Canadian Civil Liberties Association to Hold Annual ‘Walk for Civil Liberties’ — Honouring Legacy, Inspiring Action

TORONTO — The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) will host its annual Walk for Civil Liberties this Sunday, October 26, 2025, to raise awareness and funds in support of its vital litigation and advocacy defending rights and freedoms for all people in Canada.

This year’s walk holds special significance as it marks thirty-five years since Nelson Mandela’s historic address at Queen’s Park (June 18, 1990), just four months after his release from prison. Mandela’s visit to Toronto drew thousands from across the country and reaffirmed the global struggle for justice, equality, and human rights — values that remain at the heart of the CCLA’s mission today.

The CCLA is honoured to welcome Dr. Siyabulela Mandela — peace and human rights activist, scholar, and descendant of the late Nelson Mandela — as the 2025 Walk for Civil Liberties Guest of Honour. He will be speaking to participants of the Walk at 1:30 PM ET in front of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

“As I join the Canadian Civil Liberties Association March at Queen’s Park this Sunday, thirty-five years after Nelson Mandela’s historic address in 1990, I am reminded of his enduring legacy,” said Dr. Siyabulela Mandela. “In a polarized world, Mandela taught us that peace is not born of silence, but of justice; that human rights and civil liberties are the pillars upon which reconciliation stands; and that our shared humanity remains the bridge across every divide.”

Howard Sapers, the CCLA’s newly appointed Executive Director, emphasized the importance of collective action and solidarity in the ongoing defense of civil liberties.

“The Walk for Civil Liberties is more than a fundraiser — it’s a statement,” said Sapers. “Every step taken reflects our shared belief in fairness, justice, and accountability. Whether we are challenging unlawful detention, defending the right to protest, or pushing back against the misuse of extraordinary legal powers, this work depends on the strength and support of our community.”

This year, donations to the walk will once again be matched up to $50,000 by a generous supporter, doubling the impact of every contribution.

Participants will gather at 12 noon at the College Street end of Alan Borovoy Lane (College and Grace Streets), named for the late Alan Borovoy, the CCLA’s former Executive Director. The walk will continue along College Street to Queen’s Park, where a short gathering and remarks will conclude the event.

“We invite everyone who believes in justice and freedom to walk with us,” added Sapers. “Your presence — in person or in spirit — strengthens the fight for rights and liberties across Canada.”

For more information or to register, visit: ccla.org/walk-for-civil-liberties

More about Dr. Siyabulela Mandela here.
Join the Walk: See Map and Itinerary Guide here.