Dear Emma,
Ontario’s colleges are a vital piece of our education system, but right now they are in freefall. In Toronto alone, we have four publicly funded colleges and each contribute greatly to the economy, workforce and cultural fabric of our city.
Nearly 10,000 college faculty and staff have been let go or are projected to lose their jobs very soon. Colleges are eliminating over 600 unique programs of study as they struggle to cope with the dual shocks of international student caps and frozen provincial funding.
Doug Ford provides the lowest per-student college funding in the country, cutting it even further in the 2025-2026 budget. Colleges and universities already had to make cuts and operate on razor-thin margins before this, relying on very lucrative and uncapped international student tuition. When the Federal government greatly reduced the number of international students it was admitting into Canada, colleges were suddenly in massive financial trouble. Colleges have reported a 48% decrease in enrolment of international students and, with that, a drop in their revenue.
Instead of recognizing this crisis for what it is and coming to the table with more funding, Ford and his government are letting the entire sector flounder.
Colleges are anchor institutions in communities. Of course, they provide education and jobs to people who work and study there, but they also provide massive economic and cultural benefits to their surrounding areas. They allow young people to stay in their communities after high school, while attracting students from across the province with unique program offerings. These students and staff provide a population base that patronizes local restaurants and other small businesses, and students themselves are often staff for those very same businesses. Moreover, they bring fresh and creative ways of thinking to the towns and cities they are in, energizing them and making them great places to live.
Cuts and program closures will have ripple effects through our whole province. They will put our next generation at risk, reduce qualified applicant pools for employers, and destabilize entire communities that are structured around these institutions.
I, alongside my colleagues in the Ontario NDP, are demanding a substantial, permanent increase in post-secondary operating grants. We call on the government to immediately stabilize the sector, protect jobs, preserve programs, and ensure every student gets the education they deserve. Investments in education pay dividends to our economy and the strength of our social fabric.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- RSVP: Education in Crisis Virtual Townhall
- Nine First Nations Request Injunction Against Bills 5 and C-5
- Ford Threatens Subsidized Childcare
- Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Surges
- Raise Your Voice: Unfair Patient Fees at Doctors’ Offices
- Ethiopian Heritage Community Dinner
- CLC Panel: Women in Leadership
- Add Your Name: Lift Up 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities
- This Week’s Headlines
- Local Community Events
| RSVP: Education in Crisis Virtual Townhall |
On the last day of school, the Ford government took over the TDSB, along with three other school boards in Ontario. That means that our democratically elected TDSB trustees, along with other TDSB leadership, are not in control of our school board.
Instead, Rohit Gupta, a former Metrolinx advisor with no experience in education, has been appointed to run the TDSB. He is responsible for the education of 248,000 students. Mr. Gupta has no public email address or phone number, and isn't answering questions.
I bet you are upset. I am, too. Let’s use that passion to make change!
On Monday, July 28th, join me, MPP Jessica Bell, and elected TDSB Trustee Deborah Williams at our Virtual Town Hall to find out what the TDSB takeover means for your family, your neighbours, and your community.
Together, we'll share the information you need, answer your questions, and give you the tools you need to fight for our public education system.
Date: Monday, July 28, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Location: Online (Zoom) - RSVP for Link
Everyone is welcome!
| Nine First Nations Request Injunction Against Bills 5 and C-5 |
Nine First Nations in Ontario have joined together in asking the Ontario Superior Court of Justice for an injunction against both Ontario’s Bill 5 and the Federal Government’s Bill C-5. These bills both grant governments sweeping powers to approve large development and infrastructure projects, allowing applicants to ignore many existing laws and skip past layers of approval.
Both of these bills ignore Indigenous nations’ rights to self-determination and fail to honour the legally binding treaties that cover much of Ontario and Canada. Indigenous leaders across Turtle Island have been speaking up against these bills, and rightfully so. So many communities have been devastated by pollution from mining and other extractive projects that poison their lands and waters, jeopardizing the health of whole communities. And that was when levels of approval and environmental assessments were in place! So much more damage could be done with critical safety and environmental regulations removed.
I stand with Indigenous nations behind this injunction and am so proud of my fellow caucus member, Sol Mamakwa, for his tenacity in fighting Bill 5.
|
Ford Threatens Subsidized Childcare |
Parents, caregivers, and childcare workers across Ontario are in limbo right now, all because Doug Ford is dragging his feet on signing an agreement with the Federal government. An agreement that would ensure childcare subsidies through to 2031.
Current Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC), colloquially known as “$10-a-day childcare,” funding agreements expire in March of 2026. The Ontario government must sign on as soon as possible to avoid gaps in funding and skyrocketing fees for families. Currently, fees in Ontario are capped at $22 per day for children under the age of six. This is far from the goal of $10, but a stark improvement from the pre-subsidy era, when families were paying nearly $90 per day for infant daycare.
Angela Zhu, a parent with a child in a Toronto Centre daycare, recently spoke with CTV News about what affordable childcare means to her family. She shared that if the subsidy disappeared, she would likely not be able to have a second child, a gut wrenching decision facing so many. She also shared that many parents at her son’s daycare would have to leave their jobs if subsidies ended, a reality for so many young families.
| Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Surges |
Ontario is in the midst of a raging epidemic of intimate partner violence. This is not news to anyone who regularly reads this newsletter, but even for me the new numbers are staggering.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recently released data showing that reports of intimate partner violence in 2024 increased by 18.1 per cent in Ontario compared to 2023 levels, from 5,326 victim-survivors in 2023 to 6,289 in 2024. 2023 levels were also 13.5% higher than 2022. Experts like Erin Lee, executive director of Lanark County Interval House, says that these increases can be attributed to an increase in incidents and severity of incidents, as well as rising awareness and willingness to reach out for help.
We know that the real numbers are much higher and that this epidemic disproportionately affects marginalized folks, especially unhoused women, Indigenous women, newcomers, and those with multiple intersecting marginalizations. We need to do so much more to support survivors so that they feel safe to report and that they do not have to wait for services when they decide they are ready.
I am working tirelessly behind the scenes this summer so that when the Legislature resumes, we can hit the ground running, get the epidemic declared, and produce real results for survivors. Part of that strategy is championing the Consent Awareness Week Act, a bill I am co-sponsoring, which would make the first week of the post-secondary school year Consent Awareness Week. The first few weeks of the fall term at post-secondary schools are known as the “red zone,” a time when campus sexual violence spikes. Much more education, prevention, and awareness is needed during this time.
You can learn more about the Consent Awareness Week Act and how you can get involved here.
|
Raise Your Voice: Unfair Patient Fees at Doctors’ Offices |
Your voice matters! Right now, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) is holding public consultations on block fees and other charges that patients are saddled with at their doctor’s office.
The CPSO is reviewing its policy on uninsured services — fees charged to patients for services not covered by OHIP, such as sick notes, driver’s medical exams, and prescription renewals by phone. Many Ontarians are also being asked to pay annual “block fees” of $150 or more to cover these types of services. These changes are being considered following a rise in complaints from patients who feel pressured or unable to afford the extra costs.
Ontarians are already struggling with rising costs of living and Doug Ford is quietly pushing Ontario toward a two-tier American-style system, where if you have money, you get better care, and if you don’t, you’re left behind. These block fees and extra charges are just another form of upselling that has no place in our public health system. We need reform on this issue - it is about fairness and access to healthcare.
Ontarians can provide feedback through the CPSO’s official consultation page before the August 1 deadline.
| Ethiopian Heritage Community Dinner |
It was a real honour to join the Ethiopian Association in GTA and Surrounding Regions last Friday. Together, we celebrated the progress we have made to recognize Ethiopian Heritage Month in Ontario. I am proud to be a co-sponsor of ONDP Deputy Leader MPP Doly Begum’s bill, the Ethiopian Heritage Month Act.
The Ethiopian community’s hospitality and love of their culture is infectious. I can’t wait to continue supporting their advocacy when the legislature resumes.
| CLC Panel: Women in Leadership |
Yesterday, I was so happy to join the Canadian Labour Congress’ panel on supporting women and gender-diverse people in leadership. The labour movement has been at the forefront of real workplace wins for women and gender-diverse people across Ontario and Canada. We must keep fighting for pay equity and fair treatment for all workers!
| Add Your Name: Lift Up 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities |
The Ontario Federation of Labour has launched a new petition, and they need your help getting signatures!
This petition calls on the Ontario government to protect and include 2SLGBTQIA+ people explicitly in our communities, public institutions, and workplaces, including by ensuring that they have access to affirming healthcare, housing, and education. The petition additionally calls on the government to adequately fund Pride festivals, implement anti-hate education campaigns, and support immigrants and refugees.
You can download a printable petition here and mail the originals (the Legislature does not accept photocopies) directly to the OFL.
We must all work together and demand better from this government!
| This Week's Headlines |
Homes on Jarvis St. latest target of city’s heritage designation push
What you need to know to understand air quality warnings in Canada
Controversial bus lanes on Bathurst and Dufferin may get extended after all
Bodenstein siblings follow in mother's footsteps in receiving provincial appointments to boards
Income inequality hit record high at start of 2025, Statistics Canada says
Thousands go from jail to being homeless in Ontario every year, report finds
Bad news, commuters: the Eglinton Crosstown LRT may be delayed again
Ontario is adding 150 new jail beds. Experts say they aren't enough to address overcrowding
| Upcoming Community Events |
| Hungry Carnivores Plant Sale & BBQ |
Friends of Allan Gardens and Plantzza Hut will be co-hosting Hungry Carnivores (Toronto’s only carnivorous plant sale) on July 20th! Don’t miss this exciting event with your favourite vendors and BBQ!!
Friends of Allan Gardens have partnered with Ti Kay La Foods INC to bring you a taste of St. Lucia!
Date: Sunday, July 20, 2025
Time: 12-5 PM
Location: Children’s Conservatory at Allan Gardens on the west side of the park by Jarvis and Carlton - 19 Horticultural Ave
|
St James Town Pebble Mosaic Workshops |
The St James Town Neighbourhood Association has been approved for city funding to create and install three mosaic art projects in the community! They are working with ReDefine Arts on the project and want YOU to participate!
About the workshops:
- Free to attend! ● All are welcome! ● All ages!
- No experience necessary!
- Inclusive, collaborative & fully accessible.
- Interdisciplinary public art making & community building.
- No commitment required. Join one or all workshops... it's up to you.
- Spread the word! Share this opportunity with your friends, family & neighbours.
Where and When:
-
Design Workshops
- Monday, July 21 from 5:30 – 7:30 PM at Wellesley Community Centre (495 Sherbourne Street)
- Wednesday, July 23 from 6 – 8 PM at Hugh Garner Co-op (550 Ontario Street)
- Saturday, July 26 from 2 – 4 PM at Diane Frankling Co-op (85 Bleecker Street)
- Mosaic Design Feedback
- Thursday, August 7 from 6 – 8 PM at Diane Frankling Co-op (85 Bleecker Street)
-
Final Design Presentation
- Saturday, August 9 from 12 – 2 PM at Wellesley Community Centre (495 Sherbourne Street)
-
Mosaic Building
- Monday, August 25 from 4 – 7 PM at Winchester Park (530 Ontario Street)
- Tuesday, August 26 from 4 – 7 PM at Winchester Park (530 Ontario Street)
- RAIN DATE: Thursday, August 28, 4 – 7 PM at Winchester Park (530 Ontario Street)
-
Unveiling Celebration
- Thursday, October 2 at 4:00 PM in Winchester Park (530 Ontario Street)
| Under the Stars in Regent Park |
Pre-show activities begin at 7:30 PM.
Films start at sundown.
Audiences are encouraged to arrive early, bring a picnic blanket, and gather friends and family to grab a great spot for opening night.
This year’s Under the Stars lineup has already earned rave reviews from Letterboxd users. From a bold reimagining of the Iranian road-trip genre to a charming rom-com featuring a meet-cute at a Hindu temple, the 2025 selection promises unforgettable stories and standout cinema.
Date: July 23
Location: Regent Park
Get ready for another incredible summer of movies Under the Stars! Check out the local movie line-up here.
| Ecocraft Market |
Join the St. James Town Community Corner for a day of creativity and conscious crafting at the Ecocraft Market. Browse crafts handmade by locals and take home some treasures!
Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
Time: 3:30-6 PM
Location: The Corner, 240 Wellesley Street
| Switching Regent(s): A Creative Exploration of Bridging Queerly in Regent Park |
The Switch Collective is offering a creative workshop/art jam on Saturday, July 26, 3-7 PM, at Studio 1 on the ground floor of Daniels Spectrum. All levels of creative confidence & experience are extremely welcome!
The workshop will bring together a group of LGBTQ+ artists & Regent Park residents to:
- Collectively experimenting with movement, words and song, both in a studio and on the streets of Regent Park
- Exploring the themes of bridging distance between different communities, queer migration, and the past, present & future of life in Regent Park
- Learning about the Switch Methodology’s approach to creating queer, roving, street performance art
- Creatively manifesting our queer wishes for Regent Park
Snacks will be provided, along with dinner at 7 pm. This is not currently a masked event, but that may change based on group needs.
Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
Time: 3 PM - 7 PM
Location: Studio 1, ground floor of Daniels Spectrum
RSVP before Tuesday, July 22 by filling out this form
After the workshop, Switch Collective & collaborators will do a public share of song, audio & movement based on their previous work in the park and influenced by the workshop. It will take place outside in Regent Park, by the Aquatic Centre.
| Moss Park Summer Festival |
Join your Moss Park Neighbours for a celebration of summer! Enjoy a BBQ, live music, games, a raffle, photo booth, balloons, and community resources all in one place!
Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
Time: 1 PM - 4 PM
Location: Green Space - Queen Street E and Ontario Street Intersection
| Get Started in Canada - Newcomer Women |
Get Started in Canada- Newcomer Women program is designed to support newcomer women in setting meaningful goals and strengthening their employability skills, while also providing the opportunity to earn micro-certificates.
Program overview:
Name: Get Started in Canada
Dates: Aug 11 - Oct 3, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM to 2:45 PM
Days: Mondays and Thursdays (virtual)
Tuesdays and Wednesdays (in-person at Dundas & Kipling location)
What you will get:
- Micro-certificates such as WHMIS, Business Writing, Customer Service, and more
- Goal-setting support and enhanced job search skills
- Increased confidence and workplace communication skills
To apply, fill out the form here.
| RAW Design Student Summer Camp |
Registration is open for RAW’s Diversity in Design Summer Camp! Running August 25–29, this is a free, week-long camp for Black, Indigenous, and racialized youth in grades 6–12. The goal is to introduce young people to architecture and design through creative, hands-on workshops, walking tours, design challenges, and conversations about how design shapes our communities.
The camp includes:
- Daily workshops (10 AM – 3 PM) at RAW’s studio near Ossington and Dupont
- Lunch, snacks, and TTC support as needed
- Mentorship from architects and designers
- Portfolio review and post-secondary prep for grade 11/ 12 high school students
Interested families or students can contact Carrie at [email protected] for more information and to register.
