Mississauga Mayor Crombie Responds to the Passing of Hazel McCallion
Extract: “Today, we grieve the loss of Mississauga’s matriarch, Hazel McCallion – a fierce and passionate leader who touched the lives of many and who served as an inspiration to women in politics across the country. …Hazel lived a good life and the truth is that even in her final days, she never stopped giving back to this great city and to the people who proudly call it home.
“As our first female Mayor at a very critical time in our history, she helped grow and shape Mississauga from farmland and fruit trees into the seventh-largest city in Canada with a quality of life that is “second to none.”
She was also proof that if you “do your homework,” you can achieve just about anything. Strong-willed and determined, she always fought for the best interests of Mississauga whether it was at the Council table, Queen’s Park or on Parliament Hill. Hurricane Hazel inspired countless women to speak out and have their voices heard…
“She lived a life of service before self, and even long after her time in politics, she was still campaigning; whether it was to raise funds to build a new hospital, support local arts and culture or help ensure seniors age with grace…
“I will miss Hazel, not only as a mentor but as a friend. She was the driving force behind my decision to put my name on the ballot to succeed her as Mayor of this great city. “Even in her final years, Hazel never stopped moving. I’ll miss the time we spent together on evenings and weekends, whether that was cutting ribbons for new businesses, raising funds for charity, walking in parades or speaking at festivals. I’ll cherish those moments and hold them near and dear to my heart.”
Prime Minister Justin
Trudeau’s statement:
“Today, I join Ontarians and Canadians in mourning the passing of Hazel McCallion, the former long-serving mayor of Mississauga. My dear friend Hazel was an extraordinary woman who wore many hats: a businessperson, an athlete, a politician, and one of Canada’s – and the world’s – longest-serving mayors. Nicknamed ‘Hurricane Hazel’ for her bold political style, she was unstoppable.
“‘I want to assure you that the people will come first during my term’ she told a cheering crowd when she won her first term as mayor almost 45 years ago. And that was how she served: by putting people first….
“Hazel McCallion led the transformation of Mississauga from a bedroom community to the sixth largest city in Canada under her guidance as mayor from 1978 to 2014. After serving as mayor for 36 years, Hazel McCallion was appointed Chancellor of Sheridan College and special advisor at the University of Toronto Mississauga. She also served as the chair of the World Health Organization’s Symposiums on Healthy Cities and was a strong advocate for ending discrimination toward seniors.
“Hazel McCallion received many awards and honours for her accomplishments, including the Leadership in Public Service Award from the International Economic Development Council and the Key to the City of Mississauga. She was also the runner-up for the World Mayor Award and was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in 2005.
“”We will remember her as a trailblazer whose career in politics and service to her community will remain an inspiration to all of us. But mostly, we will remember her as a dear friend.”
Premier Doug Ford: “Hazel was the true definition of a public servant. She dedicated her long life to her community. She led the transformation of Mississauga into one of Canada’s largest cities.
“Hazel’s mark on her community can be found in the many places and organizations that bear her name, including the Hazel McCallion Line.
“There isn’t a single person who met Hazel who didn’t leave in awe of her force of personality. I count myself incredibly lucky to have called Hazel my friend over these past many years.
“As I entered the world of politics, I was fortunate enough to learn from her wisdom and guidance, which she selflessly offered until the very end. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police, Nando Iannicca, Peel Regional Chair and other political and community leaders have also expressed condolencnes on the passing of Hazel McCallaion”
