July 26, 2024 Newsletter
Dear Friend,
This week has been a busy week in terms of high-level political news. President Joe Biden is not running for re-election, the Bank of Canada dropped interest rates by 0.25%, and LCBO workers reached a deal that reopened stores this past Tuesday.
But, you know all of that already. I am here to shed light on the happenings at Queen’s Park and in our local communities that you may have missed in the news.
So here is what you need to know:
On Tuesday and Wednesday this week, I was back at Queen’s Park for the Committee Study on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). These days were incredibly sobering, and I am so thankful to the witnesses who took time away from their critical frontline and research work to speak to the government yet again about things that are largely known and already contained in reports delivered to our government years ago. That said, I am learning a lot about the nuances of the issue and clear themes are solidifying.
Over four days of consultations, we heard heartbreaking stories of our system failing survivors despite advocates' best efforts. There were moments of hope when witnesses shared their program successes with us.
Themes continue to emerge, including the call for a funded provincial framework to end IPV:
- Implementation - The government must act on the excellent advice and best practices shared through this consultation, many of which are decades old but never implemented.
- Transparency - The government must be open and honest about how funding decisions are being made and why survivors continue to be inadequately supported.
- Accountability - The government and the sector must be held accountable to each other so Ontario can stop failing survivors and their families.
- Public Education - Ontarians need to know what the warning signs are for IPV and what to do if they experience it or see it.
- Awareness and Training - Professionals, including first responders and frontline workers, need to understand the IPV risk factors and be able to respond appropriately. Perpetrators and those at risk of harming also need training and support to heal and develop skills to stop violent behaviour.
Witnesses have also said prevention is by far the best way to combat intimate partner and gender-based violence and gave three broad themes around prevention:
- Training and support for men and boys around developing healthy masculinity, positive parenting skills, and becoming male allies is critical to stopping IPV before it starts.
- Combating poverty and enhancing access to basic resources is IPV prevention. Food insecurity, unemployment, economic stress, and housing instability are all risk factors for IPV that can be reduced with broad anti-poverty initiatives.
- Family violence is a generational trauma. If we can prevent it today, we can prevent it for the next generation. We must also recognize that being violent is often a response to having experienced family violence and that perpetrators need trauma-informed support to change.
I am eternally grateful to the witnesses who shared their time, expertise, and emotional labour with us. They do unimaginably complex and delicate work for the betterment of our communities. Their work enables us to understand what needs to be done to end IPV and how to implement it.
Trigger warning: Sexual assault, lack of care and resources
On Wednesday, I was told a story by presenters from the Nishnabe Aski First Nation. They told me about a young woman who was sexually assaulted in her fly-in community and was waiting for a sexual assault kit to be administered. When a survivor is waiting like this, they are not able to change their clothes or wash themselves at all, as their body is a crime scene. In this survivor’s fly-in community, there were no healthcare professionals who could administer the sexual assault kit for her. She was forced to wait for a plane to take her to Winnipeg, where the kit would be done. She waited for three days for that flight without bathing or changing her clothes after she was raped. After three days, no flight was available, so she gave up.
This story went straight to my heart, and I found it difficult to speak about it after it was shared. I can only imagine what that brave young woman experienced over those three days, and I hope she was surrounded by care during that time. Survivors like her are why I am so passionate about this work. We must do better. I will do everything I can to force this government to do better.
This morning, I attended a press conference at Queen’s Park hosted by the African Canadian Collective (ACC), a group of agencies, housing providers, and churches working together since last year to call attention to the horrible plight of African migrants and asylum seekers in Ontario. It’s the one year anniversary since this group gathered outside of Toronto’s Central Shelter Intake at 129 Peter Street to demand that all governments do more to address the refugee crisis. One by one, today’s speakers came forward to share the hardships of those who came to Canada looking for safety and a new life. Many African asylum seekers have left their home countries to escape anti-LGBTQI legislation, leading to punishing violence and imprisonment.
Unlike his swift response to the Ukrainian war and offer of funding and support to Ukrainian refugees, Ford has never acknowledged the African refugee crisis in Ontario cities. The double standard and anti-Black racism from Ford must be called out.
It’s clear that Ford has failed to address the housing and refugee crises by not adequately funding the provincial portion of the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit, which has run out of provincial funding since March of this year. Even more so, it’s a missed opportunity that Ford can not recognize that we have a labour workforce educated, trained, and ready to work living in shelters and church basements. They cannot work and successfully settle in their new province without a stable home.
On the evening of July 18, we learned the heartbreaking news that one of our neighbours was struck and killed by a vehicle while crossing the street at Queen and Sackville. A few days later, it was confirmed that the person we lost was Bilkis Khanam, a mother of three who was nine months pregnant with her fourth child. She and her unborn baby were killed while bringing food to her sister-in-law, who was working at St. Paul Catholic School — illustrative of the kind and caring person that Bilkis was throughout her life.
This tragedy is beyond anything I can imagine, and my heart goes out to Bilkis’ three children, her husband, extended family and all of her loved ones who I know are missing her dearly right now. You can learn more about how to support the family here.
Life is precious, and I ask you to pray for Bilkis’s family tonight and in the weeks ahead.
Finally, I would like to share a joyful announcement with you!
Rastafest is Canada’s largest celebration of Rastafari heritage and culture, and they are launching an exciting new festival in our riding of Toronto Centre. Rastafest Regent Park, presented by The Daniels Corporation, is hosting a community launch next Friday, August 2, from 1 to 3 PM at Daniels Spectrum. This free event will give us an early peek into the award-winning musical lineup, headlining the main festival stage on September 7, 2024.
Rastafest Regent Park, presented by The Daniels Corporation, is an inclusive, multi-disciplined, family-friendly event highlighting different aspects of Rastafari and Reggae culture. The festival draws from the rich and diverse Rastafari lifestyle, culture, and history.
I want to thank Masani Montague of Rastafest, Mitch Cohen and Heela Omarkhail from Daniels Corporation, the Cohen Family Foundation, the Councillor’s Office, and the City of Toronto Music Office for working together to bring Rastafest to Regent Park. We can’t wait to celebrate this new cultural jewel with you.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In this Newsletter |
- 77 Howard St. Electrical Failure, Letter to WPSQ
- Ford Underspending By Billions on Healthcare, Education
- LCBO Workers Reach Deal, End Strike
- Changes to Toronto’s Short-Term Rentals Bylaws
- ODSP and GAINS Rate Changes
- Coffee Cups Now Accepted in Toronto Blue Boxes
- New Rules for Dogs Traveling Across U.S. Border
- This Week’s Headlines
- Local Community News
| 77 Howard Street Electrical Failure, Letter to WPSQ |
While I am pleased to hear that auxiliary power from external generators has enabled some semblance of everyday life for the tenants, many continue to worry about the building's long-term safety, maintenance, and operations. In consultation with tenants, I have written to the landlord, Wellesley Parliament Square seeking rent abatements, reimbursements of all expenses caused by the flooding and power outage, a freeze on rental increases for 2025, the honouring of existing leases for those who had to relocate, as well as urging them to prioritize repairs and renovations of damaged units.
The requested measures are necessary to support residents during this immense hardship. Their cooperation with my office and the tenants will significantly impact the well-being of all those living at 77 Howard Street.
I recognize that WPSQ is working hard to fix the electrical system at 77 Howard. Emergency responses have improved since the catastrophic disaster at 650 Parliament and the electrical outage at 280 Wellesley. However, property managers' and owners' responsibilities remain unchanged — more can be done to support the tenants.
If you are a tenant and are unsure what to do next, please contact my office.
|
Ford Underspending by Billions on Healthcare & Education |
This week, the Financial Accountability Office (FAO) released its latest review of government spending, which revealed that the government failed to spend $7.8 billion of its budget last year, including $1.3 billion less in healthcare spending than planned.
Those billions could have gone to recruiting and retaining nurses, fixing our schools, and building affordable housing. Instead, that funding was held back. That is shameful.
Ford loves a flashy photo op and a promise to invest in public services, but he never follows through. Over a billion dollars have been left unspent in the health sector, while ERs are closing, and hospitals are facing deficits across the province.
Ford has the resources to fix what is broken in Ontario. He knows he can make life better for you and your family. He doesn’t want to do it and must be held accountable.
|
LCBO Workers Reach a Deal, End Strike |
I am so proud of LCBO workers who stood strong in the name of good jobs and funding for public services and won an excellent contract for themselves and the people of Ontario.
These workers have put their livelihoods on the line for the past two weeks to protect billions of dollars that go into services like healthcare and education from LCBO revenues. Their victory on Sunday night makes me hopeful. When we come together, we can protect our public services and create good jobs in our communities.
I am also relieved that a solution was reached. I know many small businesses in Toronto Centre were concerned about being able to access the alcohol products that they rely on for their bar services during those busy summer patio months. I am thrilled that this week, the LCBO’s operations started to return to normal for wholesale customers and those who pop into our local stores for refreshments before gathering with family and friends.
|
Changes to Toronto's Short-Term Rental By-Laws |
The City of Toronto has made changes to short-term rentals, which will come into effect in three phases on June 30, 2024, September 30, 2024 and January 1, 2025. You can read more details here. Highlights include enhanced safety information for guests, additional checks to ensure that the property being rented out is indeed the operator’s principal residence, and banning licensed multi-tenant house operators from applying for a license.
Operators can find more information in the updated Good Operator Guide. Cracking down on unlicensed short-term rentals is key to tackling Toronto’s housing crisis and making more units available for residents. I am proud of the city's leadership on this file and know that we will feel the benefits in our communities.
|
ODSP and GAINS Rate Changes |
In 2023, the Ontario government agreed to raise Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) rates every July. On July 31, ODSP recipients should see a 4.5% increase in their monthly payment from $1308 to $1368. The increase only applies to core amounts and does not apply to several other ODSP benefits, including the Remote Communities Allowance, Special Diet Allowance, and the Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Nutritional Allowance.
The Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS) is a program run by the Government of Ontario for seniors living on a low income. On July 1, 2024, the most a single senior can get went up from $83 to $87 monthly. For couples, the amount went up from $166 to $174 a month.
If you think you qualify for GAINS but are not receiving it, call the Ontario Ministry of Finance at 1-866-668-8297, TTY: 1-800-263-7776.
These increases are paltry and don’t come anywhere near meeting the needs of people with disabilities or seniors in our province. I will continue to push for the doubling of ODSP and far greater support for low-income seniors.
| Coffee Cups Accepted Now in Toronto Blue Boxes |
As of July 3, 2024, Toronto residents can recycle beverage cups at home and other eligible locations! This is so exciting! Click here to learn more about the pilot project.
Please follow these instructions for easier sorting and processing at the recycling facility:
- Rinse the cup: Empty your cup of any remaining liquids and give them a quick rinse to remove any residue.
- Separate components: Remove lids, sleeves, and any other accessories from the cups and place them loosely in your recycling bin.
- Loose placement: Place the cups loosely in the recycling bin, without stacking or nesting them together.
|
New Rules for Dogs Travelling Across U.S. Border |
New rules will apply to Canadians with dogs crossing the U.S. border starting August 1st. You can read all of the fine print here.
The Canadian government is asking to be exempted from these new rules, but in the meantime, here is what you need to know before you head south:
- Dogs must be at least six months old
- Dogs must be microchipped
- Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies
- You must complete a CDC Dog Import Form.
- You will require a clear photo of the dog showing its face and body.
- Dogs younger than one year old must have the photo taken within ten days.
Rabies Documentation
- Dog owners must have a Documentation of Canadian-Issued Rabies Vaccination signed by a Canadian licensed veterinarian.
- Dogs must be microchipped and certified that the dog has been vaccinated for rabies.
Canadian dogs that have visited a high-risk country in the last six months will be denied entry. If you do not meet the requirements, your dog will not be allowed to enter the U.S. and will be sent back at your expense.
| This Week's Headlines |
- They’re the gold standard of care for severe mental illness. So why doesn’t Ontario fund more of them?
- Ontario Science Centre survives severe rainstorm despite fears over roof
- Toronto’s Ombudsman reports on first year of office’s new Housing Unit, underscores human right to housing
- Ford Government Silent on Future of King’s Counsel
| Upcoming Community Events |
| Dixon Hall Farmers’ Market |
Dixon Hall is launching their Farmers’ Market flyer market. This unique market works on the “Pay What You Can” model.
Dates: Every other Thursday (Aug 15, Aug 29, Sept 12, Sept 26)
Time: 3 PM until sold out!
Location: 190 Carlton Street
Farmers Market Quick Facts:
- PWYC Model: Choose your price, from $5 to $20, ensuring everyone can access fresh food.
- Community Engagement: Enjoy fresh produce, lively activities, and music, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Dixon Hall needs volunteers to help them organize the market, help out today!
|
Taste of Regent Park |
Date: Every Wednesday, from July 3rd – September 4th, 2024
Location: The Big Park | Bake Oven
Time: 5 PM-8 PM
Last Wednesday the community came together to enjoy mac and cheese for only $5. My team and I will be there with special guest Marit Stiles next week on Wednesday, July 31. Come see what they'll be serving this week, and stop by to say hello!
Learn more here.
| Regent Park Under the Stars Movie Nights |
Ready for the ultimate movie night under the stars?
🍿🌟 Regent Park Film Festival’s annual outdoor screening series is back!
July 24: Crooklyn
July 31: Queen of My Dreams
📅 Save the dates: Wednesdays July 24, 31
🕢 Time: Pre-show kicks off at 7:30 PM | Movie starts at sundown (~9 PM)
📍 Location: The Big Park in Regent Park (600 Dundas St E)
All Under the Stars events are free and open to the public (not ticketed), thanks to generous donations.
| ArtHeart - Summer Drop-In for Children, Youth, Family |
Dates: Mondays-Thursdays, July 8 – August 29
Times: 3:30-5:30 PM
Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)
Join ArtHeart this summer for drop-in summer arts programming! Children, youth and family arts will run Mondays-Thursdays (note that some Thursdays will be Family Field Trips days and may start earlier - please enquire)!
A one-time application is required. Click here or email us at [email protected] for the application.
This summer, participants will explore painting, sculpture, paper crafts, and more! Nourishing snacks and refreshments are provided.
| ArtHeart – Seniors and Adults |
Seniors Program (55+)
Date: Every Monday
Time: 10 AM - 12:45 PM
Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)
Adults Program (16+)
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)
Join ArtHeart for our year-round open art studio for adults and seniors! Participants are welcome to attend both sessions.
Enjoy an open, welcoming environment to meet like-minded creative people! Warm meals are provided during programming.
| Dixon Hall’s Next Step Program |
Dixon Hall is launching their Next Step skills-based training program for those seeking meaningful employment in Toronto’s Downtown East. This program is being launched in partnership with George Brown College’s Continuing Education Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts. The program innovatively combines theoretical learning with hands-on training, preparing participants for successful careers in the dynamic culinary and food industry.
Key benefits of the program include:
- Innovative Learning: Hybrid courses that blend online education with practical, in-kitchen experiences.
- Earn Certifications: Gain industry-recognized certifications that ensure you have the skills needed for a thriving career.
- 1-on-1 Employment Assistance: Personalized support from employment advisors to ensure you’re job-ready upon completion.
| Low-Income Energy Assistance Program |
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program offers grants to Toronto residents who are behind on their hydro payments and receive support from Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This initiative is a collaboration between the City of Toronto, Neighbourhood Information Post (NIP), and partner agencies.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Residency: Must live in Toronto
- Income: Must meet low-income guidelines
- Utility Bills: Must have a recent “past due” Toronto Hydro bill or a disconnection notice from the utility provider
- Additional Requirements: Must meet other program criteria
Please note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee a grant approval, and additional documentation may be required.
Learn more here.
| Free Daily Swimming at Wellesley Community Centre |
Did you know that Wellesley Community Centre has a new indoor pool? And it is free to use every day!
Wellesley pool offers FREE drop-in access to all ages:
- ️Open leisure swim
- ️Aquafit classes
- ️Lane swimming
- ️Women's only leisure swim
- ️2SLGBTQ+ friendly inclusive leisure swim
Check out the schedules here
| 2 Spirit Healing Drumming |
Join The Circle of Cedar Singers for 2 Spirit Healing Drumming sessions:
- Dates: Tuesdays from July 23 to October 29
- Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church St.
All are welcome to watch or join in (bring your own drum). For more details, email [email protected]
| Trans Youth Mentorship Program (TYMP) |
The 519 invites 2 Spirit, trans, and gender-diverse youth ages 16 to 29 to join the Trans Youth Mentorship Program:
- Dates: Wednesdays, July 24 to November 20
- Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Location: The 519, 519 Church St.
This program provides a supportive space to build life skills, find support, and foster community.
Register by July 15 here. For questions, contact [email protected]
| Mental Health Matters Planter Decorating Workshop |
Mental Health Matters is opening registration for their free Planter customization workshop on July 27 from 2 - 4 PM at the 150 River Street Party Room.
Through this workshop, individuals can paint or customize their basketball planter. Participants will receive a plant, the planter, and a planter stand to take home. Light refreshments and food will be provided, as well as an MHM t-shirt!
Eligibility for this program:
- Must be a self-identifying woman
- Between the ages of 17-30
- Must reside in Regent Park, Moss Park, St. James Town, Esplanade or the Don Mount.
By joining this program, you consent to your photos/videos being taken for our outreach purposes.
If you are interested, please register by clicking here!
Latest posts
Dear Emma,
Yesterday, the Ford government tabled their lacklustre Fall Economic Statement. This is a “mini budget,” and this year it was smaller and more underwhelming than usual. The statement fundamentally fails to deliver the kind of plan that Ontarians need as the cost of living rises, the job crisis worsens, and the housing crisis deepens.
All anyone in Ontario wants is stability and a chance to get ahead. All we want is a government that supports individuals and families to meet their own needs. But instead, Ontario’s unemployment is the highest in a decade, and our housing starts are at their lowest over the same period. By every measure, this government is failing.
This failure is so frustrating to me. Ford has the opportunity to deliver policy and a budget that offers people hope: a real jobs plan, lower costs, and investments that strengthen our communities and public services. Instead, this government is cutting healthcare and education (simultaneously gutting public services and shedding jobs) while shovelling money out the door to their lobbyist friends through the Skills Development Fund (including companies that operate strip clubs).
Unemployment is at 7.8% and 1 in 5 young people are without a job, yet this government’s jobs plans are their scandal-ridden Skills Development Fund and tax cuts for big businesses. To weather this storm, we need bold ideas that put workers first and strengthen our communities.
I am proud to be a part of the Ontario NDP Caucus and stand behind the solutions we are putting forward. The Ontario NDP is urging the Ford government to prioritize:
- Protecting and creating good jobs by expanding supports for local manufacturing, small businesses, and Ontario’s critical resource sectors.
- Investing in social infrastructure such as housing, health care, education, and childcare, to attract and retain workers while creating jobs in those very sectors.
- Building economic security by increasing social assistance rates, expanding public pharmacare and mental health care, and investing in municipalities to prevent job loss and homelessness.
I will continue to push these priorities forward. Nothing is more critical than Ontarians accessing safe and appropriate housing, high-quality public services, and meaningful jobs.
It is upsetting to me that, instead of actually helping people, this government seems most interested in helping their friends, skirting accountability, and spending as little time in the legislature as possible. You can read more about their upsetting conduct below.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- PCs Seize Control of Intimate Partner Violence Study
- When Will Minister Piccini Stop the Gravy Train?
- Bills 60 and 33 Rammed Through Without Consultation
- Join my Youth Council!
- Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Party - You’re Invited!
- Ministries of the Attorney General and Solicitor General Estimates
- Unelected School Supervisors Paid $350,000
- Parliament Street Rooming Houses Revitalization
- This Week’s Meetings
- What’s Making Headlines
- Local Community Events
| PCs Seize Control of Intimate Partner Violence Study |
This week was a rollercoaster on the intimate partner violence epidemic declaration front.
On Thursday morning, the government moved a motion to declare intimate partner violence (IPV) as endemic in Ontario. It passed. The NDP moved for the 5th time, our motion to declare IPV an epidemic. The government voted against our motion, defeating - yet again - an opportunity to declare IPV an epidemic, a declaration that organizations and experts have been calling for for years.
I am cautiously hopeful that this endemic declaration will be helpful to survivors and come with funding and increased government attention to the issue of IPV. I will continue to work with lawyers and feminists in the IPV-prevention sector to understand the implications of this new word and how we can continue to push the government. It is disappointing that the government has decided to turn its back on the 106 municipalities, 150+ community organizations, and numerous police forces that have declared this epidemic. The fact that they chose a different word makes it feel like they care more about blocking the NDP’s efforts than about the wishes of survivors and experts. This government was invited to join an established movement but chose not to. This is disappointing, but I am still looking forward to working with them.
Just before all of the above occurred, on Wednesday night, the government moved another motion to direct the IPV sub-committee to meet and consider a draft committee report. That is standard. However, what is not standard is that the report we are being asked to consider was written solely by PC MPP Jess Dixon. It is highly irregular that any MPP, let alone a government member acting alone, would write a committee report. That is a job reserved for non-partisan committee clerks, professional staff who are highly experienced at writing these reports in a balanced and non-partisan manner. I asked several clerks whether this had ever been done before. Not one of the legislative clerks could recall a time when an MPP had written a draft committee report.
I had the opportunity to speak to this motion in the Legislature, which you can watch here.
I have not yet seen this report. There is a possibility that it is balanced, however, there is a real risk that it is not and that worries me. All of the report consideration and editing will be done in committee “in closed session,” meaning that the public will not be able to observe and I will not be able to share anything about how decisions were made or what was altered from the original draft. This is typical of report writing, but remember that it is also typical that the report is written by non-partisan staff. I am concerned about this entire process being so removed from the public, especially since the committee is made up of a majority of government members.
I will continue to bring you updates on this process, sharing what I am allowed to share, over the next few weeks.
| When Will Minister Piccini Stop the Gravy Train? |
| Bills 60 and 33 Rammed Through Without Consultation |
This week Ford used a time allocation motion so that he can ram Bill 60 and Bill 33 through Queen’s Park. Time allocation motions drastically shorten the time that a bill is required to be debate. In this case, it will allow Ford to skip the public consultation and committee amendments process.
Both of these bills are incredibly flawed and require significant changes in order to actually benefit Ontarians. However, because of this undemocratic move by Ford’s PCs, they will be sent for final votes without any changes. To quote York – South Weston Tenants Union's founder Chiara Padovani, "The fact that the government doesn’t want to have the public consultations is because they know the public is adamantly opposed."
I will continue to speak up against these bills in the Legislature. If you have stories about how you or your loved ones would be affected by these changes to housing and education, please reply to this email. I would love to hear from you and share your story in the Legislature.
|
Join my Youth Council! |
Are you between the age of 17-25 with a passion for politics, policy, and community building? Apply to the Toronto Centre Youth Council to have your voice heard on provincial issues.
Join Our First Session - pizza provided!
Date: November 26, 2025
Time: 4:45-6PM
Location: 120 Carlton St, Unit 401
Apply now: kristyn.ca/youth-council
| Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Party - You’re Invited! |
Get ready for a fabulous Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Park with lunch, prize giveaways, entertainment, festive cheer, and, of course, surprise VIP guests!
Date: December 7, 2025
Time: 1 PM - 4 PM
Location: Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
All are welcome, including Santa’s little helpers. Please register here to reserve your seats.
|
Ministries of the Attorney General and Solicitor General Estimates |
This week, I attended Estimates hearings for both the Ministry of the Attorney General (responsible for courts and tribunals) and the Ministry of the Solicitor General (responsible for jails, policing, and first responders). Estimates is a time when the Ministries open up their budget books and show the public how much they are planning to spend, alongside how much they have historically spent.
Estimates hearings are excellent opportunities to hold Ministers directly accountable for the actions and priorities of their Ministries. They are something that I look forward to all year!
This year, I had the opportunity to interrogate the Attorney General about the unacceptable backlogs in our courts and tribunals, asking him how and where he was making investments to speed up processing times for tenants, landlords, human rights claimants, victims of crime, and those waiting in jail for their hearings. As usual I was given evasive answers, but I also got under the Attorney General’s skin. I am hopeful that I will continue to make him uncomfortable enough to take action on behalf of all of the people who are waiting for their hearing dates.
| Unelected School Supervisors Paid $350,000 |
Remember those unelected school board supervisors that Education Minister Paul Calandra installed in the TDSB, TCDSB, and other boards across Ontario? The ones with zero experience in teaching, education, or school board administration?
Recent estimates hearings have revealed that they are being paid $2,000 per day, three days per week. That means that they are being paid up to $350,000 a year by us, the taxpayers, to ignore parents and students. Meanwhile democratically elected trustees are no longer being paid at all and have been stripped of the ability to do their jobs.
What more, these “supervisors” don't respond to parent emails or phone calls, they don’t attend committee meetings, and they won't answer media questions. What are they doing all day?
It is shameful that they are collecting these lucrative salaries while refusing to engage with the people they’re supposed to serve. Ontario families deserve transparency, accountability, and local representation, not government buddies collecting six-figure salaries to silence local voices.
| Parliament Street Rooming Houses Revitalization |
What a milestone! On Tuesday, I was thrilled to celebrate Dixon Hall as they officially opened their newly renovated Parliament Street Rooming Houses. This revitalization includes the meticulous heritage restoration of four contiguous Victorian properties as well as wraparound supports to ensure that the vulnerable people housed here will be successful.
I visited the site last year and it was inspiring to see all the progress their team has made since then. It’s heartwarming to know community members will be able to step out of homelessness into safe, dignified, and supportive housing with the help and support of Dixon Hall. This is exactly what our communities need!
| This Week's Meetings |
- Ontario Trial Lawyers Association
- Innovative Medicines Canada
- Association des conseils scolaires des écoles publiques de l’Ontario (ACÉPO)
- Ontario Book Publishers Organization
- Better Way Alliance
- Ontario Nurse Practitioners Association
- Hospice Palliative Care Ontario
- Bellwood Toronto & EHN Canada
- Toronto Drop-In Network
| This Week's Headlines |
Toronto councillor, fire chief want regulations increased for lithium-ion batteries
Doug Ford quietly kills Toronto’s green roof bylaw
St. James Town apartment fire sends 3 to hospital
A look at Cabbagetown's newly renovated rooming homes
Toronto police release detailed data on intimate partner violence for the 1st time
Toronto mayor announces new plan to improve TTC safety
Fall fiscal update shows projections for new home construction slowing down in Ontario
| Upcoming Community Events |
| CWNA’s Welcome Winter Open House |
The Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association (CWNA) invites community members to take part in their monthly executive meeting followed by the 2nd Annual Welcome Winter Open House this Saturday Nov 8th. All are welcome to attend.
Executive Meeting: 10 AM - 12 PM
To join, please email info@cwna to confirm your participation.
Welcome Winter Open House: 1 - 3 PM
Help usher in the season with hot chocolate, coffee, treats, and community cheer, while supporting a wonderful local initiative.
Donate new children’s mittens and hats to decorate the Mitten Tree — all gifts will go to students at Church Street Public School.
CWNA is also collecting gently used adult winter outerwear to share with neighbours in need.
Last year, the community donated over 130 pairs of mittens and hats — let’s make this year’s event even warmer!
|
Remembrance Day at the St James’ Cemetery |
Join the Cabbagetown community as they come together to honour and remember those who have served and sacrificed for our country. The annual Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place at St James’ Cemetery, featuring a traditional service with music, hymns, readings, and the laying of wreaths.
Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Location: St. James’ Cemetery, 635 Parliament Street, Toronto ON
Doors: 9:45 AM
Ceremony: 10:00 AM - the ceremony will begin promptly.
This meaningful community gathering offers a moment of reflection and gratitude, uniting neighbours, veterans, and local representatives in remembrance.
Following the ceremony and wreath laying, historian Gilles Hout of the Cabbagetown Preservation Association will lead a guided walking tour of veteran graves within St. James’ Cemetery. Attendees will be invited to place poppies at individual headstones as a personal act of remembrance.
Complimentary coffee, tea, pastries, and cookies will be available for attendees, generously provided by Daniel et Daniel Catering & Events and McDonald’s.
| The Children's Book Bank Story Soirée |
The Children's Book Bank is inviting you to their Story Soirée on November 13, from 5:30-8:30PM. This fundraiser event will celebrate 17 years of impact and support the continued growth of Book Bank locations across the city.
This elegant fundraiser features:
- CBB Champions Awards Ceremony
- Live musical performances
- Engage with children’s authors and illustrators
- Food and drinks
- Live silent auction
With a goal of raising $50,000, your ticket helps bring books and literacy programs to children across our communities.
Story Soirée Event Details:
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 5:30 - 8:30pm
Location: Ada Slaight Hall, 585 Dundas St E
| Little Trinity Christmas Market |
Little Trinity Church invites community members to join in the holiday spirit at the second annual Little Trinity Christmas Market, held in collaboration with the Good Food Market.
Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, local treats, and holiday shopping:
- Live Music: Come enjoy seasonal performances by Dr. Ben!
- Free Goodies: Take a load off and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, apple cider, and yummy treats!
- Unique Gifts: Do your holiday shopping and pick up some unique hand-made gifts for your loved ones!
- Groceries: Stop by our regular produce market, offering high quality fruits and veggies at wholesale prices!
All proceeds will go to Good Shepherd Ministries, a local organization that serves over 1000 meals a day to those in need.
Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Time: 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Location: Little Trinity Church
| Regent Park Youth Safety & Well-Being Forum |
The Regent Park Youth Safety & Well-Being Forum is a community-driven initiative that fosters a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for young people in Regent Park to engage in open conversations about safety, security, and mental health.
This forum encourages self-reflection, community connection, and helps youth access real-world support systems to promote overall well-being.
Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
Open to all youth residents of Regent Park.
| Ontario Legislative Page Program |
The recruitment period for the Spring 2026 session of the Legislative Page Program is now open until November 15, 2025.
Each year, high-achieving, community-oriented Grade 7 and 8 students from across Ontario are chosen to serve as Legislative Pages. This unique opportunity in Toronto allows selected students to become involved in Ontario’s parliamentary process, meet key figures, and make lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.
More information can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact the Page Program at [email protected] or by phone at (416) 325-7457.
| Apply for $5,000 to support your community-led project! |
As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), they are providing the opportunity to apply for a grant that supports resident-led projects. These projects can encourage local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic 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.
Find out more by clicking here!
| Rosemary Brown Racial Justice Awards - Nominations Open |
Nominations for the 2026 Rosemary Brown Racial Justice Awards are now open until January 15. If you know a changemaker in your community who deserves recognition, please consider submitting a nomination using this form.
Who Can Be Nominated:
There are four categories: Individual, Group, Women, and Youth (under 25). Any Ontario resident, or Ontario-based organization, group, or initiative may be nominated. This includes educators, writers, community workers, social and political activists, social action groups, trade unions, youth organizations, multicultural organizations, schools, coalitions, professional associations, media, and service clubs.
The award ceremony will be held in March 2026.
Dear friend,
Happy Hallowe'en and let's go Blue Jays!
This is one of my favourite times of the year and made even more special because of Game 6. If our beloved Toronto Blue Jays hold off the LA Dodgers tonight, Hallowe’en parties are going to get even more boisterous with the World Series Championship win!
Do be careful when driving and make sure to watch out for the little ghouls and goblins crossing the streets at night. Watching kids proudly parade in their costumes with heavy bags of hard-earned candy is heart-melting joy for this parent. I’m excited to be trick-or-treating with my son this evening.
There are many Hallowe'en parties happening across the province and the biggest one will be right here in Toronto Centre. I encourage everyone to come out to Hallowe'en on Church tonight in the Church-Wellesley Village to take in the incredible creativity on display, enjoy performances, and support our local businesses. I am wishing everyone a safe and happy Hallowe'en full of fun tricks and sweet treats!
Unfortunately this week, Doug Ford and his devilish government lost their souls and had us debating heartless legislation. From removing tenant protections to banning speed cameras to weakening our democracy, they created a real house of horrors.
But as you likely know, Ford quickly backpedaled away (for now) his plan to end month-to-month leases for residential tenants after MPPs received hundreds of thousands of emails and calls from frightened and angry tenants worried they could lose their homes. This is proof of the power that tenants have and the ways that your voice matters! If you all had not shared your rage, consultations on the removal of month-to-month leases would still be going forward. I am especially proud of the thousands of Toronto Centre tenants who reached out to my office. Thank you for sharing your stories with me. I'm still working hard to reply to each and every single one of you.
This week I asked the Attorney General directly why he would threaten the very foundation of affordable housing in Ontario. He dodged the question, which you can watch here. I also had the opportunity to provide my full comments on Bill 60 this week. This government bill aims to weaken tenant protections. You can watch my speech, which includes the stories of many tenants who wrote in, here.
Bill 60 is still damaging omnibus legislation that will erode tenant protections (in addition to many other areas), allowing the Landlord Tenant Board to evict tenants faster by reducing the amount of time they have to pay their arrears to seven days and find a lawyer to just 14. These timelines are unreasonable for most tenants as they advantage wealthy corporate landlords with in-house lawyers and Bay Street law firms on retainer. Bill 60 will result in the termination of tenancies that could have been saved. If you want to learn more about Bill 60, the Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario has a great explainer.
None of the changes proposed in Bill 60 will make housing safer, more affordable, or better maintained. All this bill will do is speed up evictions for our most vulnerable tenants, which will only make homelessness worse in Toronto and across Ontario. Rest assured I will be fighting it every step of the way. And you can too, by sharing your story with my office, sharing your thoughts directly with the government by deputing at committee, joining your local tenants association or an advocacy group like the Toronto Centre Tenant Union, or signing up to canvass with me here. So many groups are ready to fight and they need your voice!
It is frustrating that Ford and his Housing Minister continue to table legislation that makes life harder for tenants while ignoring the recommendations of their own Housing Task Force and other housing experts. The Ontario NDP has been promoting our Homes Ontario plan to get the government back into the business of building affordable housing for years. We are also working with legal clinics and tenant organizations to get this government to listen and bring back in-person Landlord Tenant Board Hearings. I will continue to push for legislation that makes housing more affordable to end the housing and homelessness crisis.
This week Doug Ford decided to take yet another huge swing at democracy, stating that he would soon be tabling legislation (likely in next week’s Fall Economic Statement) to scrap fixed-term elections and nearly double political donation limits. This should scare everyone.
For the past nearly 20 years, Ontario has had fixed-term election dates, giving us predictability in when elections would be held. Since 2016, Ontario’s provincial general elections has been scheduled for the first Thursday in June, four years after the last general election. Governments were free to call an election earlier if they received agreement from MPPs, but they could not schedule it later. Now Ford wants the power to call an election whenever he likes and be able to sit in government for up to five years. A five-year term is technically allowed under the Canadian constitution, but is generally not used as convention (and fixed election dates) dictate a four year term. This is just another way that Ford is trying to increase chaos and confusion while ensuring he is in power for as long as possible.
Massively increasing maximum political donations, from $3,400 to $5,000 is another way that this government is trying to cement its power. The PCs know that they have the greatest access to wealthy donors and they want to fill their bank accounts ahead of the next election. Every time that donation limits go up by more than inflationary amounts, they benefit the parties that cater to the wealthiest. It is anti-democratic and wrong – especially since individuals can donate the maximum up to three times in a year with an election: to the political party itself, a local riding association before the campaign begins, and the local candidate’s campaign during the writ period. That is $15,000 in one year with these new limits. Who has that kind of money to throw around? Certainly not most residents in Toronto Centre. I am worried that these changes will only widen economic disparities in Ontario as the Ford government becomes even more beholden to their wealthy friends and donors.
Thank you for subscribing to our weekly newsletter. If you enjoy reading it and believe others will too, please don't keep us a secret and share it with your friends and family who enjoy being kept up to date with Ontario news.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- Solicitor General Estimates Hearing
- Skilled Immigrants Left Behind
- Toronto Centre NDP AGM
- My Child Care Townhall
- 50 Years of the Ontario Ombudsman
- Homeless Connect Toronto
- Meeting with OPSEU/SEFPO Mental Health Workers
- Ontario Volunteer Service Awards
- This Week’s Meetings
- What’s Making Headlines
- Local Community Events
| Solicitor General Estimates Hearing |
Over this past week and next week, the Legislature is holding a series of committee meetings to review budgetary spending called “estimates.” Each Ministry has a separate meeting, attended by the Minister, Assistant Deputy Ministers, and select MPPs. At these meetings MPPs have an opportunity to question the Minister and his staff about estimated spending for the following fiscal year, referencing a document of estimated spending sent out beforehand.
This week I attended Estimates for the Minister of the Solicitor General, where I and my colleague Jennie Stevens questioned the Minister about overcrowding in provincial jails, the treatment of people in mental health crisis in custody, and the treatment of the whales and other animals at Marineland.
Next week I will be participating in Estimates for the Ministry of the Attorney General. I will bring you all of those updates next week.
|
Skilled Immigrants Left Behind |
Qualified workers invited by the Ontario Government to apply for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) are waiting three years for application decisions promised in six months. They are waiting so long that their work permits are expiring, resulting in them losing their jobs and their healthcare, even though their employers want them to keep working!
On Tuesday, nearly 100 OINP applicants and their families joined me at Queen’s Park, many of them skilled trades workers waiting to work on building Ontario’s much-needed housing. They filled the galleries while MPP Alexa Gilmour and I asked the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development why he was making these hardworking and people wait while employers went without their skills. You can watch the question (and the non-answer) here.
| Toronto Centre NDP AGM |
On Sunday I was thrilled to attend and participate in the Toronto Centre NDP’s Annual General Meeting. It was a huge success! We elected a new executive, received annual reports, and heard updates from our democratically elected School Board Trustee Dee WIlliams, 2025 Federal Candidate Samantha Green. I also had the chance to give an update about my work at Queen’s Park and out in the community.
We were also lucky to be joined by all five federal leadership candidates; Rob Ashton, Tanille Johnston, Avi Lewis, Heather MacPherson, and Tony McQuail. It was a treat to hear them all speak and share their vision for the party.
And of course it wouldn’t be the Toronto Centre NDP without a good social afterwards, so thank you to The Well for hosting us as we chatted the evening away!
|
My Child Care Townhall |
Thank you to all of our community members who came out to our Childcare Townhall on Wednesday night! A special thank you to our panelists Angela Zhu of Toronto Parents for Child Care, Erin Filby of Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario (AECEO), and Carolyn Ferns of Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care (OCBCC). They all shared important insight into Ontario’s childcare crisis and SAWRO ran a thought-provoking and interactive workshop about the realities and implications of our current childcare system on low income families.
With the provincial-federal childcare agreement expiring in less than 5 months, it’s crucial now more than ever to push our governments to do better, and ensure the system receives the funding needed to retain existing spaces and expand to meet the needs for working parents.
Demand that Ford sign the new $10-day child care agreement! Sign the petition here:
| 50 Years of the Ontario Ombudsman |
On Wednesday, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Ontario Ombudsman’s Office and the invaluable public service that they provide for Ontarians. The Ombudsman has revealed issues of fairness at the Landlord Tenant Board, torture at Maplehurst Correctional Complex, egregiously inappropriate housing for children in care, and much more. We are lucky to have our Ombudsman and need to ensure their ongoing independence.
I was honoured to have the opportunity to acknowledge this anniversary and thank our current Ombudsman, Paul Dubé, for his service in the Legislature. You can watch my speech here.
It is critical that the office of the Ombudsman remains impartial and properly funded, so that Ontarians can trust that the government of the day is being properly overseen and fairness is being upheld.
| Homeless Connect Toronto |
Homeless Connect Toronto’s 12th annual One-Stop-Shop was last weekend and I was so happy to stop by! I had the chance to tour the event, meet Torontonians impacted by homelessness, and see firsthand the amazing work being done by community partners providing housing, employment, and other essential supports. I am so grateful that this meaningful event happens in our community every year.
| Meeting with OPSEU/SEFPO Mental Health Workers |
Yesterday, I had an opportunity to meet with OPSEU/SEFPO’s division of Mental Health and Addictions workers, who are at the frontline of delivering compassionate mental healthcare and actively tackling Ontario’s ongoing mental health crisis.
The Ford government’s decisions to privatize healthcare services, increase staffing shortages, and ineffectively address safety and violence in these spaces have run our mental healthcare services into instability and unsafe conditions for workers and patients alike.
These workers know best what needs to be changed on the ground, and what systemic changes need to be addressed immediately. I am proud to continue to be their voice at Queens Park and advocate for the changes we need to improve mental healthcare services for all across Ontario.
| Ontario Volunteer Service Awards |
On Tuesday evening, my fellow MPPs and I had the privilege of honouring some incredible members of our community at the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards! I am so thankful to the Volunteer Recognition Unit at the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism for all of the hard work they put into organizing this event. Volunteers play significant roles in our community’s organizations and their selfless dedication must be recognized. With a combined total of 2,584 years of volunteering between this year’s award recipients, it’s safe to say these amazing superheroes must be celebrated!
| This Week's Meetings |
- United Food and Commercial Workers
- OPSEU Mental Health and Addictions Workers
- Academy of Learning Career College
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Ontario
| What's Making Headlines |
West Toronto supervised consumption site shutting down after Ford government pulls funding
Toronto’s waterfront music venue renamed RBC Amphitheatre, will close in 2027 for renos
How good is the Jays' rookie pitcher? Here's a look at Yesavage's record-breaking Game 5 stats
Ontario to consolidate conservation authorities, create new oversight agency
Ontario renters, cyclists, environmentalists concerned about Ford omnibus bill
Speed cameras across Ontario to be removed in 2 weeks, transportation minister says
| Upcoming Community Events |
| Halloween on Church |
Halloween on Church in The Village is back on October 31st from 6:30 PM to midnight! Prepare for a night of wicked fun, eerie surprises and unforgettable festivities.
Because of the massive success of Halloween on Church, the Church and Wellesley BIA has expanded to Saturday, November 1st, from 7 PM to midnight as well. Make sure you bring your spirit and your monster mash moves to Canada's biggest Halloween bash. Find out more here.
| Samhain in Corktown: Pumpkin Parade |
On November 1, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at the Sackville Playground, the Corktown Neighbourhood Association is hosting another Pumpkin Parade!
This free event is for everyone! So come out, don your scary costumes and masks and let’s all celebrate Samhain!
| Remembrance Day at the St James’ Cemetery |
Join the Cabbagetown community as they come together to honour and remember those who have served and sacrificed for our country. The annual Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place at St James’ Cemetery, featuring a traditional service with music, hymns, readings, and the laying of wreaths.
Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Location: St. James’ Cemetery, 635 Parliament Street, Toronto ON
Doors: 9:45 AM
Ceremony: 10:00 AM - the ceremony will begin promptly.
This meaningful community gathering offers a moment of reflection and gratitude, uniting neighbours, veterans, and local representatives in remembrance.
Following the ceremony and wreath laying, historian Gilles Hout of the Cabbagetown Preservation Association will lead a guided walking tour of veteran graves within St. James’ Cemetery. Attendees will be invited to place poppies at individual headstones as a personal act of remembrance.
Complimentary coffee, tea, pastries, and cookies will be available for attendees, generously provided by Daniel et Daniel Catering & Events and McDonald’s.
| Youth Justice Community Forum |
Be part of youth-centred discussions exploring barriers and supports for Black, racialized, and neurodiverse youth in the justice system.
Join Youth Justice for the Youth Justice Transformation Lab and Inclusive Justice Collaborative's Youth Justice Community Forum on November 18, 2025 at 9 AM - 5 PM at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (16 Spadina Road)!
Be part of youth-centred discussions exploring barriers and supports for Black, racialized, and neurodiverse youth in the justice system. This year, the Youth Justice Community Forum will feature discussions on current youth justice issues including how the child welfare and education systems also impact justice-involvement, Bill 33, bail reform, justice centres, how justice professionals can best support young people, and more! Hear from and connect with young people, justice professionals, community agencies, educators, and other stakeholders from the child welfare, education and youth justice systems.
Stay tuned for speaker and more event details. Law Society of Ontario EDI professionalism hours are pending and may be available for justice professionals in attendance.
For any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].
| Environmental Impacts of New AI Data Centres in Ontario |
The Environmental Registry of Ontario is inviting public feedback on the proposal “New Requirements for Data Centres Seeking to Connect to the Electricity Grid in Ontario” — open until November 4, 2025.
This consultation seeks input on the types of data centres that would be subject to new requirements, including those with large electrical connections (over 50 megawatts) and facilities located in areas where the electricity grid may be constrained or have surplus capacity.
Learn more and provide feedback through the Environmental Registry of Ontario: ERO Notice 025-1001. You can also learn more from The Narwhal’s in-depth article here on data centres and whether or not they are a potential threat to the Great Lakes.
| Newcomer Women’s Program |
Pathway to Possibilities is hosting a Newcomer Women Program. This is designed to support newcomer women in setting meaningful goals and strengthening their employability skills, while also providing the opportunity to earn micro-certificates.
This program runs from October 20 to December 12, 2025. Apply by filling out the form here.
| Ontario Legislative Page Program |
The recruitment period for the Spring 2026 session of the Legislative Page Program is now open until November 15, 2025.
Each year, high-achieving, community-oriented Grade 7 and 8 students from across Ontario are chosen to serve as Legislative Pages. This unique opportunity in Toronto allows selected students to become involved in Ontario’s parliamentary process, meet key figures, and make lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.
More information can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact the Page Program at [email protected] or by phone at (416) 325-7457.
|
Apply for $5,000 to support your community-led project! |
As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), they are providing the opportunity to apply for a grant that supports resident-led projects. These projects can encourage local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic 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. 4
Find out more by clicking here!
| Staying Isn’t Choosing Campaign |
The Staying Isn’t Choosing campaign is now live!
This campaign was developed by Timmins and Area Women in Crisis (TAWC) and Ellevive in Northern Ontario. At the centre of this initiative are five powerful videos that raise awareness, dispel harmful myths, and highlight the systemic barriers that make leaving unsafe relationships so difficult.
This campaign addresses the complexity of abuse — including coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical abuse — and was designed to resonate widely across communities.
- Explore the campaign and videos: stayingisntchoosing.ca
- Follow the campaign on social media: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
| Senior Assistance Home Maintenance Program |
Calling all people with disabilities and seniors who need help with snow clearing, lawn cutting, leaf raking, and other yard tasks! Sunshine Centres for Seniors is here to help with their Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program.
Sunshine Centres is also looking for casual, part-time workers to join their Home Maintenance Program Team. If you are interested, send your resume to Kevin at [email protected].
For more information and to register, contact Kevin at [email protected] or (647) 687-7322
|
WomenACT Petition |
WomanACT has prepared a petition asking Amazon to remove the Term “Wife Beater” from Its Product Descriptions.
The concern is that Amazon is continuing to use the term “wife beater” to describe men’s undershirts on its website, despite a ruling by Canada’s Ad Standards Council that this descriptor violates the advertising Code by displaying indifference to violence against women. Amazon has defended its decision by arguing that the term is “common” and accepted in popular culture. But normalization does not excuse harm.
Sign their petition telling Amazon to remove the term “Wife Beater” from its product descriptions!
| Pumpkin Carving Drop-In |
Allan Gardens is hosting three family events. On Saturday October 25, pumpkin carving happens from 10 AM to 2 PM. On Wednesday October 29 and Thursday October 30, it’s an after-school events from 4 to 7 pm. Mini pumpkins and carving tools are supplied. Parental supervision is required. It’s free but a $5 donation will be appreciated. Find then at Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory at 19 Horticultural Lane! Find more information here.
| Halloween on the Promenade |
Kids are invited to go door-to-door to businesses along the Front Street promenade, between Bayview and Cherry, on Halloween from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. Businesses will have goodies to give away. There’ll be a dog-costume parade with prizes at 5:45 pm and a parade at 6 pm - assemble at the Water Guardian at 474 Front East! There’s lots of information here.
|
Cabbagetown Pumpkin Walk |
| Movies at Stout Irish Pub! |
Weekly free movie nights at Stout Irish Pub at 221 Carlton Street. The lineup features family movies so bring your kids. On this Sunday, October 19, it’s “Hocus Pocus” and on October 26, “Ghost Busters”. There’s free popcorn!
Movies begin each Sunday at 5:30 PM. Please contact Erin to save your spot at (647) 344-7676 or by email at [email protected].
Dear friend,
I was back in the Legislature this week for the first time in five months, and I oh man, was it busy! My staff joke that this week was a long year in politics. The building was full of community groups, professional associations, unions, and, of course, politicians. I am so happy to be back and able to challenge this government to their face, as well as share some of my own ideas that I have been working on over summer.
But before we get into all of that, we have to celebrate our Blue Jays! Tonight they play the first game of the World Series right here at home, and we are all rooting for them! This is an exciting moment for our city and Blue Jays fans everywhere who have been waiting for this since 1993. I know so many of us would love to be there in the stands, cheering on our team and seeing the action first-hand. But sadly, most fans are priced out. Not by the team themselves, but by ticket resellers, dynamic pricing, and bots. This is a consumer protection issue that has been plaguing us for years, but with Taylor Swift and now the Blue Jays, the problem has boiled over.
That is why on Wednesday — before Ford ran his mouth to the media — I tabled a new motion calling on the Ford government to update the Ticket Sales Act by banning the resale of tickets above their face value.
If Ford had acted when I first advocated this change in December of last year, Blue Jays fans would not be getting gouged today. But sadly, Ford chose to ignore my motion.
Nobody should be making money on the backs of fans, nor should regular people go into debt just to cheer on their team or see their favourite artist.
If Ford’s Conservatives don’t allow my motion to pass, then you can point your fingers at Doug for why all but the ultra-wealthy are priced out of the World Series. To learn more about the motion, you can watch my press conference about it here.
If not for Doug Ford and his Conservatives, we would not be in this mess. In 2019, Ford went out of his way to repeal laws limiting ticket resale prices. The law had not yet come into force, but if it had, it could have protected fans and put resellers out of business. But Ford sided with resellers and companies like Ticketmaster over regular folks looking for a fun night out. You may also remember that I tabled a motion, similar to my current one, back in November when Taylor Swift tickets were priced sky-high. Ford failed to seize that opportunity to protect consumers from gouging as well, instead enriching millionaires and shady resellers at the expense (literally) of everyday Ontarians.
This week, while dodging questions about Ontario’s jobs disaster and his Labour Minister’s shady dealings, Ford dangled the carrot of “maybe” protecting Ontarians from predatory ticket resellers. But we don’t need a maybe; we need clear protections now. Send a message to Ford that fans deserve fair pricing now!
But tonight, we will focus on cheering on our Blue Jays and enjoying the game, even if we can’t be in the stadium. The City is setting up a huge screen at Nathan Philips Square so that fans can join together to watch the action! Bars and restaurants will, of course, also be playing the game, so let's support local as we cheer on our team!
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Yesterday, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing tabled Bill 60, a massive omnibus bill. It has 16 schedules, and buried in the middle is a set of changes to the Residential Tenancies Act.
Rumours are swirling that this bill ends “security of tenure,” a provision in the Residential Tenancies Act that ensures that all tenants are able to stay in their rented homes perpetually as long as they follow the terms of the lease. This is why leases become month-to-month after one year, and a landlord cannot ask a tenant to leave after that first year. Residential leases do not expire in Ontario. This bill does not change that. Yet.
Government materials about this bill reference the fact that they will be holding consultations about the ending of security of tenure and the creation of “alternative options on lease agreement expiry.” This would be a disaster for housing stability in Ontario and effectively the end of rent control. Landlords could force tenants to move out for no reason other than that their lease has expired, forcing them to find new housing in a market that grows more expensive every year. Seniors and young families would be totally destabilized and unable to plan for their futures.
This proposed change is meant to cover up Ford’s failures at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). The LTB has been hobbling along for years, barely functioning, but Doug Ford has well and truly broken it since he took office. Applications about breach of contract filed by both landlords and tenants are taking 18 months or more to be processed, when they should take just 30 or 40 days. Landlords have every right to quick adjudication when a tenant fails to pay rent or damages property, just as tenants have the right to a safe and well-maintained home. Fixing the LTB is the real solution to the legitimate concerns of landlords, not the removal of security of tenure. But ending security of tenure is exactly what corporate landlords who want to jack up the rent want. And Ford is catering to them.
I am ready to fight tooth and nail against this policy, and I know many tenants and advocates are as well. We have to stay strong, remember that this legislation doesn’t exist yet, and that we still have time to fight against it. But we need to get organized now. A good first step is to email Doug Ford and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing about your vehement opposition to the removal of security of tenure. You can do so by adding your name here.
We all woke up this morning to the news that Donald Trump no longer wants to negotiate with Canada around tariffs because of Doug Ford’s anti-tariff ads on American television. Ford spent $75 million of Ontario taxpayers’ money on the ads and used audio from President Ronald Regan’s presidential address without authorization (the audio was in the public domain, but it is customary to seek permission from a president’s foundation).
Doug Ford was never Captain Canada, no matter how hard he tried to be. This just proves it. He spent all summer pulling press stunts to distract from his failures, but today he cancelled two press conferences because he is too embarrassed to face journalists. Of course, we know that Donald Trump is not a reasonable person, and he was likely looking for an excuse to call off negotiations, but it is frustrating that this massive use of public money has only served to hurt the people of Ontario. Rest assured, I will be holding Ford accountable for these choices next week in the Legislature.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- Toronto Centre NDP AGM - Meet Federal NDP Leadership Candidates!
- You’re Invited: Childcare Townhall this Wednesday!
- Judge Throws Out Murder Case Over Jail Mistreatment
- Skills Development Fund Scandal Continues
- Mid Autumn Festival Celebration
- Islamic Heritage Month Reception
- Church Wellesley Community Victory over Developers!
- No Police In Schools Rally
- This Week’s Meetings
- What’s Making Headlines
- Local Community Events
| Toronto Centre NDP AGM - Meet Federal NDP Leadership Candidates! |
Want to meet the Federal NDP leadership hopefuls? Join me this Sunday for the Toronto Centre NDP Riding Association AGM to hear from candidates Tanille Johnston, Avi Lewis, Heather McPherson, and Tony McQuail!
At the meeting, we will also elect our new riding association executive, hear updates from me, Federal Candidate Samantha Green, and the outgoing executive, and have a chance to connect with fellow Toronto Centre New Democrats.
All are welcome, though only members in good standing who live in Toronto Centre (or have had their memberships transferred) will be able to vote. If you would like to check your membership status or sign up, volunteers will be available to help!
There is also a virtual option for those who cannot attend in person.
Time: registration opens at 12:30 PM, meeting called to order at 1 PM
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Location: OPSEU Membership Centre, 31 Wellesley St E (across from Wellesley Station) or online
| You’re Invited: Childcare Townhall this Wednesday! |
My Childcare Townhall is happening this upcoming Wednesday, October 29, at 6 PM! If you are as fired up about the need for affordable and accessible child care as I am, I hope that you will join me and my special guests at the Regent Park Community Centre.
Child-minding and dinner will be provided! RSVP here to attend. RSVP is required to secure childminding.
|
Judge Throws Out Murder Case Over Jail Mistreatment |
First-degree murder charges were just stayed in Ontario directly because of Doug Ford’s failure to deliver timely justice and jails that live up to basic human rights standards. The staying of charges will effectively collapse proceedings against the accused, adding to the list of serious criminal trials that have collapsed on Ford’s watch.
The defense used the collective punishment of prisoners at Maplehurst Correctional Complex in late 2023 to argue that the charges against the accused should be stayed. The accused were part of the violent strip search and mistreatment of over 200 prisoners at Maplehurst following the punching of a guard by an inmate. Judge Clayton Conlan’s words are damning: “First-degree murder and attempted murder charges will not be tried on their merits. The victims and their families and close ones will not see the proceeding continue to its normal end. The community as a whole will not get the satisfaction of having a proper trial on the merits.”
With the support of Ontario NDP MPPs, I have repeatedly called for a public inquiry into collective punishment at Maplehurst earlier this year: demands that Solicitor General Michael Kerzner has ignored.
As unthinkable as today’s ruling is, every Ontarian should know that nothing is stopping this from happening again. Ford is still refusing to commit to a basic public inquiry. He's still refusing to invest in speeding up the courts and improving access to justice. Ford is still pretending that the collective punishment of inmates at Maplehurst isn’t a blaring red alarm for how our correctional system is crumbling because of chronic under-investment in the safety of corrections officers and inmates.
What's happening in our justice system is another reflection of Ford’s jobs disaster. He has failed to make correctional facilities safe for workers. He has failed to invest in the court staff needed to guarantee timely trials in Charter-required time frames. He is letting everyone in Ontario down and cannot admit when he is wrong.
| Skills Development Fund Scandal Continues |
We all know that Doug Ford and his Conservatives have been a jobs disaster for Ontario. Unemployment is at 7.9%, and the government could take meaningful actions to support workers: hiring desperately needed healthcare workers, supporting public colleges to save jobs for support workers, supporting workers in tariff-exposed industries, and committing to a Buy Ontario First procurement strategy. Instead, they are focused on protecting their friends and lobbyists who received millions from the Skills Development Fund despite submitting low-scoring applications.
This week, the Ontario NDP hit the Conservatives hard in Question Period, asking them why the Minister of Labour went to Paris for a lobbyist’s wedding and then gave that very same lobbyist’s clients millions from the Skills Development Fund. Minister Piccini refused to answer. We asked why high scoring applications, assessed by impartial public servants, were ignored while low-scoring applications with ties to the government were sent to the front of the funding line. The question was ignored.
Minister of Labour? More like Minister of Favours. He isn’t looking out for working people or the little guy. He is in it for his friends, using the public purse like his own personal slush fund. Minister Piccini must resign over this flagrant misuse of taxpayer dollars and the missed opportunities to support credible job creators. You have my word that the Ontario NDP will continue to push on this issue.
|
Mid Autumn Festival Celebration |
Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! Today I had the joy of celebrating the festival season with hundreds of Chinese and Asian seniors from across our riding, featuring lots of hearty food, fun, and, of course, an abundance of mooncakes and lanterns! Thank you to Neighbourhood Information Post and TCHC for helping us organize this event! Holidays are always sweeter with community. I am wishing everyone a safe, happy, and prosperous Mid-Autumn Festival season! 中秋節快樂
| Islamic Heritage Month Reception |
October is Islamic Heritage Month, so of course we had to celebrate! The Ontario NDP hosted hundreds of community members at the Legislature for dinner, beautiful music, and lively conversation. I am so grateful to everyone who attended for sharing their faith and culture with us.
Every October, we recognize the significant political, economic, social and cultural contributions the Muslim community has made here in Ontario. It is also an important opportunity to centre Muslims and work together to tackle rampant anti-Muslim hate and work towards a safe and equitable Ontario for all. I look forward to working on these priorities this month and all year long.
| Church Wellesley Community Victory Over Developers! |
On Tuesday, I was proud to join the Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association to celebrate a rare and hard-fought victory at the Ontario Land Tribunal. KingSett Capital's proposal would have taken over 505, 507 and 509 Church St. and 68, 72 and 76 Wellesley St East. This included the William McBean Terrace building, the iconic 1878 heritage-designated structure in the heart of the Village. Thank you to CWNA and City Planning for standing up for responsible development, tenant protection and respectful heritage integration in Canada’s oldest established 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
| Policing Free Schools Petition |
Students are safest in well-funded schools surrounded by caring teachers and education workers. We do not need expensive police in schools to criminalize our Black, Indigenous, and racialized students. We need real investments in public education.
I am very thankful to Policing-Free Schools for their tireless advocacy to keep all students safe in schools and provide the resources that students and education workers really need. This week, I was proud to table their petition and attend their rally to keep police out of schools and fund real supports for our public education system.
| This Week's Meetings |
- Ontario Medical Association
- Canadian Bankers Association
- Ontario Legislative Intern Program
- Ontario Architecture Association
- Canadian Cancer Society
| What's Making Headlines |
What a 50-year-old neighbourhood development can teach us about solving Canada’s housing crisis
PhD student pores over evictions data, finds better tenant protections needed
Casey House shutters harm reduction vending machines
'Once in a lifetime': Blue Jays fans prepare for first Toronto World Series game in decades
Woman charged after being found with homicide suspect linked to Niagara Falls Amber Alert
Air Canada makes ‘difficult decision’ to cut hundreds of management jobs
| Upcoming Community Events |
| Regent Park October Funfest |
The Friends of Regent Park are busy preparing for October Funfest! Join this festival on October 25 from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Bake Oven in Regent Park’s “The Big Park.”
The afternoon will be spent carving pumpkins, listening to music, dancing, and many other activities!
| Boo Barn at Riverdale Park! |
Riverdale Farm is hosting a Halloween Boo Barn! This will take place on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26, from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM at 201 Winchester Street.
There will be so many fun activities like face painting and crafts, and pumpkin carving! For more information, please call 416-392-6794 or email [email protected].
| Halloween on Church |
Halloween on Church in The Village is back on October 31st from 6:30 PM to midnight! Prepare for a night of wicked fun, eerie surprises and unforgettable festivities.
Because of the massive success of Halloween on Church, the Church and Wellesley BIA has expanded to Saturday, November 1st, from 7 PM to midnight as well. Make sure you bring your spirit and your monster mash moves to Canada's biggest Halloween bash. Find out more here.
| Samhain in Corktown: Pumpkin Parade |
On November 1, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at the Sackville Playground, the Corktown Neighbourhood Association is hosting another Pumpkin Parade!
This free event is for everyone! So come out, don your scary costumes and masks and let’s all celebrate Samhain!
| Environmental Impacts of New AI Data Centres in Ontario |
The Environmental Registry of Ontario is inviting public feedback on the proposal “New Requirements for Data Centres Seeking to Connect to the Electricity Grid in Ontario” — open until November 4, 2025.
This consultation seeks input on the types of data centres that would be subject to new requirements, including those with large electrical connections (over 50 megawatts) and facilities located in areas where the electricity grid may be constrained or have surplus capacity.
Learn more and provide feedback through the Environmental Registry of Ontario: ERO Notice 025-1001. You can also learn more from The Narwhal’s in-depth article here on data centres and whether or not they are a potential threat to the Great Lakes.
| Newcomer Women’s Program |
Pathway to Possibilities is hosting a Newcomer Women Program. This is designed to support newcomer women in setting meaningful goals and strengthening their employability skills, while also providing the opportunity to earn micro-certificates.
This program runs from October 20 to December 12, 2025. Apply by filling out the form here.
| Ontario Legislative Page Program |
The recruitment period for the Spring 2026 session of the Legislative Page Program is now open until November 15, 2025.
Each year, high-achieving, community-oriented Grade 7 and 8 students from across Ontario are chosen to serve as Legislative Pages. This unique opportunity in Toronto allows selected students to become involved in Ontario’s parliamentary process, meet key figures, and make lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.
More information can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact the Page Program at [email protected] or by phone at (416) 325-7457.
|
Apply for $5,000 to support your community-led project! |
As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), they are providing the opportunity to apply for a grant that supports resident-led projects. These projects can encourage local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic 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. 4
Find out more by clicking here!
| Staying Isn’t Choosing Campaign |
The Staying Isn’t Choosing campaign is now live!
This campaign was developed by Timmins and Area Women in Crisis (TAWC) and Ellevive in Northern Ontario. At the centre of this initiative are five powerful videos that raise awareness, dispel harmful myths, and highlight the systemic barriers that make leaving unsafe relationships so difficult.
This campaign addresses the complexity of abuse — including coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical abuse — and was designed to resonate widely across communities.
- Explore the campaign and videos: stayingisntchoosing.ca
- Follow the campaign on social media: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
| Senior Assistance Home Maintenance Program |
Calling all people with disabilities and seniors who need help with snow clearing, lawn cutting, leaf raking, and other yard tasks! Sunshine Centres for Seniors is here to help with their Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program.
Sunshine Centres is also looking for casual, part-time workers to join their Home Maintenance Program Team. If you are interested, send your resume to Kevin at [email protected].
For more information and to register, contact Kevin at [email protected] or (647) 687-7322
|
WomenACT Petition |
WomanACT has prepared a petition asking Amazon to remove the Term “Wife Beater” from Its Product Descriptions.
The concern is that Amazon is continuing to use the term “wife beater” to describe men’s undershirts on its website, despite a ruling by Canada’s Ad Standards Council that this descriptor violates the advertising Code by displaying indifference to violence against women. Amazon has defended its decision by arguing that the term is “common” and accepted in popular culture. But normalization does not excuse harm.
Sign their petition telling Amazon to remove the term “Wife Beater” from its product descriptions!
| Pumpkin Carving Drop-In |
Allan Gardens is hosting three family events. On Saturday October 25, pumpkin carving happens from 10 AM to 2 PM. On Wednesday October 29 and Thursday October 30, it’s an after-school events from 4 to 7 pm. Mini pumpkins and carving tools are supplied. Parental supervision is required. It’s free but a $5 donation will be appreciated. Find then at Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory at 19 Horticultural Lane! Find more information here.
| Halloween on the Promenade |
Kids are invited to go door-to-door to businesses along the Front Street promenade, between Bayview and Cherry, on Halloween from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. Businesses will have goodies to give away. There’ll be a dog-costume parade with prizes at 5:45 pm and a parade at 6 pm - assemble at the Water Guardian at 474 Front East! There’s lots of information here.
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Cabbagetown Pumpkin Walk |
| Movies at Stout Irish Pub! |
Weekly free movie nights at Stout Irish Pub at 221 Carlton Street. The lineup features family movies so bring your kids. On this Sunday, October 19, it’s “Hocus Pocus” and on October 26, “Ghost Busters”. There’s free popcorn!
Movies begin each Sunday at 5:30 PM. Please contact Erin to save your spot at (647) 344-7676 or by email at [email protected].