A park in Manotick is being renamed after Governor General Mary Simon. Ottawa City Council unanimously approved a motion by Rideau-Jock Coun. David Brown to change Whitewood Avenue Park’s name to Mary Simon Park. “Mary Simon has been a tireless advocate for Indigenous rights, education and reconciliation which has strengthened relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities across Canada,” part of the motion reads. Simon was sworn in as the 30th Governor General of Canada on July 26, 2021. She is the first Indigenous person to hold the position. Whitewood Avenue Park is located on Whitewood Avenue near Bankfield Road and Colony Heights Road. Brown’s motion calls for the installation of an appropriate stand and plaque displaying the name and including a brief history of Simon’s contributions, and that all costs related to the production and installation of the stand, plaque and subsequent event be funded through the mayor’s office. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe seconded the motion.
