Woodstock City Council is considering changing the name of the August Civic Holiday to honour a Canadian hero

1047.ca
April 11, 2016

The City of Woodstock is looking into the idea of renaming the Civic Holiday to Terry Fox Day.

The holiday which takes place on the first Monday in August, is known for having different names in different municipalities: in Burlington it's known as Joseph Brant Day, Vaughn has Benjamin Vaughan Day, and in Toronto it's known as Simcoe Day.

Councillor Jerry Acchione tells Heart FM why he supports changing the name to honour the Canadian hero.

"Everybody knows who Terry Fox is. He has really put cancer awareness on the map. This being cancer awareness month, perfect time to bring this forward and this is a way that the city of Woodstock can help that message along."

The idea has been put forward to staff for a report, so they can discuss any other name ideas for the holiday. Acchione adds the city would like to hear the public's thoughts about Terry Fox Day.

"We are looking for the public's input on this; make sure it's something everybody does agree with. If not we want to know why."