A newly redesigned playground located in Regent Park has been officially renamed in tribute to the late Louis March, a local anti-gun advocate. This ceremony took place on Sunday, although not all attendees were happy with the process that led to the decision.

The park, now known as Louis March Park, spans approximately 1.2 acres and replaces the former Sumach-Shuter Parkette. The renaming honors Louis March's significant contributions to both the city of Toronto and the Regent Park community.

March was a dedicated community leader who championed anti-gun violence initiatives for over three decades. He founded the Zero Gun Violence Movement, focusing on youth empowerment and community safety. March passed away in July 2024 after a brief illness, leaving behind a powerful legacy in the fight against gun violence.

Toronto Centre Councillor Chris Moise spearheaded the council vote to rename the park, which took place earlier that week. During the unveiling ceremony on Sunday, Councillor Moise was accompanied by March’s family and Mayor Olivia Chow.

The City of Toronto released a statement highlighting March's commitment to the Greater Toronto Area, particularly within marginalized communities. March’s efforts to establish safe spaces and foster healing in neighborhoods adversely impacted by gun violence have left an enduring impact.

However, several residents from the neighborhood expressed their discontent over the lack of consultation regarding the renaming of the park. Critics voiced their concerns during the ceremony, emphasizing that community input was overlooked.

Regent Park resident Anne-Marie Boone articulated these sentiments, stating, “We have no issue with who the park is named after, it’s just how the name came about.” She added, “If Louis March did his work in Regent Park with the Mothers of Peace, we’re saying that that should have been the park that was named after him.”

Many community members echoed Boone’s frustrations, asserting that they were only made aware of the park's reconstruction, but had not been consulted on the decision to rename it.

The celebration of Louis March’s legacy was marked by both respect for his contributions and a clear divide within the community regarding the process of the renaming. While March’s work has undoubtedly impacted many, the concerns raised during the unveiling ceremony spotlight the importance of community involvement in decisions that affect local spaces.