Toronto – The City of Toronto and Mayor Olivia Chow honoured Jason Ash, a dedicated Thorncliffe Park community leader, as the 2025 recipient of the Agnes Macphail Award. Ash was presented with the award in a special ceremony, recognizing his outstanding commitment to social issues and community advocacy in the city.
Ash was instrumental in championing public transit accessibility, advocating for extended TTC bus routes to better serve Thorncliffe Park residents. His efforts in co-founding “Friends of Thorncliffe Park” have led to more inclusive and enhanced public spaces. Additionally, he has played a key role in tenant advocacy and mobilizing support for community initiatives including efforts to preserve Ontario’s Science Centre.
The Agnes Macphail Award was established in 1994 to recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to social justice, equality and community engagement – values championed by Agnes Macphail, the first woman elected to the federal House of Commons. The award is presented annually to an individual in Toronto’s former borough of East York, which Macphail represented, who has made outstanding contributions to the community through volunteerism and advocacy.
More information on the Agnes Macphail Award and a full profile of the 2025 Award recipient is available on the City’s Awards webpage.
“Jason Ash has spent his life giving back to his community, serving on the Board of The Neighbourhood Organization, advocating to expand bus routes to Thorncliffe, supporting tenants through the Leaside Towers Tenants’ Association and installing Muskoka Chairs to improve Thorncliffe Park. His commitment to public service reflects the spirit of Agnes Macphail. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement. “ – Mayor Olivia Chow