We are proposing to rename Tichester Park to "Hedy Bohm Park", in honour and recognition of Hedy Bohm's extraordinary contributions to the community, through Holocaust education, community building, and the promotion of kindness, tolerance, and anti-discrimination across Toronto.

Hedy Bohm immigrated to Toronto in 1949 following her survival of the atrocities of the Holocaust, including imprisonment in the Auschwitz concentration camp. Like many survivors, she initially struggled to speak about her experiences, focusing instead on building a life in Toronto while raising a family and contributing to her community with resilience.

A long-time resident of Tichester Avenue since 1992, Ms. Bohm has deep roots in the local community and has helped shape the social fabric of the neighbourhood through both her presence and her work.

Later in life, Hedy Bohm made the courageous decision to share her story publicly. For over three decades, she has dedicated herself to educating young people across the Greater Toronto Area about the consequences of hatred, in whatever form it may take,  and the importance of empathy, inclusion, and moral courage.

Her work has included:

●     Speaking to thousands of students in schools across Toronto and the GTA

●     Promoting awareness of the dangers of any form of discrimination, antisemitism, and intolerance

●     Inspiring youth to stand up against injustice and to believe in their own capacity to create change

●     Offering free yoga and Tai-Yo  classes (a Tai Chi / Yoga fusion created by Hedy) inspiring local residents to improve mental and physical well being.


Through her memoir Reflection, published at age 97, Hedy Bohm emphasizes the importance of kindness, self-belief, and perseverance. Her message to young people is both simple and profound: that each individual has the power to make a difference and must not allow fear or prejudice to define their path.

If you have any questions or concerns, please email councillor_matlow@toronto.ca.