A New Community Landmark: Violet King Park

HSCA’s Heritage Committee is excited to share an initiative currently in the early planning stages: naming the Sunnyside bus loop park “Violet King Park.”

This initiative honours a figure whose life represents inclusion, resilience, and leadership. The park will be a welcoming community space that also shares an important story—one that shaped Canadian history and continues to inspire today.

HSCA’s Heritage Committee is working closely with partners, the City, and the community to make this vision a reality. More details will be shared as plans progress, and we look forward to involving our neighbours throughout this process.

about Violet King

Violet King was a pioneer who made Canadian history. She became the first Black woman lawyer in Canada, breaking racial and gender barriers at a time when opportunities for women—especially Black women—were extremely limited.

Her life’s work centered on justice, equality, and social change. By naming this park in her honour, we aim to celebrate her achievements and ensure that her story inspires generations to come.

How You Can Support

While this project is still in its early stages, donations are being accepted to help bring this vision to life. Contributions will support planning, design, and the creation of interpretive elements that share Violet King’s story within the park.

A portion of funds will help with project administration, and any excess will go toward HSCA’s food security programs for local families.
Tax receipts will be issued for all donations.

If you’d like to contribute, please select “Violet King Park” in the CanadaHelps form on our donation form below.

Learn More About Violet King

Discover the inspiring story of Violet King, Canada’s first Black woman lawyer and a trailblazer for justice and equality. Explore these resources to learn more about her life and impact:

1. Building Social and Community Life: Violet King and Theodore King
   This blog post delves into Violet King's contributions to social and community life, highlighting her role alongside Theodore King in shaping their community.

2. February is Black History Month in Canada: Violet King
   An insightful article commemorating Violet King's achievements during Black History Month, emphasizing her groundbreaking role in Canadian legal history.

3. Violet King: The Professional Trailblazer Who Broke Down Barriers
   A compelling video that narrates Violet King's journey as the first Black woman lawyer in Canada, shedding light on her challenges and triumphs.