square’s identity are significant. While the initial cost to rename the site from Yonge-Dundas Square was estimated at roughly $300,000, city officials noted in 2024 that the total could reach $600,000. Bradford indicated he would bypass further expensive consultation processes, describing “Toronto Square” as a “pretty benign” choice.
Historical context of the site
The transition from Yonge-Dundas Square to Sankofa Square was finalized in 2025. This decision followed a petition signed by close to 14,000 residents who objected to the legacy of Henry Dundas, who played a role in delaying the abolition of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Related infrastructure also saw changes, with the adjacent subway stop renamed from Dundas Station to TMU Station, reflecting its proximity to Toronto Metropolitan University.
| Feature | Bradford Proposal | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Square Name | Toronto Square | Sankofa Square |
| Police Presence | Permanent Substation | Not specified |
Public sentiment remains divided. A 2024 survey indicated that an overwhelming majority of residents disapproved of the decision to rename the square.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the next Toronto mayoral election? Voters will head to the polls on Oct. 26, 2026.
- Was the street name also changed? No, while the square and the subway station were renamed, Dundas Street remains unchanged.
- How does Bradford plan to pay for the police substation? He proposes that private advertisers on the square’s screens cover the costs to avoid impact on property taxes.
What do you think about the proposed name change and security measures for the square? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates on the 2026 municipal election.
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