We now know which face will be on the next $5 bills and it’s that of Terry Fox. A Canadian hero will be honored.
It was on Monday that the federal government confirmed that it would pay tribute to Terry Fox by representing him on the next $5 bill.
Nearly five years ago, the Bank of Canada launched an open nomination procedure to replace Sir Wilfrid Laurier on the $5 bill.
More than 600 applications were submitted.
The Fox family responded to the news by thanking everyone involved in compiling, reviewing and voting on these nominations in a statement: “We are truly grateful. We hope that when Terry Fox’s five dollar bill lands in the wallets and pockets of Canadians, they will consider Terry’s vision to eradicate cancer through research. »
The list of candidates was narrowed down to eight names by an advisory board, and then Canadians were asked about their choice from that selection.
It was former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland who made the final decision.
His choice was also announced on Monday, a few hours after his resignation from his cabinet post, in the fall 2024 economic statement.
Also in the same release, the Fox family recalled the legacy of Fox’s Marathon of Hope, when the young resident of Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, attempted to run across the country on his prosthetic leg, then that his right leg had been amputated years earlier, due to osteosarcoma.
The Marathon of Hope unfortunately ended in 1981, following Fox’s hospitalization. The Canadian hero then managed to raise $24.7 million for cancer research.
The Fox family said in the statement: “His race was cut short just after halfway when the cancer reached his lungs and ultimately took his life. Through his efforts, the 22-year-old showed Canadians the difference an ordinary person can make through sheer will and determination. »
The annual Terry Fox Runs, held across Canada and in several other countries, have raised nearly an additional $800 million over the past 40 years.
British Columbia Premier David Eby noted Terry Fox’s impact on subsequent generations:
The mayor of Port Coquitlam, Brad West, also welcomed the decision of the Canadian currency: “Her courage and determination continue to inspire and unite not only her hometown of Port Coquitlam, but also the people of the whole world. »
Finally, note that the fall economic statement specifies that Laurier will be added to the next version of the $50 bill, while we still do not know what will happen to William Lyon Mackenzie King, who currently appears on this bill.
