In a momentous occasion marking the 100th anniversary of East York’s incorporation, Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed March 24th as Agnes Macphail Day in Toronto. The proclamation coincided with the presentation of the 2024 Agnes Macphail Award to local community leader Susan Scandiffio for her exceptional dedication to East York’s residents.
Established by the former East York Council in 1994, the Agnes Macphail Award honors individuals who embody the values of Canada’s first female Member of Parliament, Agnes Macphail. These values include advocacy for women’s rights, fairness for seniors, criminal justice and penal reform, peace promotion, and support for housing, healthcare, and education.
At the ceremony, Mayor Chow commended Scandiffio’s remarkable contributions, stating, “Through her many contributions and tireless hours of volunteering and community mobilization, Susan Scandiffio teaches us all the importance of working for the good of all.”
Councilor Brad Bradford of Beaches-East York praised Scandiffio’s perseverance, acknowledging her significant impact on the community. “Susan Scandiffio is known to her community as a person who never backs down when it comes to championing causes that matter,” Bradford remarked.
Scandiffio’s initiatives have touched various aspects of community welfare. Notably, she founded the Thorncliffe Food Collaborative, which aids over 2,000 individuals in Thorncliffe Park and Flemingdon Park. Additionally, her Fill a Purse for a Sister Campaign provides essential items to domestic violence shelters and support services.
Reflecting on the honor, Scandiffio expressed gratitude and credited the collective effort of the community. “I am truly in awe of what she has achieved and congratulate Susan and her family, friends, and neighbors who’ve stood behind her,” said Councilor Bradford.
The award ceremony also served as a platform to celebrate East York’s rich history. A special web exhibit by Toronto Archives, previewed at the event, commemorates the borough’s 100th anniversary. It will be accessible on the Toronto Archives webpage in the coming weeks.
The recognition of Susan Scandiffio through the Agnes Macphail Award exemplifies the spirit of community service and underscores the importance of local leadership in shaping Toronto’s neighborhoods.
For more information about the Agnes Macphail Award and Susan Scandiffio’s profile, visit the City of Toronto’s Awards webpage.
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