The Montreal Historical Society has formally appealed to the mayor of Montreal, asking that the city arrange for the return of a statue depicting explorer Jacques Cartier Champlain. The statue, which had recently been taken down in the neighbouring province of Ontario, is the focus of the society’s request made on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
In its petition, the society highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the monument, noting its relevance to Montreal's heritage. The organization urged municipal authorities to engage with the parties responsible for the removal in Ontario and to secure the statue's relocation to its original setting in Montreal.
The removal of the statue in Ontario has sparked discussions about the treatment of historical monuments across Canada. While the specific reasons for the takedown have not been disclosed, the incident has prompted heritage groups to reassess how such artifacts are managed beyond provincial borders.
Mayor of Montreal has yet to issue a public response to the society’s appeal. The mayor’s office, however, is expected to review the request in light of the city’s broader cultural preservation policies and any inter‑provincial considerations that may arise.
The Montreal Historical Society, a local organization dedicated to preserving the city’s past, has previously advocated for the protection of historic sites and monuments. This latest action underscores its ongoing commitment to ensuring that artifacts linked to the city’s founding figures remain accessible to residents and visitors alike.
If the mayor decides to act on the society’s recommendation, the process would involve negotiations with Ontario authorities, logistical planning for the statue’s transport, and coordination with heritage officials to determine an appropriate display location within Montreal. The outcome will be closely watched by heritage advocates across the province.