We, the Black residents of London, Ontario and allies, call on City Council to take immediate action to rename Plantation Road.

The term “plantation” is not a neutral descriptor, it is historically and emotionally tied to the horrors of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the plantation economy, and a legacy of anti-Black violence. For many Black Canadians, the continued presence of this name in our city is a painful reminder of a history rooted in enslavement, colonialism, and systemic oppression.

In 2020, young advocate Lyla Wheeler and hundreds of residents urged the city to change this name, yet it remains. This inaction contradicts the City of London’s 2025–2029 Anti-Black Racism Action Plan, which calls for inclusive, equitable, and welcoming public spaces. It also undermines campaigns like Stop TolerHate, which challenges our community to reject silence in the face of discrimination.

London has a proud history as a haven for Black freedom seekers and descendants of enslaved peoples. We cannot honour that legacy while allowing a name like Plantation Road to stand.

Words matter. Symbols matter. Let's demonstrate that London is serious about equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice, not only in policy but in practice.

We urge City Council to remove this harmful name from our public spaces and replace it with one that reflects the values of our diverse and forward-thinking community.

Sign your name to stand for truth, equity, and change.