Banff 
The federal government has announced that Terry Fox, the Canadian icon known for his Marathon of Hope, will be featured on the next $5 bill. This decision revealed in the 2024 Fall Economic Statement, honours Fox’s extraordinary contribution to cancer research and awareness.
Terry Fox gained national recognition for his Marathon of Hope, a journey that saw him run an average of 42 kilometres daily on a prosthetic leg to raise funds for cancer research. Despite halting his cross-country run in 1980 due to the return of his cancer, Fox inspired Canadians with his determination and resilience. By February 1981, his efforts had raised $24.7 million—equivalent to one dollar for every Canadian at the time.
Fox passed away at age 22 after his cancer spread to his lungs.
“Through his efforts, the 22-year-old showed Canadians the difference that an ordinary person could make through sheer willpower and determination,” reads the Fall Economic Statement.
“Today, Terry Fox Runs are held every year, across the country and around the world to raise money for cancer research. To inspire more Canadians to give $5
to the cause that Terry Fox championed: To inspire more Canadians to give $5 to the cause that Terry Fox championed: The 2024 Fall Economic Statement announces that Terry Fox will appear on the next $5 bank note.”
In addition to Terry Fox, the shortlist by the Bank of Canada for nominees for the $5 note included seven remarkable figures who shaped Canadian history :
- Pitseolak Ashoona, an Inuit artist, depicted traditional Inuit life through her internationally celebrated work.
- Robertine Barry, Canada’s first female French journalist, advocated for women’s rights.
- Binaaswi (Francis Pegahmagabow), Canada’s most decorated Indigenous war hero, later championed Indigenous rights.
- Won Alexander Cumyow bridged divides as Canada’s first Chinese-Canadian-born citizen.
- Lotta Hitschmanova pioneered humanitarian efforts worldwide.
- Isapo-muxika (Crowfoot) promoted peace as a Blackfoot leader
- Onondeyoh (Frederick Loft) advanced Indigenous rights activism.
In a corresponding change, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, who currently appears on the $5 note, will feature on the next version of the $50 note.
