Famous Canadian Activists

Terrance Stanley Fox was a Canadian athlete, humanitarian, and cancer research activist known for his remarkable achievements despite having one leg amputated due to cancer. He was a dedicated distance runner and basketball player, even after his leg amputation. In 1980, he embarked on the Marathon of Hope, a cross-country run to raise funds for cancer research. His efforts led to the annual Terry Fox Run, the world's largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research. Fox received numerous awards and accolades for his inspirational contributions to society.

Viola Desmond was a Canadian civil rights activist, businesswoman, and pioneer in the fight against racial segregation. Her courageous act of defiance in 1946 at a cinema in Nova Scotia sparked the modern civil rights movement in Canada. Despite facing legal repercussions, she continued to advocate for equality and justice. Desmond's legacy was honored with a posthumous free pardon in 2010, and she was later featured on the Canadian $10 bill in 2018, becoming the first Canadian-born woman to receive this recognition.

David Takayoshi Suzuki is a Canadian academic, science broadcaster, and environmental activist. He earned a PhD in zoology and was a professor at the University of British Columbia. Suzuki is known for his television and radio series, documentaries, and books on nature and the environment. He hosted the CBC Television science program, The Nature of Things. Suzuki co-founded the David Suzuki Foundation to promote living in balance with the natural world. He has received awards for his environmental work and served as a director for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association.

Naomi Klein is a Canadian author, social activist, and filmmaker known for her political analyses, support of ecofeminism, organized labor, and criticism of corporate globalization, fascism, and capitalism. In 2021, she became a UBC Professor in Climate Justice at the University of British Columbia. She co-directs the Centre for Climate Justice. Klein gained international recognition with her book "No Logo" and documentary "The Take". Her work includes "The Shock Doctrine" and "This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate", both widely acclaimed. She received the Sydney Peace Prize for her activism on climate justice and is recognized as a top influential thinker.

Jane Jacobs was an influential American-Canadian journalist, author, theorist, and activist known for her significant impact on urban studies, sociology, and economics. Her seminal work, "The Death and Life of Great American Cities," challenged prevailing urban renewal and slum clearance policies by emphasizing the importance of respecting the needs of city-dwellers. Jacobs organized grassroots movements to protect neighborhoods from redevelopment projects, leading to the cancellation of major expressway plans in both New York City and Toronto. Despite facing criticism for her lack of formal credentials, her ideas have been widely recognized and respected in the field of urban planning.

Craig Kielburger is a prominent Canadian human rights activist and social entrepreneur known for co-founding the WE Charity, along with his brother Marc Kielburger. He has also established initiatives such as We Day and the independent social enterprise Me to We. Kielburger's dedication to social causes has been recognized through his appointment as a member of the Order of Canada. Through his work, Kielburger has made a significant impact in advocating for human rights and empowering individuals to create positive change in their communities.

Emily Murphy was a prominent Canadian women's rights activist and author known for her contributions to Canadian feminism. She made history in 1916 as Canada's first female magistrate. Murphy, part of "The Famous Five," played a pivotal role in the Persons Case of 1929, which established that women were considered "persons" under Canadian law. Despite her achievements, she faced criticism for her involvement in the Sexual Sterilization Act of Alberta and controversial views on immigrants, particularly Chinese individuals, in her book The Black Candle.

Molly Burke is a Canadian YouTube personality and motivational speaker known for her channel with nearly 2 million subscribers. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at a young age, she lost most of her sight by 14. Previously a spokesperson for Foundation Fighting Blindness Canada, Burke's content covers her experiences with blindness, fashion and makeup advice, vlogs about daily life, and advocacy for disability rights. She shares her experiences with guide dogs and released an audiobook in 2019. Burke appeared on The Daily Show in July 2022.

Nellie McClung was a Canadian author, politician, and social activist known for her significant contributions to the women's suffrage movement. She authored sixteen books, including two autobiographies, and played a pivotal role in securing the right to vote for women in Alberta and Manitoba. As a member of the Famous Five, she fought for women's rights in the Persons Case, leading to groundbreaking changes in Canadian law. Additionally, she served on the board of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and represented Canada at the League of Nations.

Phan Thi Kim Phuc, also known as the "napalm girl," gained international recognition as the subject of the iconic Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph taken during the Vietnam War. Following the traumatic incident, she established the Kim Phuc Foundation International, dedicated to supporting children affected by war. Her advocacy work focuses on providing aid, raising awareness, and promoting peace. Through her foundation, Phan Thi Kim Phuc continues to make a positive impact in the lives of young victims of conflict worldwide.

Patrick Moore is a Canadian industry consultant and former activist who was an early member and past president of Greenpeace Canada. He left Greenpeace in 1986 and has since criticized the environmental movement for what he perceives as scare tactics and disinformation. Moore has taken public stances against major environmental groups on issues such as forestry, nuclear energy, genetically modified organisms, and pesticide use. He has also denied the scientific consensus on climate change, promoting controversial views on the benefits of increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Maziar Bahari is an Iranian-Canadian journalist, filmmaker, and human rights activist. He worked as a reporter for Newsweek for over a decade before being imprisoned by the Iranian government in 2009. Bahari's experiences during his incarceration inspired his family memoir, "Then They Came for Me," which became a New York Times bestseller and was later adapted into Jon Stewart's film "Rosewater." He went on to establish the IranWire citizen journalism news site, the Journalism Is Not A Crime campaign, and the Paint the Change organization, focusing on education and public art.

Irwin Cotler is a retired Canadian politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Mount Royal from 1999 to 2015. He held the position of Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada from 2003 until the Liberal government of Paul Martin lost power after the 2006 federal election. Cotler was first elected to the House of Commons of Canada in a by-election in November 1999, where he won an overwhelming 92% of votes cast.

Paul Watson is a prominent Canadian-American environmental and animal rights activist known for founding the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. He has been involved in numerous direct action campaigns focused on marine conservation, attracting both support and opposition for his tactics. Watson's advocacy includes promoting veganism, population reduction, and a biocentric worldview. Throughout his career, he has faced legal challenges and controversies, including being accused of eco-terrorism. Despite these challenges, Watson continues to be a vocal advocate for environmental protection and animal rights.

Elizabeth May is a prominent Canadian politician, environmentalist, author, activist, and lawyer. She has served as the leader of the Green Party of Canada, holding the position from 2006 to 2019 and again from 2022. May has been a Member of Parliament for Saanich—Gulf Islands since 2011. Her career includes roles such as an environmental lawyer, Senior Policy Advisor to the Environment Minister, and executive director of the Sierra Club Canada. May is recognized internationally for her environmental advocacy and has received numerous accolades for her work.

Omar Sharif Jr. is a versatile professional with a successful career in acting, modeling, and writing. He has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry through his diverse talents and skills. As an actor, he has showcased his acting prowess in various roles, captivating audiences with his performances. Additionally, his work as a model has been recognized in the fashion world, while his writing has allowed him to express his thoughts and advocate for important causes as a gay activist.

Severn Cullis-Suzuki is a prominent Canadian environmental activist and writer known for her advocacy on global environmental issues. She has delivered impactful speeches worldwide, encouraging audiences to consider their values, prioritize long-term thinking, and embrace personal accountability in protecting the environment. Through her work, Cullis-Suzuki has inspired individuals to take action towards a sustainable future.

Farley Mowat was a renowned Canadian writer and environmentalist who gained international acclaim for his works translated into 52 languages and selling over 17 million books. He became famous for his writings on the Canadian north, particularly for books like People of the Deer and Never Cry Wolf, the latter of which was adapted into a film. Mowat's advocacy for environmental causes was widely praised, but he faced criticism for admitting to taking liberties with facts in his writing. Despite this controversy, his work was noted for its vivid imagery and strong convictions.

Mary Ann Shadd Cary was a pioneering American-Canadian anti-slavery activist, journalist, publisher, teacher, and lawyer. She was the first black woman publisher in North America and the first woman publisher in Canada. Shadd established the newspaper Provincial Freeman in 1853, advocating for equality, integration, and self-education for black people in Canada and the United States. She played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, assisting those fleeing slavery. Shadd also recruited soldiers for the Union during the American Civil War and continued advocating for civil rights for African Americans and women throughout her life.

Megan Leslie is a Canadian politician and environmental advocate. She has served as the president and CEO of World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWFC) and been on the advisory board of the Leaders' Debates Commission. Leslie was a federal Member of Parliament for Halifax from 2008 to 2015, representing the New Democratic Party and serving as the party's environment critic. In 2012, she was appointed as one of the deputy leaders of the Official Opposition, making her one of the youngest MPs to hold this position.

Ezra Levant is a Canadian media personality, political activist, writer, broadcaster, and former lawyer. He founded The Western Standard and is the CEO of Rebel News. Levant gained attention for publishing controversial cartoons and engaging in legal battles over free speech. He has been associated with far-right ideologies and is known for his anti-Islamic stance. Levant self-identifies as a libertarian conservative, supports the Canadian petroleum industry, and has faced multiple libel lawsuits. His career includes work as a columnist and TV host.

Robert Lorne Hunter was a prominent Canadian environmentalist, journalist, author, and politician known for his impactful contributions to environmental activism. He played a pivotal role in the founding of Greenpeace and served as its first president, leading groundbreaking anti-whaling campaigns that eventually led to the ban on commercial whaling. Hunter also campaigned against nuclear testing, the Canadian seal hunt, and raised awareness about climate change through his book "Thermageddon: Countdown to 2030." His work earned him recognition as one of the "Eco-Heroes" of the 20th century by Time magazine.

Charlie Riina, a Polish-born Canadian model, actress, and activist, has established herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. With a background in Criminology and Forensic Sciences, she brings a unique perspective to her work. Known for her captivating performances on screen and her striking presence on the runway, Riina has garnered a strong following of fans and supporters. Through her advocacy work, she continues to use her platform to raise awareness on important social issues and make a positive impact in the world.

Marc Emery is a prominent Canadian cannabis rights activist, entrepreneur, and politician known as the "Prince of Pot". He has been a strong advocate for international cannabis policy reform and has been involved in various Canadian political parties at provincial and federal levels. Emery has faced multiple jail sentences for his activism work. He co-operated Cannabis Culture magazine and Pot TV with his estranged spouse, Jodie Emery. The couple also co-owned Cannabis Culture, a business that franchised pot dispensaries until it was raided by police.

Judith Merril, originally known as Judith Josephine Grossman, was an influential American and Canadian science fiction writer, editor, and political activist. She became one of the first women to hold prominent roles in these fields. Merril began her writing career in various genres before focusing on science fiction. She authored three novels, collaborated on others, and wrote numerous short stories. Additionally, she edited numerous anthologies, contributing significantly to the genre over a span of approximately four decades.

Tara Teng is a Canadian former pageant winner who was crowned Miss Canada 2011 and Miss World Canada 2012. Known for her advocacy on human rights issues, particularly human trafficking, Teng used her platform to raise awareness and speak out against these injustices. Her title reigns provided her with a significant platform to promote important causes and make a positive impact in the fight against human rights violations. Teng's professional life reflects her commitment to using her voice for social good and empowering others.

June Callwood was a prominent Canadian journalist, author, and social activist known for her impactful work in the media industry. She gained recognition for her compelling articles and columns published in esteemed national publications. Her legacy was further solidified through the establishment of several charities aimed at supporting marginalized communities in Canada. Notable among her philanthropic endeavors are Nellie's, a pioneering women's shelter, Jessie's Centre for Teenagers (now the June Callwood Centre for Women and Families), and Casey House, the first HIV/AIDS hospice in Canada.

Melody Anderson is a Canadian retired actress, social worker, and public speaker known for her work focusing on the impact of addiction on families. She is best known for her role as Dale Arden in the 1980 adaptation of Flash Gordon. Anderson also starred in the 1986 film Firewalker alongside Chuck Norris. She started as a singer but transitioned to acting, landing roles in various films and television shows in the late 1970s and 1980s, showcasing her talent and versatility on screen.

Ingrid Mattson is a Canadian activist and scholar renowned for her work in Islamic studies. She holds the London and Windsor Community Chair in Islamic Studies at Huron University College, University of Western Ontario. Mattson previously served as the president of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and has been recognized as a prominent figure among American Muslim women. With a strong academic background and a focus on community engagement, she continues to make significant contributions to the field of Islamic studies and promotes interfaith dialogue.

David Fraser McTaggart was a Canadian environmentalist who played a pivotal role in the establishment of Greenpeace International. Prior to his involvement with Greenpeace, he excelled in badminton and had a successful career as a builder and developer. McTaggart gained international recognition for his activism against nuclear testing in the Pacific, leading to the end of France's atmospheric nuclear testing program. He later became the chairman and chief spokesman for Greenpeace and continued his environmental advocacy work through various initiatives and organizations, including the Third Millennium Foundation.

Blair Longley is a Canadian politician, activist, and leader of the Marijuana Party. He is known for his advocacy of cannabis legalization and his involvement in promoting drug policy reform. Longley has been a prominent figure in the Canadian political landscape, advocating for changes in drug laws and pushing for the decriminalization of marijuana. He has played a key role in raising awareness about the benefits of cannabis and has worked tirelessly to push for legislative changes to legalize its use.

Laura Sabia was a prominent Canadian social activist and feminist known for her significant contributions to the advancement of women's rights. She played a key role in the establishment of the Royal Commission on the Status of Women in 1967 and was the National Chair of the Committee for the Equality of Women. Sabia was the first female member of the St. Catharines Separate School Board and served as the president of various organizations, including the National Action Committee on the Status of Women. She was recognized with prestigious awards for her dedication to the cause of women's rights.

Dionne Brand is a prominent Canadian poet, novelist, essayist, and documentarian. She served as Toronto's third Poet Laureate and the first Black Poet Laureate from 2009 to 2012. Brand is a highly esteemed figure in the literary world, having been awarded the Governor General's Award for Poetry, the Trillium Prize for Literature, the Pat Lowther Award for Poetry, the Harbourfront Writers' Prize, and the Toronto Book Award. She continues to make significant contributions to literature and the arts from her home in Toronto.

Jim Bohlen began his professional journey as an engineer in the US, collaborating with the navy and defense departments. His disillusionment with the American government's nuclear policy led him to relocate to Canada. There, he co-founded Greenpeace, a renowned environmental organization, and became an active member of the Green Party. His career was marked by a transition from military-related work to environmental activism, where he played a significant role in advocating for sustainable practices and policies.

Ben Metcalfe, a Canadian journalist, played a significant role in environmental activism. He first became involved in environmental issues when he witnessed the displacement of the Sekani First Nation due to flooding for development purposes. Metcalfe then joined protests against U.S. army nuclear bomb tests near Amchitka Island. His activism led him to become the first Chairman of Greenpeace Foundation, a prominent environmental organization. Metcalfe's dedication to environmental causes and leadership within Greenpeace showcased his commitment to protecting the environment and advocating for sustainable practices.

Charlie Demers is a versatile Canadian professional known for his work as a comedian, political activist, voice actor, and writer. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, he has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry through his comedic performances, political advocacy, voice work in various projects, and contributions as a writer. Demers is recognized for his diverse talents and is respected for his engaging and thought-provoking work across multiple creative fields.

Tamo Campos is a prominent figure in the snowboarding world, hailing from Vancouver. He is widely recognized for his skills on the slopes and is also a dedicated environmentalist. Through his organization, Beyond Boarding, he actively advocates for various social and environmental causes. His passion for sustainability and conservation is evident in his work, drawing inspiration from his experiences in nature. Campos' commitment to blending his love for snowboarding with his environmental advocacy has established him as a respected voice in both communities.

Jeffrey David Berwick is a Canadian-Dominican entrepreneur known for founding Stockhouse.com in 1994, which expanded globally before being sold in 2002. He later became an early investor in bitcoin and gained mainstream attention for discussing the digital currency on platforms like Fox News and Bloomberg. In 2013, Berwick made headlines by launching the world's first Bitcoin ATM in Cyprus. He further expanded his global presence by acquiring Dominican Republic citizenship in 2016. Berwick continues to advocate for libertarian and anarcho-capitalist principles in his professional endeavors.

Sarah Jean Burke was a Canadian freestyle skier known for pioneering the superpipe event. She achieved significant success in her career, winning five Winter X Games gold medals and the world championship in the halfpipe in 2005. Burke played a key role in getting the superpipe event added to the Olympic program for the 2014 Winter Olympics, showcasing her influence in the sport. Tragically, her career was cut short when she passed away following a training accident in 2012.

Dominique Anglade is a Canadian businesswoman and former politician who served as the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party and Leader of the Opposition of Quebec. She has been a member of the National Assembly of Quebec, representing Saint-Henri–Sainte-Anne. Anglade is known for being the first woman to lead the Quebec Liberal Party, the first black woman to lead a provincial party in Canada, and the first person of Haitian descent to be a cabinet minister in Canada. She has also made history as the first woman CEO of Montréal International.

Christina Evangeline is a multifaceted professional known for her work in the modeling industry, acting, and wellness advising. She gained recognition through her modeling career and appeared in the short film 'Mini Supreme' in 2015. Additionally, she is actively involved in volunteer work within her community and supports various charitable causes. Christina is also the founder of 'Evermore,' a non-profit initiative focused on helping individuals cope with the loss of loved ones. Furthermore, she has a keen interest in photography and travel, maintaining a popular 'Instagram' account with a significant following.

Ursula Martius Franklin was a Canadian metallurgist, research physicist, author, and educator known for her work at the University of Toronto. She focused on the political and social impacts of technology. Franklin authored influential works such as "The Real World of Technology" and "The Ursula Franklin Reader," advocating for pacifism and feminism. She received honors like the Governor General's Award and was inducted into the Canadian Science and Engineering Hall of Fame. Franklin's critical views on technology and promotion of equality have left a lasting legacy.

Ketty Nivyabandi is a prominent Burundian poet and human rights activist residing in Canada. She began her career as a journalist in Bujumbura, Burundi, before becoming an activist during the country's constitutional crisis in 2015. Nivyabandi led women-only protests and co-founded the Women and Girls Movement for Peace and Security in Burundi. She has advocated for human rights, particularly women's rights and the impact of conflict on women's lives, and has spoken at various international events. Currently serving as the Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada, Nivyabandi continues her work in Ottawa.

Sumaya Dalmar, also known as Sumaya YSL, was a Somali-Canadian transgender activist and model. She was an early figure in the Somali community to come out as transgender and LGBT. Dalmar was involved in various projects, including acting in a play and documentary exploring Somali identity and masculinity. She also worked as a speech therapist and was set to join an LGBT community center. Her visibility and advocacy efforts within the trans community were widely praised, leading to the establishment of an award in her honor.

Frank Wolf is a Canadian adventurer, writer, filmmaker, and environmentalist known for documenting wilderness expeditions worldwide, mainly focusing on the Canadian North. He has achieved notable feats such as being the first to canoe across Canada in one season and cycling 2,000 km in winter on the Yukon River. With a portfolio including books, magazine articles, online columns, and films like Wild Ones and The Hand of Franklin, Wolf has been recognized as one of Canada's top explorers and adventurers by prestigious organizations.

Loly Rico is a prominent figure in the field of refugee advocacy in Canada. She co-directs the Faithful Companions of Jesus Refugee Centre in Toronto and has held leadership positions in various organizations, including the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants and the Canadian Council for Refugees. Rico has been recognized for her work with awards such as the Constance E. Hamilton Award on the Status of Women and the Trevor Bartram Award. She has been a vocal critic of government policies related to refugee resettlement and human trafficking, advocating for better protection and support for victims.

Maggie McGuane is a talented writer, photographer, and occasional model who has made a name for herself in the creative industry. She has carved out a niche for herself with her writing, capturing moments through her photography, and stepping into the world of modeling when the opportunity arises. Beyond her creative pursuits, Maggie is known for her passionate activism and dedication to helping others in times of need, such as her involvement in providing support to victims of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.