Item - 2025.NY21.16

North York Community Council:

1. Directed the General Manager, Parks and Recreation, and the General Manager, Transportation Services, to review opportunities to name or rename an existing or planned location, such as a park, street, trail or other landmark in honour of the late Michael Mostyn and report back to North York Community Council with options by end of 2025.

On February 4th, 2025, the City of Toronto was deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Mostyn, 50, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Michael was born into a family strongly rooted in Jewish values. This upbringing was key in his journey to become an admirable and vocal leader in the community. He earned his law degree at the University of Western Ontario in 1999, and began to practice with his father Alan at Mostyn & Mostyn. In 2006, he joined B’nai Brith Canada, an international human rights organization. Michael was recognized for his success and outstanding contributions to protecting civil rights and fighting antisemitism, earning a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. He then rose to the position of CEO in 2014. His work at B’nai Brith shaped and influenced the Government of Canada’s strategy in combating hate and defending human rights. Michael was successful in his efforts for provinces and cities to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism. He was also a regular voice for the Jewish community at Toronto City Hall, whether it be making deputations on important issues, joining at times of Jewish holidays, Israel flag raisings, or Holocaust remembrance. Michael was a source of inspiration to thousands of Torontonians and Canadians. His positive impact and advocacy for the Jewish and wider community will always be remembered.

Naming a suitable site after Michael Mostyn in York Centre would be a fitting tribute to a man who always fought for the rights others, and who made countless contributions to the City of Toronto. This would be sincerely appreciated by his family, friends, and colleagues, and would allow his legacy as a human rights champion to live on