It has been revealed that British Columbia legend Terry Fox will appear on Canada's new $5 bill.
The move was outlined in the 2024 Fall Economic Statement, which dropped on Monday.
"Terry Fox is a Canadian hero," the government said. "He campaigned to raise awareness and funding for cancer research by running his Marathon of Hope, a cross-Canada 42-km daily run, on his prosthetic leg. By February 1981, the Marathon of Hope had raised $24.7 million or $1 for every Canadian. His run was interrupted just past the half-way point when the cancer reached his lungs, and ultimately took his life. Through his efforts, the 22-year-old showed Canadians the difference that an ordinary person could make through sheer willpower and determination."
After noting that to this day, runs are held in his honour across the country and around the world every year, the government said its decision was made "to inspire more Canadians to give $5 to the cause that Terry Fox championed."
The move was widely celebrated online. Among those who expressed their delight was Brad West, mayor of Fox's hometown of Port Coquitlam.
"Terry Fox’s legacy transcends differences," West wrote in a post on X. "His courage and determination continues to inspire and unite not just his hometown of Port Coquitlam, but people from all over the world. On behalf of the people of Port Coquitlam, I want to express our immense pride that our hometown hero is being honoured as the new face on Canada's $5 bill."
"This is fantastic news," BC Conservative leader John Rustad added. "Terry Fox represents everything that's great about everyday, hardworking British Columbians. British Columbians are selfless, determined, and dedicated people who believe that anything is possible with if we have faith, family, and community."
According to the government, while Sir Wilfred Laurier will no longer be on the $5 bill, he will appear on the new $50 bill. No word yet on where W.L. Mackenzie King will end up.