Markham—Thornhill is a federal electoral district in Canada, located in the province of Ontario. The district is situated in the Greater Toronto Area, specifically in the northeastern part of the city of Markham, and includes the western part of the town of Richmond Hill.

Population centres Markham—Thornhill includes several significant population centres, including Markham and Richmond Hill. Markham is known for being one of the most diverse cities in Canada, with a large Asian population and a thriving technology industry. Richmond Hill is known for its high quality of life and strong sense of community.

Issues and events Between 2019 and 2022, several issues and events took place in Markham—Thornhill that had a significant impact on the local community. In 2019, the Ontario government announced plans to cancel the construction of the Ontario Line, a major transit project that would have provided faster and more efficient transportation options for residents of the Greater Toronto Area, including those in Markham—Thornhill. This decision was met with widespread criticism and concern among residents and local politicians alike.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the district, as it did on communities around the world. Residents and businesses were forced to adapt to a new way of life, with many small businesses struggling to stay afloat in the face of lockdowns and restrictions.

Economy Markham—Thornhill is home to a number of major employers, including IBM Canada, AMD, and Huawei Technologies. The district is known for its strong technology industry and thriving small business community. In recent years, the region has also seen significant growth in the healthcare and education sectors.

One recent event that had a significant impact on the economy of the district was the opening of the York University Markham Centre, a new campus of York University located in the heart of Markham. The campus is expected to attract new businesses and investment to the area.

Important landmarks Markham—Thornhill is home to several important landmarks and natural attractions, including Milne Dam Conservation Park, Toogood Pond Park, and the Markham Museum. Milne Dam Conservation Park is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, while Toogood Pond Park is known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic walking trails. The Markham Museum offers a glimpse into the history of the region, with exhibits showcasing local art, culture, and heritage.

Arts and culture The district is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several major cultural events and institutions located in Markham—Thornhill. The Flato Markham Theatre is a state-of-the-art performing arts venue that hosts a range of local and international acts throughout the year. The Markham Fair is a popular annual event that celebrates agricultural heritage and features a range of fun activities for visitors of all ages. The Varley Art Gallery is a highly regarded public art gallery that showcases the work of local and international artists.

Electoral issues During the 2021 federal election, a number of economic and social issues were at the forefront of the discussion in Markham—Thornhill. One major issue was the need for increased investment in transit infrastructure, including the completion of the Ontario Line project. Other issues included access to affordable housing, healthcare, and education.

Community organizations There are several important economic and social community organizations located in Markham—Thornhill, including the Markham Board of Trade, the Richmond Hill Board of Trade, and the Markham-Stouffville Hospital Foundation. The Markham Board of Trade is focused on promoting economic growth and development in the region, while the Richmond Hill Board of Trade is focused on supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. The Markham-Stouffville Hospital Foundation is dedicated to supporting the Markham Stouffville Hospital, which provides essential healthcare services to the community.

Multicultural groups Markham—Thornhill is known for its diverse population, with significant cultural demographic segments including Chinese, South Asian, and Iranian communities. There are several cultural organizations in the district that support these communities, including the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, the Indo-Canadian Association of Markham, and the Iranian Canadian Congress. These organizations provide a range of services and resources to support these groups and promote cultural diversity and understanding.

Overall, Markham—Thornhill is a vibrant and diverse community with a strong economy and thriving arts and culture scene. While the district faces its share of challenges and issues, it is also home to passionate and engaged community organizations and individuals who are dedicated to building a better future for all residents.