August 18, 2023 Newsletter

Dear friend,

The Ontario Legislature resumes this upcoming Monday after five long months and a general election. I’m eager to return to Queen’s Park alongside the ONDP caucus to fight for the issues that matter to you!

This week, I was reappointed by Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles as the Shadow Attorney General, with responsibility for 2SLGBTQIA+ issues. These are the same roles I held in the last session of the legislature, and I am grateful for the Leader’s confidence in me to take up these important portfolios again. This means I will continue to hold the Ministry of the Attorney General accountable for decisions, call out when things are broken, such as our court and tribunal systems, and propose solutions on how to improve the legal system to better serve Ontarians. I also have the privilege and responsibility of amplifying concerns affecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I will do this by listening to and partnering with our community groups to bring their voices to Queen’s Park, something that is more important than ever as Queer and Trans communities are scapegoated by conservative politicians and far-right groups. 

I will take on my shadow ministerial appointments with the energy and focus that you deserve and expect from your Member of Provincial Parliament. I am excited to build on my existing knowledge, stand up for justice, and ensure that Ontarians from every corner of our province, from survivors of violence to tenants, will get their day in court and the Landlord Tenant Board. 

This Legislative session will be unlike any other, as the ever-evolving tariff situation south of the border keeps us on our toes. Ontarians need an even-handed, transparent, and accountable government now more than ever. 

The Ontario NDP caucus is ready to take a Team Ontario approach to protecting jobs and insulating the province from the worst effects of Donald Trump’s tariffs while holding this government accountable and pushing for the strong public services we need. 

Yesterday, Ontario’s Financial Accountability Office released a report showing decades of decline in services for key social programs – including healthcare, long-term care, post-secondary education, and social assistance. 

Under consecutive Conservative and Liberal governments, long-term care beds per capita have plummeted by 45 percent, from 99 to 62 beds per 1,000 seniors. The growth in our aging population should come as no surprise to any government as the sector has been forecasting for years the need for public investment to expand long-term care beds to meet the “silver tsunami.” Any intelligent and responsive government would have proactively built these homes in anticipation of these needs. 

Similarly, there has been a steady decline in the number of hospital beds per 100,000 people – from 478 in 1990-91 to 222 in 2023-24. The previous Liberal government purposefully downsized hospitals in the 1990s, cutting the number of hospital beds by half. The Ford government has significantly made this worse by creating less than one bed per 100,000 Ontarians during their terms, further growing our hallway medicine crisis. 

We are all also seeing the results of the chronic underfunding of our post-secondary education system in real time. Colleges and universities have been forced to rely on lucrative international student fees to make up budget shortfalls, only to see these student visas capped by the federal Liberal government, causing post-secondary institutions to make head-turning program cuts. On a real per-student basis, postsecondary education spending in Ontario has decreased from $14,183 per student annually in 1990-91 to $12,994 in 2023-24, adjusted for inflation. Raiding reserves, taking on new debt, selling assets, and even terminating courses and staff will not sustain the post-secondary education sector. Without smart government intervention, they are heading towards financial collapse.

In the face of record-high housing costs and a rise in homelessness, inflation-adjusted social assistance rates are even lower today than they were 20 years ago. Nobody wants to see their neighbours made homeless, yet Liberal and Conservative governments have insisted on maintaining sub-poverty social assistance rates for the most vulnerable among us. Now, heading into what appears to be a drawn-out trade war, we should be lifting people up, not sending them deeper into poverty when they are sick and unable to work or unable to find work.

We need to make sure Ontarians can weather the storm of financial uncertainty. We must protect Ontarian families for whatever changes there are to come. That means we need a government that invests in the services that matter most – reliable health care, affordable homes, and great schools. I will never back down in the face of adversity. I will continue pushing this government to make the critical investments to grow our economy and support our communities amid international uncertainty.

I am excited to return to the Legislature, where I will push for new and stronger legislation that takes care of people and strengthens Toronto and the province we call home.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Marit Stiles’ Meeting with US Consulate General
• Greenbelt Scandal: More Lies out of Ford’s Office
• Toronto Centre Supporters Appreciation Party
• Co-hosting the Small Business Workgroup
• $200 Cheques - are you still waiting?
• Metrolinx Construction - Noise and Disruption
• Day of Pink 2025
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

Last week, ONDP Leader Marit Stiles met with U.S. Consul General Baxter Hunt. Marit told me that they had a focused and productive discussion, where she reminded him that Ontario is the United States’ third-largest trading partner and that our prosperity is tied together.

From auto and steel to agriculture and lumber, Ontario is part of one of the most integrated trade relationships in the world—supporting millions of jobs and hundreds of billions in cross-border investment.  We all know that tariffs will stall that progress. They won’t just hurt us—they will hurt American families too. At the checkout line, on the factory floor, and across the supply chains that keep our economies running.  

Marit shared with the U.S. Consul General what MPPs have been hearing across Ontario: Canadians are united, and we will defend what we have built together. We all want to lower the temperature, but we cannot ignore the economic uncertainty caused by one man’s threats, which seem to change every single day. 

Until those threats are off the table, we will not back down. We will look after each other and build a stronger economy and a more resilient, tariff-proof Ontario. This is the work that I am focused on every day. 

Doug Ford may have a new mandate, but he has not been able to run away from the skeletons in his closet. Last week, we learned – through the diligent work of Ontario’s Integrity Commissioner – that one of Ford’s former political aides-turned-lobbyists failed to meet ethical lobbying standards. Mr. Fidani-Diker failed to register as a lobbyist, knowingly created a conflict of interest for two public officials by offering them hockey tickets in what ought to be known as a bribe, and in the course of his work for another client, failed to disclose details of the change he was lobbying for. 

Despite these egregious contraventions of lobbying rules, Mr. Fidani-Diker has only received a slap on the wrist and is free to continue his work as a professional lobbyist.

Ontario’s Office of the Integrity Commissioner is full of extremely skilled and principled people who uncover acts of wrongdoing and rulebreaking within public offices every day. However, they have very little power to actually hand down consequences, especially to elected officials. One would hope that the pubic shame would be enough for people to change their ways, but as we have seen with Ford and his buddies, many simply don’t care. We need to give the Integrity Commissioner more tools to deliver real consequences. Public officials should be held to a high standard, and it is maddening to see this government fail to uphold even basic standards of decency. I promise to continue to share this truth with you through my newsletter and to hold myself to the highest ethical standards. It is what you all deserve in an elected official.

On Sunday, I was thrilled to host a post-election Supporters Appreciation Party to thank all of the volunteers, donors, staff, and friends who put in the hard work to ensure my re-election as the MPP for Toronto Centre. 

We had a great turnout, and it was wonderful to enjoy delicious food, great music, and conversation with so many supporters. Celebrating wins is so important, especially now, when being a progressive feels difficult. Thank you so much to everyone who attended and to those who were not able to join us – we missed you! 

Yesterday, I was so happy to reconnect with amazing small business owners and supporters through our Small Business Workgroup, cohosted by MPP Chris Glover and myself. We were joined by the Bloor-Yorkville BIA, Better Way Alliance, Bloorcourt BIA, Cabbagetown BIA, and so many business owners! 

All of the attendees provided thoughtful input. What they shared about the challenges they are facing, especially around tariffs, was invaluable. I am committed to addressing these issues and making sure our small businesses not only survive but thrive in Ontario.

Most Ontarians received their $200 bribe cheque from the Ontario government earlier this year. However, NDP MPPs have been hearing from a small number of people across the province that their cheques have yet to arrive despite being eligible. 

If you meet the eligibility requirements but have not received your cheque, please contact me (or your local MPP if you live in another riding), and we will do our best to rectify the situation. NDP MPPs plan to reach out to the Minister of Finance collectively with our constituents’ stories to ensure that the government acts and sends people the money they promised. 

If you live near or work near one of the new under-construction Ontario Line subway stations or the Union Station Rail Corridor, you know that crews are working long hours. While I am pleased that efforts are being made to complete construction quickly, my office has also received many reasonable complaints about dust, noise, and vibration during sleeping hours. Metrolinx is exempt from all City of Toronto noise bylaws, but that doesn’t mean they should not be good neighbours. Please continue to reach out to my office with these concerns, and I will pass them on to Metrolinx. 

Overnight construction is currently happening around Lower Jarvis and Lower Sherbourne. This work is essential, as it will create the capacity for frequent, all-day, two-way GO transit service to more destinations along the GO rail system. However, this work is causing additional local disturbances. 

I encourage residents to attend local Metrolinx community update meetings, share concerns, and learn more about why this overnight work is sometimes necessary. We all want to be riding the Ontario line and all-day GO as soon as possible, but we also need quality sleep in the meantime!

On Wednesday, we celebrated the Day of Pink, a powerful day when people stand up against 2SLGBTQIA+ focused bullying. 

I had the honour of celebrating at the Day of Pink Gala with my friends MOlivia Chow, Fred Hahn, Jill Andrew, and Cheri Di Novo. The evening reminded us of the power of love, acceptance and the incredible progress we’ve made in Ontario. It’s not just a celebration of our vibrant 2SLGBTQIA+ communities but also a crucial fundraiser supporting programs that are making a difference in schools and communities across the country. 

Toronto's University Health Network launches scientist recruitment campaign amid U.S. health cuts, layoffs

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Inquest into jail death called as data shows record number of people dying in Ontario jails

TNG Community Services and St. James Town Community Corner invite community members to a Free Repair Café on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM (registration closes at 3:00 PM). The event takes place at 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, and is wheelchair accessible.

Skilled volunteers will help repair broken household items, including:

• Computers
• Small appliances
• Home electronics
• General housewares
• Clothing and jewelry
• Bikes and toys
• Books and paper items
  (One item per person)

Volunteers with repair skills are also welcome to participate.

For more information, contact:

• Touhida Choudhury: 416-925-4363 x2521 or [email protected]
• Alaa: 416-964-6657 x240 or [email protected]

TransCare+ invites community members to the Trans Care Fair 2025, a full afternoon dedicated to trans wellbeing, empowerment, and connection.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
• Time: 12 – 5 PM
• Location: The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto)
• RSVP here

Allies are welcome in solidarity. Admission is free, and the space is fully accessible.

Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win – Support Local and Win Prizes
The Cabbagetown BIA invites community members to take part in Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win, a neighbourhood-wide local shop campaign running April 14 to May 25, 2025.

• What it is: Shop at participating Cabbagetown businesses and enter to win weekly prizes.
  
  
• How to enter: Spend $25 or more at any participating business, then upload the receipt to the campaign website.
  
  
• Prizes: Weekly gift cards from local shops and restaurants.
  
  
• Final draw: All entries are eligible for a grand prize gift card bundle.
  

This initiative celebrates and supports small businesses while offering a fun way to connect with the Cabbagetown community.

More details and a list of participating businesses are available at shopcabbagetown2win.com.

School boards receive most of their funding from the provincial government. Every spring, the Ministry announces Core Education Funding, which determines the amount of funding school boards will receive for the coming year. Before provincial funding is announced, the TDSB wants to hear from students, staff, and families during the 2025-26 budget process.

TDSB’s Budget Town Hall Community Consultations provide community members with the opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback about the budget.

Visit the TDSB Budget webpage for details on how to attend in person or online, or learn how to delegate to a committee. To ensure enough space is available at the town halls, please register through this form if you plan to attend in person.

Downtown Budget Town Hall
Tuesday, April 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
In-person at Harbord Collegiate Institute (286 Harbord Street, Toronto)
(* hosted by Trustee Deborah Williams)

Student Budget Town Hall
Thursday, April 24 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Hybrid (in-person and/or virtual) at 5050 Yonge Street, North York
Click here to join online (for virtual option on evening of event)

Neighbourhood Information Post invites young artists to a free art class with renowned Toronto-based artist Benny Bing! This is a great opportunity for youth to explore creativity and learn from a celebrated contemporary artist.

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025
🕟 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Benny Bing Studio, 35 Tubman Ave, Suite 103, Toronto, ON M5A 0T1
👩‍🎨 For youth ages 10 to 16

• Learn from Benny Bing, known for his bold use of colour and artwork exploring Black identity, gender, and humanity
• Hands-on creative experience in an inspiring studio environment
• Free to attend, registration required

📩 Register here
📞 For more information, contact 416-924-2543 ext. 224 or email [email protected].

People's Assembly on Housing Justice — a time to connect, learn, and build collective action for housing rights.

🗓️ Friday, April 25th, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Panel Discussion: Financialization of Housing and Low-Income Communities
Featuring:

• John Clarke (230 Fightback)
  
  
• Walied Khogali Ali (Regent Park Residents Association)
  
  
• Chiara Padovani (York South Weston Tenant Union)
  
  
• Lorrain Lam (Shelter Housing Justice Network)
  

🗓️ Saturday, April 26th, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Full-Day Assembly

• 10:15 AM – 12:15 PM: Working Together
  Speakers from Climate Justice Toronto, Migrant Workers Alliance, No Demovictions, Toronto Underhoused and Homeless Union/Shelter Housing Justice Network, Friends of Chinatown, and Parkdale Housing Justice.
  
  
• 12:15 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch (provided onsite)
  
  
• 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Workshops on Organizing and Tactics
  
  
• 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Mobilizing Communities
  Panel speakers: Gaetan Heroux (230 Fightback) and Bruno Dobrusin (York South Weston Tenant Union)
  
  
• 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Final Comments and Closing Reflections

📍 Location: Toronto PWA Foundation, 4th Floor, 163 Queen St E, Toronto

🆓 This is a free event. Registration is optional and not required to attend.
🍽️ Lunch will be served on Saturday.

For more information, reach out to [email protected].

 A family friendly and entertaining outdoor event which will link defending our right to choose our own future – a future that eliminates carbon emissions - a better future that provides the necessities of life, (clean air, clean water, good health, affordable housing and a job that pays a living wage) and a future with justice for Indigenous People. Come on out and enjoy speakers, music, street theatre, and a kids table!

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

Time: 1 P.M. to 4 P.M.

Location: Allan Gardens – Jarvis at Carlton (North-West section) 160 Gerrard Street East, Toronto.

The City of Toronto's Local Leadership Grant is now open! 

As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), the Local Leadership Grant of $5,000 supports resident-led projects that support local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic-decision making, physical surroundings, and social development - across all neighbourhoods. The Local Leadership Grant prioritizes the leadership and participation of Indigenous, Black and equity-deserving groups within Neighbourhood Improvement Areas, Emerging Neighbourhoods, and other communities of focus. 

Applicants must be a resident-led group consisting of at least 3 members who live in Toronto but do not live in the same household

Group projects must offer community-based activities related to at least one of the five domains of TSNS (i.e., economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in decision-making, social development and physical surroundings) of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy

• Grant Opens: Monday March 17, 2025 at 12 PM
• Grant Closes: Monday April 28, 2025 at 12 PM

Click Here to submit your online application

Click here to learn about the online information sessions and grant office hours to support you with your application. 

If you have any questions, please email [email protected] 

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

The Government of Canada invites nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made a meaningful difference through volunteerism.

Nominations are now open until May 8th for those who have shown exceptional commitment to improving the lives of others in their communities.

Award Categories:

• National Award: Thérèse Casgrain Lifelong Achievement Award
  
  
• Regional Awards:
  
  
  • Community Leader
  • Emerging Leader
  • Business Leader
  • Social Innovator

Nominees can include individuals, not-for-profit organizations, social enterprises, and socially responsible businesses. Multiple nominations are welcome.

Award recipients will be honoured at a national ceremony and will have the opportunity to direct a $10,000 (national) or $5,000 (regional) grant to a not-for-profit organization of their choice.

Learn more or submit a nomination at Canada.ca/volunteer-awards 

Questions can be directed to [email protected] or by calling 1-877-825-0434.

The Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association invites the community to their 15th Annual General Meeting — an evening to connect, renew memberships, and celebrate local leadership.

🗓️ Thursday, May 15th, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 The 519 Ballroom, 519 Church Street

Evening Schedule:

• 6:30 PM: Registration and Membership Renewal
  
  
• 7:00 PM: Business Meeting (Board of Directors elections; members in good standing are eligible to vote and run)
  
  
• 8:30 PM: 15th Anniversary Celebration and Cake Cutting

Questions? Contact [email protected].

The 519’s Health Justice Program invites community members to an important discussion on Community Violence and Healing, part of the Talking Justice series.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
• Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
• Location: In person at The 519 (519 Church Street) or virtually
• Tickets: Free (Presto tickets and snacks provided)
  

Bianca Braganza, MSc, JD/BCL, Pro Bono Lawyer with The 519’s Combatting 2SLGBTQ+ BIPOC Hate and Racism Program, will lead a conversation exploring:

• Community and structural violence
• Social determinants of health in relation to crime and justice
• Alternative approaches to safety and justice
  

The 519 is a fully accessible space with all-gender washrooms. Additional accessibility supports are available upon request during registration.

RSVP preferred at The519.org/hjprog

The Regent Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its 2025 festival!

Regent Park Film Festival (RPFF) is an award-winning, community-based, non-profit organization, and Toronto’s longest-running, FREE film festival.

RPFF’s mission is two-fold: to amplify and center marginalized communities and their stories, providing a platform for the work of emerging and established artists, while opening up access to the film and television industry; and to ensure art is free and accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status.

📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024
🎥 Open to: Canadian and international filmmakers
📍 Submissions accepted online

• Welcomes films from Black, Indigenous, and racialized creators, as well as those from marginalized communities
• All genres and formats considered, including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation
• Free to submit

The festival prioritizes stories that reflect social justice, community, and the realities of those living in underrepresented spaces.

The festival is also hiring! Click here for Job Opportunities, and Call for Board Members.

Not Far From The Tree is inviting community members to register their fruit trees for the 2025 harvesting season. A team of volunteers will pick the fruit and divide it three ways:

• ⅓ is kept by the tree owner
• ⅓ is shared among the volunteer pickers
• ⅓ is donated to a community agency supporting food programs

Impact of Participation:

• Helps provide fresh fruit to local food programs feeding thousands each month
• Creates opportunities for community connection and sharing
• Reduces food waste while turning fruit trees into a source of nourishment

Membership & Registration:

To support Toronto’s urban harvest, tree registrants are asked to become members with a $40 seasonal contribution, which helps cover harvest costs and expand the program. Yard cleanup of fallen fruit is also included. Memberships expire annually on January 1st.

For more details and to register, visit: www.notfarfromthetree.org.

Dear friend,

The Ford government does not care about the most vulnerable people in Ontario or those who support them. We always knew this, but current issues throw that lack of care into even sharper focus. This government is defunding special education programs in our schools, pushing students and staff to the breaking point. They are closing Consumption and Treatment Sites (CTS) despite the medical evidence that proves they work, and they are letting the nursing crisis fester at the expense of patients and workers. This kind of austerity makes our province weaker, and the government is less able to respond to emergencies. Under Ford, Ontario is racing to the bottom when it comes to education and health care in the country.

Last week, the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) held a press conference to highlight the crisis in special education. They called on the Ford government to provide adequate resources and staffing to students who need extra support to thrive at school. Instead of receiving that support, most education workers feel that their in-classroom, in-school, and board-level support have decreased even as student special needs have skyrocketed. 

ETFO members cited lack of early intervention, limited resources, increases in school violence due to unmet student needs, lack of special education support for English language learners, and the persistent inequalities faced by children with disabilities as some of the most significant issues facing special education today. This amounts to an infringement on the human rights of these children. Elementary school is a critical time when young brains can pick up skills and make developmental leaps more quickly than in high school or beyond. Our youngest learners need support during these years to reach their full potential.

March is Developmental Disabilities Month, and it is critical to highlight the support that people with developmental disabilities need to be fully included in their communities. I spoke about this in the Legislature last year, and it nearly brought me to tears. Children with disabilities already cope with so much; they and their families should not also have to beg for basic care and resources. 

This week, the government seemingly made an about-face on Consumption and Treatment Sites (also referred to as overdose prevention sites). For months, Minister of Health Sylvia Jones has claimed that sites within 200 meters of a school or childcare centre, which are being forced to close due to government legislation (tabled without public consultation or committee review), would not be allowed to reopen in any new location. However, this week, government lawyers at the Ontario Superior Court contradicted the Health Minister. They stated that CTS sites would be free to reopen if they moved to a location in line with the new boundary rules. 

This court case is ongoing, and I will be monitoring the issue closely as it profoundly affects Ontario’s healthcare system. Research has shown that if these sites go away, people who use drugs do not go away. They will continue to use drugs in their neighbourhoods. We can expect to see more unsupervised drug use and more overdoses. That is not the kind of community that anyone wants to live in. The current sites are not perfect - underfunded and understaffed - but they are lifesaving and give access to additional health care and housing support to those who are deeply vulnerable. Instead of closure, they deserve government support to improve safety and quality of life for the neighbourhoods they are a part of. 

Depending on the crescent moon sighting, on Sunday or Monday, Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid and mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In celebration, I handed out Palestinian Medjool dates to community members this week as they prepared to break their day-long fast. These delicious Jericho-grown dates come from the West Bank in Palestine and are some of the largest and sweetest I have ever eaten. 

I am looking forward to celebrating with the community and distributing even more Palestinian dates over the weekend. Ramadan Mubarak!

A winter storm is coming to Ontario this weekend, bringing an expected heavy accumulation of rain and snow. I encourage you to stay informed as weather updates come in, practice caution when navigating roads and sidewalks, stay home if the weather is unsafe, and check up on your vulnerable neighbours. Power outages are also possible, so be prepared. Together, we will get through this!

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Ontario Nurses: Safe Staffing Saves Lives
• 75 Ontario CEOs Call on Ford to Support Homegrown Tech
• Street Haven’s 60th Anniversary
• My Interview with Regent Park TV
• Monday is Trans Day of Visibility
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

On Wednesday, the Ontario NDP Caucus met with the Ontario Nurses Association and learned even more about how Ontario nurses are holding our healthcare system together with sheer will. Patient-to-nurse ratios are out of control, nurses are leaving the profession in droves due to burnout and disrespect, and private nursing agencies are snapping up nurses only to redeploy them to our public hospitals at exorbitant rates.  Meanwhile, thousands of internationally and interprovincially trained nurses are here in Ontario, waiting to be approved to work in Ontario and alleviate so much suffering. 

High patient-to-nurse ratios drastically increase the risk of errors, accidents, patient death, and nurse burnout. In Ontario, we sometimes experience ratios as high as 10 patients to one nurse. France Gelinas, Ontario NDP critic for Healthcare, recently tabled a private members bill that would have mandated 4:1 patient-to-nurse ratios, a ratio used in both BC and Australia. The Ford government failed to meet the moment and voted it down. 

This week, the Council of Canadian Innovators published an open letter signed by 75 CEOs based in Ontario. The letter laid out a list of policies that these CEOs believe would function to “reclaim control over [Ontario’s] economic destiny.”

The letter openly criticizes Ford’s focus on foreign direct investment, or the process of bringing international companies to Ontario to set up large production facilities, over the nurturing of businesses already rooted here in Ontario. The signatories argue that much more needs to be done to capitalize on the natural resources, domestic talent, and data that we have right here in Ontario to grow Ontario businesses into economic powerhouses. I couldn’t agree more. Many Ontario small and medium size business owners have the drive to grow, but need support to go up against giant multinationals. The Ontario government can and should prioritize domestic companies in their procurement practices and create an environment of investment in Ontario. 

These arguments echo what I have been hearing from local business leaders and regular folks out in the community. People want to buy Canadian. They want to support their local stores, suppliers, and producers, but they need the government to get behind them and provide the regulatory environment and funding support to make that push happen. 

I am currently working alongside MPP Chris Glover to host a business roundtable, as I have done in the past. I am looking forward to bringing these business perspectives back to Queen’s Park when the session begins in two weeks’ time. I am always proud to be a voice for local businesses in the chamber!

For 60 years, Street Haven at the Crossroads has been a port in the storm for women across Toronto as a place of shelter and care. It was an honour to participate in their 60th Anniversary Gala, which recognized the founder, Peggy Ann Walpole, a nurse and Governor General award winner and the outstanding contributions of staff, clients, and sponsors to the betterment of our community and women across Toronto.

At Queen's Park, I am committed to pushing the Ford government for more investments in affordable housing, mental health support, and addiction-centred programs. Street Haven has proven itself to be an exceptional housing and shelter provider—let's support them as they write the next exciting chapter of their story.

This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Regent Park TV’s Gabriel Meissner to discuss critical issues affecting local communities, especially those in Regent Park, St. James Town, and Moss Park. We spoke about the trade war we find ourselves in with the US, rent control, government investment in affordable housing, and public healthcare. You can watch the whole interview here.

This upcoming Monday is Trans Day of Visibility, a day when trans people and their allies come together to celebrate the joy of belonging to the trans community, lift up local trans artists, and enjoy each other's company. 

The Toronto Trans Alliance is hosting a celebration at Glad Day this Sunday, complete with performances, film screenings, karaoke, and a midnight reading of the City of Toronto's proclamation of the Trans Day of Visibility. 

The 519 is also hosting a public information session about Trans Day of Visibility and how we can all be better allies to Trans folks in our communities. Sign up here.

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The 519 is offering a free Finance & Tax Literacy Workshop to support self-employed community members in building financial confidence and managing tax obligations with ease.

Event Details:

• Location: The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto)
• Date: Saturday, March 29
  
• Time: 2-4 PM
• RSVP here

This session is designed for sole proprietors, including:

• Artists and performers
  
• Tradespeople and contractors
  
• Anyone running a small business, freelance service, or passion project
  
  

Note: This workshop focuses on sole proprietorships and does not cover incorporated businesses.

Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) is a time to honour the resilience, brilliance, and rights of trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. In this public session, we’ll explore the roots and significance of days like TDOV and the vital role each of us can play in defending human rights for trans communities —especially amidst rising hostility and misinformation.

What you'll gain:

• Historical context and human rights framing for days of trans significance
• Tools to recognize and interrupt transphobia and cissexism
• Concrete actions to practice meaningful, trans-affirming allyship

Date: Monday, March 31, 2025

Time: 3pm

Location: Online

Click here to register.

Get ready for an afternoon of activities, storytelling and music. Borrow a Grandparent brings older and younger generations together for an afternoon of games and fun.

Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Regent Park Community Centre (402 Shuter St.), Banquet Room

April is BeADonor Month, an annual campaign led by Trillium Gift of Life Network to raise awareness about the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation. This month encourages:

• Registering as a donor
  
• Having important conversations with loved ones about donation wishes
  
• Sharing information to inspire others to register
  
  

Key Facts:

• In 2023, 341 deceased donors in Ontario enabled 1,035 organ transplants.
  
• 1,975 tissue donors enhanced the lives of thousands.
  
• One donor can save up to eight lives and improve the lives of up to 75 others through tissue donation.
  
• Nearly 1,400 people in Ontario are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.
  
  

Since 2003, almost 25,000 Ontarians have received a second chance at life through transplants — but the need remains urgent.

More information and donor registration are available at BeADonor.ca.

TransCare+ invites community members to the Trans Care Fair 2025, a full afternoon dedicated to trans wellbeing, empowerment, and connection.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
  
• Time: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  
• Location: The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto)
  
• RSVP here

Allies are welcome in solidarity. Admission is free, and the space is fully accessible.

Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win – Support Local and Win Prizes
The Cabbagetown BIA invites community members to take part in Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win, a neighbourhood-wide shop local campaign running April 14-May 25, 2025.

• What it is: Shop at participating Cabbagetown businesses and enter to win weekly prizes.
  
• How to enter: Spend $25 or more at any participating business, then upload the receipt to the campaign website.
  
• Prizes: Weekly gift cards from local shops and restaurants.
  
• Final draw: All entries are eligible for a grand prize gift card bundle.
  

This initiative celebrates and supports small businesses while offering a fun way to connect with the Cabbagetown community.

More details and a list of participating businesses are available at shopcabbagetown2win.com.

The City of Toronto's Local Leadership Grant is now open! 

As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), the Local Leadership Grant of $5,000 that supports resident-led projects that support local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic-decision making, physical surroundings, and social development - across all neighbourhoods. The Local Leadership Grant prioritizes the leadership and participation of Indigenous, Black and equity-deserving groups within Neighbourhood Improvement Areas, Emerging Neighbourhoods, and other communities of focus. 

Applicants must be a resident-led group consisting of at least 3 members who live in Toronto but do not live in the same household.

Group projects must offer community-based activities related to at least one of the five domains of TSNS (i.e., economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in decision-making, social development and physical surroundings) of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy.

• Grant Opens: Monday March 17, 2025 at 12 PM
• Grant Closes: Monday April 28, 2025 at 12 PM

Click Here to submit your online application.

Click here to learn about the online information sessions and grant office hours to support you with your application. 

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

The Regent Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its 2025 festival!
📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024
🎥 Open to: Canadian and international filmmakers
📍 Submissions accepted online

• Welcomes films from Black, Indigenous, and racialized creators, as well as those from marginalized communities
• All genres and formats considered, including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation
• Free to submit

The festival prioritizes stories that reflect social justice, community, and the realities of those living in underrepresented spaces.

The festival is also hiring! Click here for Job Opportunities, and Call for Board Members. 

Sherbourne Health is offering mental health support groups for Black, African, Caribbean, and Multiracial 2SLGBTQ+ youth. These programs provide a space to build community, explore mental health, and develop wellness strategies.

Program Details:

Resilient Roots

A five-session training for Black 2SLGBTQ+ youth with lived mental health or substance use experience. Participants will develop peer support skills and explore mental health, harm reduction, and self-care.

•  Mondays, 6:00 – 8:00 PM | March 3 – 31

Rise & Thrive

A program designed to celebrate cultural foods, foster community, and explore mental well-being.

• Rise:  Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 4 – April 15
• Thrive:  Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 5 – April 16

Levelling Minds (Online Program)

A nine-week series offering stress management tools and mental health strategies.

•  Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 6 – May 1

For more details and to register, click here.

TNG Community Services and St. James Town Community Corner invite community members to a Free Repair Café on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM (registration closes at 3:00 PM). The event takes place at 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, and is wheelchair accessible.

Skilled volunteers will help repair broken household items, including:

• Computers
• Small appliances
• Home electronics
• General housewares
• Clothing and jewelry
• Bikes and toys
• Books and paper items
  (One item per person)

Volunteers with repair skills are also welcome to participate.

For more information, contact:

• Touhida Choudhury: 416-925-4363 x2521 or [email protected]

Alaa: 416-964-6657 x240 or [email protected]

Neighbourhood Information Post invites young artists to a free art class with renowned Toronto-based artist Benny Bing! This is a great opportunity for youth to explore creativity and learn from a celebrated contemporary artist.

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025
🕟 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Benny Bing Studio, 35 Tubman Ave, Suite 103, Toronto, ON M5A 0T1
👩‍🎨 For youth ages 10 to 16

• Learn from Benny Bing, known for his bold use of colour and artwork exploring Black identity, gender, and humanity
• Hands-on creative experience in an inspiring studio environment
• Free to attend, registration required

📩 Register here
📞 For more information, contact 416-924-2543 ext. 224 or email [email protected].

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

Not Far From The Tree is inviting community members to register their fruit trees for the 2025 harvesting season. A team of volunteers will pick the fruit and divide it three ways:

• ⅓ is kept by the tree owner
• ⅓ is shared among the volunteer pickers
• ⅓ is donated to a community agency supporting food programs

Impact of Participation:

• Helps provide fresh fruit to local food programs feeding thousands each month
• Creates opportunities for community connection and sharing
• Reduces food waste while turning fruit trees into a source of nourishment

Membership & Registration:

To support Toronto’s urban harvest, tree registrants are asked to become members with a $40 seasonal contribution, which helps cover harvest costs and expand the program. Yard cleanup of fallen fruit is also included. Memberships expire annually on January 1st.

For more details and to register, visit: www.notfarfromthetree.org.

The Government of Canada invites nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made a meaningful difference through volunteerism.

Nominations are now open until May 8th for those who have shown exceptional commitment to improving the lives of others in their communities.

Award Categories:

• National Award: Thérèse Casgrain Lifelong Achievement Award
  
• Regional Awards:
  
  • Community Leader
  • Emerging Leader
  • Business Leader
  • Social Innovator

Nominees can include individuals, not-for-profit organizations, social enterprises, and socially responsible businesses. Multiple nominations are welcome.

Award recipients will be honoured at a national ceremony and will have the opportunity to direct a $10,000 (national) or $5,000 (regional) grant to a not-for-profit organization of their choice.

Learn more or submit a nomination at Canada.ca/volunteer-awards 

Questions can be directed to [email protected] or by calling 1-877-825-0434.

The 519’s Health Justice Program invites community members to an important discussion on Community Violence and Healing, part of the Talking Justice series.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
  
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  
• Location: In person at The 519 (519 Church Street) or virtually
  
• Tickets: Free (Presto tickets and snacks provided)
  
  

Bianca Braganza, MSc, JD/BCL, Pro Bono Lawyer with The 519’s Combatting 2SLGBTQ+ BIPOC Hate and Racism Program, will lead a conversation exploring:

• Community and structural violence
  
• Social determinants of health in relation to crime and justice
  
• Alternative approaches to safety and justice
  
  

The 519 is a fully accessible space with all-gender washrooms. Additional accessibility supports are available upon request during registration.

RSVP preferred at The519.org/hjprog 

Dear Emma,

Yesterday, I was officially sworn in as the MPP for Toronto Centre. This was my fifth time taking an oath of public office, but this time, I found myself feeling more nervous and emotional than I had during previous ceremonies. When I reflected on it later, I realized that it was the presence of so many friends, colleagues, and community members looking on that brought up these emotions. I so dearly want to do right by them and everyone in our community, and seeing all of their faces as I took the oath really brought that commitment home. The Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Trevor Day, who administered the oath, also reminded me of how very special this honour is. Since confederation, fewer than 2,000 people have taken the oath to become an Ontario MPP. To be one of them feels incredibly profound. 

Every day, I feel honoured to hold public office and serve the people of Toronto Centre and the communities that I love. Yesterday was a beautiful ceremonial celebration of that honour, which I will always cherish. I want to thank all of the people who stood with me as I took my oath and everyone in Toronto Centre for putting their trust in me. I do not take it lightly and will work hard every day to live up to our shared ideals. 

Jumping from one election to another, the Ottawa rumour mill has been spinning for weeks and now it seems to have settled - reliable sources are telling us that the federal election will be called this coming Sunday, in just two days, and that election day will be on either April 28 or May 5. Those details are still to be determined, as a federal election campaign lasts between 36 and 50 days in Canada. 

Luckily, here in Toronto Centre, we are ready to go. Local resident and family physician, Dr. Samantha Green, our fantastic candidate, has been knocking on doors for almost a year already and has an amazing campaign team behind her. Meanwhile, the Liberals do not yet have a candidate after Marci Ien announced two weeks ago that she would not run again. 

Samatha’s campaign is so prepared that they are having an office opening on Sunday, the day of the writ drop, and you are invited!!!

Join me, Samantha, community leader Danyaal Raza, and progressives in Toronto Centre at 1 PM this Sunday at 655 Dundas Street East to officially open Samantha’s office and ensure that we send a true progressive voice to Ottawa.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Ford’s Cabinet Announcement
• Renewed Assault on Gaza
• Standing up for St Lawrence Co-op Daycare
• Ford: Canada as the 51st state is a “Compliment”
• Meeting with Peggy Nash’s Women in the House Students
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

On Wednesday, Doug Ford announced his new cabinet. It is largely unchanged and fails to meet the moment Ontario is in. Now is a time for bright new thinkers to come up with creative solutions, not more of the same cut-and-privatize Ministers.

People are worried about the future of our province and our country. They are struggling to afford groceries; they can’t find a family doctor or an affordable place to live. Yet, this cabinet includes the same Minister of Transportation who couldn’t open a transit line, the same Minister of Health who downplayed the doctor shortage, and the same Minister of Infrastructure who spent weeks dodging basic questions. The cabinet includes 29 ministers and 8 associate ministers, making it one of the largest and most expensive in Ontario’s history. 

While there was little change, one swap left me chilled to the bone: Paul Calandra will be the new Minister of Education. Political watchers will remember that Calandra was Ford’s Government house leader until last year and before that an MP under PM Stephen Harper. In both roles he was known as a political spin doctor, the kind of person who you wanted in your corner when you had to break some bad news and didn’t want to take any criticism. Calandra has the unique skill of being able to yell a bunch of nonsense at you in a way that is both intimidating and convincing until you take a moment to understand what he actually said, which is nothing. This appointment raises alarm about the kinds of cuts Ford conservatives will bring down on our public education system, which is already in tatters. 

The Ontario NDP will soon announce our shadow cabinet, a team full of MPPs ready to rise to meet this challenging moment, by fighting rising costs, investing in building homes, hiring doctors, and building a tariff-proof economy. They can count on Ontario's Official Opposition NDP to keep up that fight at Queen’s Park and across the province to hold Doug Ford’s Conservatives to account every single day.

Just like many of you, I have felt horror and grief as images of death and destruction have poured out of Gaza again this week. On Tuesday, Israel broke the ceasefire and resumed the relentless bombing of civilians, in addition to shutting of electricity, water, and aid trucks carrying food and medical supplies to the region. 

The people of Gaza have been through far too much. They were just taking their first breaths, returning to their homes, and reuniting with loved ones. And now they have been plunged back into the horrors of genocide. 

The ceasefire agreement must be honoured on all sides. But instead, the innocent civilians of Gaza, including thousands of children, are paying the price. Doctors are again being asked to make impossible decisions about which child to save and which to let die, simply because of a lack of resources. This is unconscionable and the Canadian government must stand up to Trump and Netanyahu. I am so proud of the NDP’s advocacy on this issue, but they need more voices to join them. I encourage you to write to PM Carney and local MPs to urge them to act and speak out for the people of Gaza who are experiencing relentless suffering right now. 

Toronto Centre’s St. Lawrence Co-op Day Care is facing challenges meeting the governments strict standards for permanent outdoor play spaces. This week, I wrote to the Minister of Education to request that the Ministry take into account the unique urban context in which the daycare is situated, and the fact that they are currently meeting the outdoor play space requirements, just with a temporary space. 

I am hopeful that the daycare will be able to continue to operate, providing excellent care for our little ones and solutions for working families. You can read the full letter here.

On Tuesday, Doug Ford said that the American threat to make Canada their 51st state is a “compliment.” This made my blood boil. How could a threat of hostile takeover and a lack of respect for our sovereignty ever be taken as a compliment? 

I am proud to stand up for Canada, our values, our public assets, and our people. We are not simply resources, but a strong nation that deserves respect. We have many problems, the largest among them our historic and present lack of respect for the sovereignty of Indigenous nations on this land we call Canada, but that will never be solved by infringement on our borders by our southern neighbour. I will do absolutely everything that I can to hold Ford accountable and make sure that he is not giving anything up to the Americans.

Yesterday I had the pleasure of sitting down for a conversation with three students from Peggy Nash’s Women in the House course. They asked such thoughtful and engaging questions which lead to a lively conversation about representation, justice, and human rights in our houses of government. It was so inspiring to engage with the next generation of leaders, and I so appreciated their curiosity and passion for learning. I can’t wait to see what they do next!

Removing bike lanes will likely worsen gridlock, lead to more collisions: government documents

Hudson's Bay hopes to save 6 stores, which could protect some of its 9,364 jobsNews

Toronto charity to open affordable housing for homeless women

Hundreds of nurses rally outside Ontario hospitals to demand safer staffing levels

TDSB to vote on controversial fundraising change some call a ‘tariff on parent donations’

Mayor Olivia Chow asking city to accept $50-million pledge from Weston foundation to revamp Queen’s Park North

Head of Canada’s high speed rail project wants it to run into downtown Toronto

Sherbourne Health is offering mental health support groups for Black, African, Caribbean, and Multiracial 2SLGBTQ+ youth. These programs provide a space to build community, explore mental health, and develop wellness strategies.

Program Details:

Resilient Roots

A five-session training for Black 2SLGBTQ+ youth with lived mental health or substance use experience. Participants will develop peer support skills and explore mental health, harm reduction, and self-care.
📅 Mondays, 6:00 – 8:00 PM | March 3 – 31

Rise & Thrive

A program designed to celebrate cultural foods, foster community, and explore mental well-being.

• Rise: 📅 Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 4 – April 15
• Thrive: 📅 Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 5 – April 16

Levelling Minds (Online Program)

A nine-week series offering stress management tools and mental health strategies.
📅 Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 6 – May 1

For more details and to register, click here. 

The Centre of Learning & Development, in partnership with Mothers of Peace, Arthubs, and the City of Toronto, invites the community to the Eid Bazaar at Daniels Spectrum. This Eid celebration will showcase local vendors offering henna, jewelry, clothing, food, and more while bringing the community together.

📅 Dates: March 6, 12, 19, 26
⏰ Time: 2:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas St E)

For questions or vendor inquiries, contact Sureya at [email protected] or 647-493-2462 ext. 112.

Connect Fund is hosting live music and performance to raise money to help pay for gender-affirming care not covered by provincial health care. Help them raise funds for folks who need help. All proceeds from ticket sales and merch will go directly to people who need care. 

Across Canada, 2SLGBTQ+ people face higher levels of poverty. They face a lack of culturally-competent healthcare providers. They face long wait times to get care. They can face discrimination when they do receive it. With the Connect Fund, at least they won’t have to worry about how to pay for care on top of all of that. 

 📅 Thursday, March 28, 2024
🕕 6:00 PM – Late
📍 The Great Hall, 1087 Queen Street West

Click here for tickets

• Celebrate queer culture and community impact
• Enjoy drag performances, DJs, dancing, and more
• Funds raised will support Connect’s ongoing gender affirming care work

TNG Community Services and St. James Town Community Corner invite community members to a Free Repair Café on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM (registration closes at 3:00 PM). The event takes place at 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, and is wheelchair accessible.

Skilled volunteers will help repair broken household items, including:

• Computers
• Small appliances
• Home electronics
• General housewares
• Clothing and jewelry
• Bikes and toys
• Books and paper items
  (One item per person)

Volunteers with repair skills are also welcome to participate.

For more information, contact:

• Touhida Choudhury: 416-925-4363 x2521 or [email protected]
• Alaa: 416-964-6657 x240 or [email protected]

Neighbourhood Information Post invites young artists to a free art class with renowned Toronto-based artist Benny Bing! This is a great opportunity for youth to explore creativity and learn from a celebrated contemporary artist.

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025
🕟 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Benny Bing Studio, 35 Tubman Ave, Suite 103, Toronto, ON M5A 0T1
👩‍🎨 For youth ages 10 to 16

• Learn from Benny Bing, known for his bold use of colour and artwork exploring Black identity, gender, and humanity
• Hands-on creative experience in an inspiring studio environment
• Free to attend, registration required

📩 Register here
📞 For more information, contact 416-924-2543 ext. 224 or email [email protected].

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

The Regent Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its 2025 festival!
📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024
🎥 Open to: Canadian and international filmmakers
📍 Submissions accepted online

• Welcomes films from Black, Indigenous, and racialized creators, as well as those from marginalized communities
• All genres and formats considered, including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation
• Free to submit

The festival prioritizes stories that reflect social justice, community, and the realities of those living in underrepresented spaces.

The festival is also hiring! Click here for Job Opportunities, and Call for Board Members. 

Are you looking for free or affordable mental health support? Family Service Toronto offers just that! They are part of Family Service Toronto network, the only network in Ontario that provides free and low cost couples and family therapy in addition to individual counselling. 

To learn more about their resources and get connected to support visit ontariocounsellingfinder.ca.