As many of you know- light has been shed on the fact that the namesake for our beloved Dundas Street (Henry Dundas) was an 18th-century politician who delayed Britain’s abolition of slavery by 15 years. He also aided in the continued subjugation of Indigenous peoples in Canada in his role as British Home Secretary.  In July 2021, Toronto City Council voted 17-7 in favour of a motion to rename the street, along with subway stations, a library, Yonge-Dundas Square, and a number of parks. Although the city is still in the process of deciding the new street name, we feel it is exceptionally important to accurately display our values by removing ‘Dundas’ from the BIA and festival names promptly. Until the street is renamed, the event will be known as Do West Fest.

This change, made prior to the 2022 festival, is significant to us as it marks a new chapter for the neighbourhood, of combined efforts in improving the area with true community spirit in mind.