Toronto/CMEDIA: The Key to the City of Toronto has been presented by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow to Dr. Itah Sadu.
Dr. Itah Sadu was recognized for her lifelong contributions as an award-winning storyteller, author and cultural leader in strengthening Toronto’s Black community and enriching the city’s broader literary and cultural landscape.
“I am extremely honoured to be receiving the Key to the City from Mayor Olivia Chow…accepting the Key to the City during Black History Month, a time that both celebrates the achievements of Black people and acknowledges the ongoing racism and systemic barriers they face…provide opportunities for artistic and cultural expression,” Dr. Itah Sadu, Key to the City Recipient.
The Mayor proclaimed February 2026 as Black History Month in the City of Toronto.
“Toronto is strengthened by leaders like Dr. Itah Sadu who dedicate their lives to culture, storytelling and community…On behalf of the people of Toronto, I am proud to present her with the Key to the City.” Mayor Olivia Chow has said.
An acclaimed children’s author and educator Dr. Sadu’s work affirms that Black children belong in every story, every space and every future. As the co-owner of A Different Booklist, an iconic Toronto bookstore specializing in African and Caribbean Canadian literature which is a cultural hub, rooted in and serving Toronto’s Black community.
Also serving as Managing Director of the Blackhurst Cultural Centre, known as The People’s Residence, Dr. Sadu has embodied resilience and created spaces for youth, artists and families across the city. Her decades of advocacy and creativity have helped in strengthening representation in literature, elevating Black voices and building community through culture, education and entrepreneurship.
About the Key to the City
The Key to the City of Toronto, the highest honour granted by the Mayor to an individual or a group, is awarded by the Mayor to inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds and who have contributed significantly to civic life.
More information, including a list of past recipients, is available on the City’s Key to the City web pages: https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/awards-tributes/awards/key-to-the-city/.
