Mississauga Council Removes Association Between Duke of York Boulevard and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
Mississauga Council Duke of York Boulevard motion removes ties to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor while reaffirming gender-based violence as an epidemic.
MISSISSAUGA — Mississauga City Council has voted to formally remove all associations between Duke of York Boulevard and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, following serious allegations of gender-based violence and Buckingham Palace’s earlier decision to strip him of his royal titles.
The decision, passed during Wednesday’s Council meeting, was introduced in a motion by Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor John Kovac. The motion directs the City to remove any plaques, honours, or non-essential signage on City-owned property that previously linked the boulevard to the former Royal.
The street, which runs through Mississauga’s downtown core, was originally named after Mountbatten-Windsor attended the opening of Mississauga’s Civic Centre in 1987. Council noted that although renaming was considered, the title “Duke of York” has been used for centuries and may be used by future members of the Royal Family. As a result, the boulevard will retain its existing name, but its meaning will shift toward representing Canada’s history as a constitutional monarchy — similar to streets named King, Queen, Prince, and Princess in communities across the country.
Council Reaffirms Gender-Based Violence as an Epidemic
During the same meeting, Mississauga Council unanimously reaffirmed that gender-based violence and women abuse are an epidemic — echoing declarations made by both Mississauga and Peel Region in 2023. The renewed resolution emphasizes the need for systemic reform, survivor-focused supports, and broader community education.
Council also directed City staff to report back on enhanced human-trafficking countermeasures, recognizing ongoing concerns across Peel Region.
Mississauga continues to work with Peel Region on its annual Break the Silence campaign to raise awareness of intimate partner and family violence. As part of its Community Recognition Program, the City will raise a flag in honour of victims of gender-based violence on November 24 at 10 a.m.
Mississauga’s decision aligns with a broader municipal trend across Canada, where cities have been reassessing historical naming conventions in light of modern social values and community expectations. While Mississauga chose to keep the street name to avoid financial and logistical impacts on residents and businesses, Council emphasized the importance of ensuring public spaces reflect local values. The motion serves as a reminder that municipal governments play a key role in reinforcing community standards and supporting survivors of violence.
Quotes from City Leadership
Mayor Carolyn Parrish said the steps taken reflect a dual commitment to survivor support and thoughtful civic stewardship:
“Today, we have taken important steps to address gender-based violence and thoughtfully reconsider the legacy associated with Duke of York Boulevard. While we’ve kept the name of the boulevard to avoid significant inconvenience and cost for residents, partners, and businesses who reside on Duke of York Boulevard, we’ve removed all associations with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. As a Council, we’re sending a strong message that we stand against gender-based violence and are dedicated to creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for survivors.”
Deputy Mayor John Kovac, who moved the motion, emphasized the importance of responding to community concerns:
“This motion reflects our strong commitment to supporting victims of gender-based violence and helps address the concerns brought forward by local community groups like Armagh House and Peel Committee Against Women Abuse, Peel Human Trafficking Service Providers Committee and Embrave. Our decision today to disassociate the name Duke of York Boulevard sends a powerful message that prioritizes the voices of survivors. Council has worked hard to build a supportive community and show compassion to those that are survivors. We firmly stand against gender-based violence in Mississauga and throughout Peel Region.”
SOURCE: City of Mississauga — Official News Release, November 20, 2025
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