The City of Toronto is asking for the public’s help in choosing a city street that will be dedicated in honour of former South African leader Nelson Mandela.

City councillors passed a motion back in April to rename a city street or roadway in honour of the late anti-apartheid leader.

On Thursday, city staff released a list of five Toronto streets in the running for the prestigious honour.

Mandela, who died late last year after months of declining health, shared a close connection with Toronto, visiting the city on three separate occasions.

In a news release issued on Thursday, Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly said the dedication was a way for Torontonians to remember Mandela’s legacy.

"Nelson Mandela is recognized around the world for his heroism, dedication and commitment to his country, and his love for people of every race and creed," Kelly said.

"The naming of a street after Nelson Mandela is a positive way for Toronto to honour the legacy of this great man."

The five city streets in the running for the honour are:

  • Queen Street West from Yonge Street to University Avenue

During Mandela's first visit to Toronto in 1990, his then-wife, Winnie Mandela, led a march from City Hall, located on Queen Street West, to Queen's Park.

  • Shuter Street, from River Street to Parliament Street

In 2001, Nelson Mandela attended the re-naming celebration of a school in his honour. Nelson Mandela Park Public School is located on Shuter Street.

  • Gerrard Street East, from Jarvis Street to Yonge Street

In 2001, Nelson Mandela received an honorary doctorate from Ryerson University. In his acceptance speech, he celebrated children, youth education and the pursuit of universal peace.

  • Bathurst Street, from College Street to Herrick Street

In 1990, during his first visit to Toronto, Mandela spoke to students at Central Technical Secondary School at Harbord Street and Bathurst Street about the poor treatment of black students in South Africa.

  • University Avenue, from Front Street West to College Street

During his visit in 1990, a march was held on University Avenue, from Toronto City Hall to Queen's Park where Mandela gave a speech to a crowd of several thousand people.

Officials say the Mandela tribute will be ceremonial in nature and will not change the official name of the street or addresses. The city will be posting street signs bearing Mandela’s name alongside existing street signs.

Residents can share their thoughts by participating in an online survey until July 4.