Council votes to remove association of Duke of York Blvd. with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

During yesterday’s Council meeting, Mississauga City Council passed a motion to disassociate the name Duke of York Boulevard from former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, reflecting Buckingham Palace’s removal of his titles after allegations of gender-based violence. The motion, moved by Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor John Kovac, includes removing all plaques, honours, and non-critical signage tied to the former Royal on City property.

The boulevard, a road that runs through Mississauga’s downtown core, was named after Mountbatten-Windsor’s role in opening Mississauga’s Civic Centre in 1987. While a name change was discussed, it was recognized that the title of Duke of York has been held by many people for the last 700 years and may be again in the future.

Duke of York Boulevard now becomes a name associated with Canada’s history as a constitutional monarchy, much like other streets across Mississauga and Canada such as King, Queen, Prince and Princess Streets.

Gender-based violence and women abuse

During the meeting, Council also unanimously reaffirmed that gender-based violence and women abuse are an epidemic, echoing Council’s earlier declaration in 2023 and Peel Region’s declaration in the same year. The resolution highlights the urgent need for systemic change, survivor support, and community education. The Council motion also directed staff to report back on enhanced human trafficking countermeasures in Peel Region.

The City of Mississauga is currently collaborating with Peel Region on the annual Break the Silence campaign to raise awareness on family and intimate partner violence. The City will also be doing a flag raising through the Community Recognition Program to recognize victims of gender-based violence on November 24 at 10 a.m.

Quotes

“Today, we have taken important steps to address gender-based violence and thoughtfully reconsider the legacy associated with Duke of York Boulevard.  While we’ve kept the name of the boulevard to avoid significant inconvenience and cost for residents, partners, and businesses who reside on Duke of York Boulevard, we’ve removed all associations with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. As a Council, we’re sending a strong message that we stand against gender-based violence and are dedicated to creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for survivors.”
– Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish

“This motion reflects our strong commitment to supporting victims of gender-based violence and helps address the concerns brought forward by local community groups like Armagh House and Peel Committee Against Women Abuse, Peel Human Trafficking Service Providers Committee and Embrave. Our decision today to disassociate the name Duke of York Boulevard sends a powerful message that prioritizes the voices of survivors. Council has worked hard to build a supportive community and show compassion to those that are survivors. We firmly stand against gender-based violence in Mississauga and throughout Peel Region.”
– Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor John Kovac

Tags

• Council and Committees
• Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)