Who Was Jack Layton? The Story Behind the Terminal

When you board a ferry to the Toronto Islands, you pass through the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. But who was the man behind the name?

A Lifelong Public Servant

Jack Layton (1950–2011) was one of Canada's most beloved and prominent politicians. He began his political career serving on the Toronto City Council (1982–1991 and 1994–2003). As a city councillor, Layton was known as a passionate, progressive voice. He championed affordable housing, environmental protection, public transit, and equal rights.

The Federal Stage

In 2003, Layton became the leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP). Under his charismatic leadership, the party saw unprecedented growth. His tenure culminated in the 2011 federal election, where he led the NDP to an historic breakthrough, winning 103 seats and forming the Official Opposition for the first time in Canadian history.

A Legacy of Hope

Tragically, just months after this historic victory, Layton passed away after a battle with cancer. His final letter to Canadians ended with a message that resonated deeply across the country: "Love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world."

The Terminal Renaming

Layton had a profound connection to the Toronto Islands. It was a place he loved, where he spent significant time with his wife, Olivia Chow, and where they were married.

In 2012, the Toronto City Council unanimously voted to rename the Toronto Island Ferry Docks in his honor. The terminal was officially rededicated as the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal in 2013 on the second anniversary of his death.

Today, a life-sized bronze sculpture near the entrance depicts Layton riding on the back of a tandem bicycle—an invitation for visitors to sit in the front seat, take a photo, and remember his legacy of "Stronger Together."