In memory of former Mississauga Mayor
Hazel McCallion
February 14, 1921 to January 29, 2023
Donations in Hazel McCallion’s honour
Donations can be made to the Trillium Hospital Foundation or the Hazel McCallion Foundation for Arts, Culture and Heritage.
Hazel McCallion’s life and legacy
Hazel McCallion was mayor of Mississauga for 36 years. She was first elected in November 1978, and went on to serve 12 consecutive terms as mayor; the longest-serving mayor in the City’s history. She was acclaimed in 1980 and then re-elected in 1982 and 1985, acclaimed again in 1988 and re-elected in 1991, 1994, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2006 and 2010. She decided not to run in the 2014 election and stepped down on December 1, 2014.
After leaving politics, McCallion didn’t put her feet up and retire. She authored a memoir in 2014 appropriately called Hurricane Hazel: A Life With Purpose.
Statements and tributes
She was the force that propelled me and so many other Canadian women into politics.
Hazel leaves a lasting legacy of strong leadership and governance. Her years at Mississauga City Hall will be remembered fondly.
Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation remembers Hazel McCallion
Miigwech for your allyship and friendship Hurricane Hazel, you will be missed. Baamaapii.
Former Chiefs Bryan LaForme, Carolyn King, and current Councillor Veronica King-Jamieson share fond memories of Hazel McCallion’s dedicated friendship with the nation.
Hazel in her own words
“From an early age, I decided that I was going to lead a life of purpose; that I would not let my modest Depression–era background or lack of formal education define me or place limits on what I could achieve.”
“Never fear failure. Don’t go out looking for failure, but never let the fear of failure paralyse you in making decisions, finding solutions to problems or taking chances to fulfill dreams. In failure so much can be learned.”
“The people of Mississauga are the best anywhere.”