The 52

Between operating a boarding home for Indigenous youth in Toronto and playing a foundational role at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, Verna Johnston’s community leadership has shaped generations.

Community Organizer and Author | 1909-1996

Susan Bailey, head nurse of the Emigrant Hospital, was a front-line worker and one of the first healthcare professionals to respond to the typhus epidemic in 1847. Bailey herself contracted the fever in her dedicated service to her patients.

Nurse | 19th Century

Slova Greenberg was a foundational advocate for healthcare, women’s empowerment, and elder care in Toronto. Today, her impact is seen through the success of Mount Sinai Hospital, the Baycrest Centre, and more.

Healthcare Advocate and Community Organizer | Early 20th Century

Rosemary Sadlier’s commitment to the recognition of Black History continues to shape the education around and commemoration of Black histories in Canada.

Social Justice Advocate, Researcher, and Author | Born in 1955

Rosalie Silberman Abella was the first Jewish woman appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada. She founded the concept of “employment equity” and shaped the first decision made under the 1989 Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Canadian Supreme Court Justice | Born in 1946

Mary Ann Shadd Cary dedicated her life to the abolition of slavery, desegregated education, and women’s rights.

Abolitionist, Educator, and Publisher | 1823-1893

Lillian H. Smith, the first children’s librarian in the British Empire, established guidelines for the inclusion and classification of children’s literature in Toronto libraries.

Librarian | 1887-1983

Laura Bulger, a Portuguese immigrant, was one of the first teachers of her heritage to work at the Toronto District School Board. Her passion for her culture shone through in her support of other immigrants, especially children, as she helped them maintain a sense of identity through the Portuguese language.

Teacher and Portuguese Language & Culture Advocate | 1939-2015

Kit Coleman was the world’s first female war correspondent. She delivered ground-breaking coverage on the Spanish-American War and was the first president of the Canadian Women’s Press Club, an organization which offered support to further women’s journalism careers.

Journalist and War Correspondent | 1856-1915

Born with quadriplegia, Judith Snow was Canada’s first person to receive individualized care funding from the Government. Her activism enabled an additional 600+ people in Ontario to receive funding.

Independent Living Advocate, Community Organizer, and Disability Justice Activist | 1949-2015

Anishinaabe Elder, Josephine Mandamin, was a revolutionary leader in the fight to protect water rights for Indigenous peoples.

Anishinabek Nation Chief Water Commissioner and Water Rights Advocate | 1942-2019

Jean Lumb was the first Chinese-Canadian woman to receive the Order of Canada in 1976, honouring her efforts in changing immigration laws and helping save Chinatown.

Restaurateur and Community Organizer | 1919-2002

Jane Jacobs devoted her life’s works to fighting for cities that are designed for people and quality of life. Her advocacy and academic accomplishments shaped Toronto’s social and physical landscape as we know it.

Urbanist, Author, and Activist | 1916-2006

Cathy Crowe, as one of Canada’s first street nurses, received the Order of Canada in 2018. Her documentaries platform the vulnerable, depicting her advocacy for the health and rights of the homeless.

Nurse and Healthcare Activist | Born in 1952

Bernice Redmon, appointed to the Victorian Order of Nurses in Canada, was a trailblazer in public health as the first Black Canadian nurse. Through her advocacy work, she paved the way for other Black women to work in Ontario hospitals.

Nurse | 1917-1993