Dear Emma,
Yesterday, the Ontario Legislature rose for its summer break, which will last until October 20, over four months. This government has a shameful pattern of rushing the passing of all of their bills on a compressed timeline and then taking long breaks to avoid scrutiny from the public. It is undemocratic and shameful.
On Wednesday, the government rammed through Bill 5, passing it despite Indigenous rights holders and their allies packing the chamber, raising their voices, calling for the government to scrap the bill. All week, Indigenous communities rallied outside of Queen’s Park, many of them having travelled eight hours or more to be there. They were there sharing their opposition to the bill, drumming so loudly that we could hear them in the chamber. It was powerful, but it did not move the Ford government, who passed Bill 5 despite massive opposition and concerns about the bill’s harmful impact to Indigenous sovereignty, the environment, labour laws and override of municipal and provincial laws at the discretion of this government.
Right after Bill 5 passed, I recorded a video explaining what was going on, which you can watch and share here.
This government should never have passed Bill 5. Instead, they should have listened to Indigenous people who are asking for real consultation and a true partnership when legislation concerns their treaty territories. None of that happened, and Bill 5 became law when it received Royal Assent yesterday.
But this is not the end. Indigenous leaders have told me that Bill 5's passing just means that their fight changes shape, and it will move from the lawn of Queen’s Park to other parts of their land. The Idle No More movement of 2012 is just one example of how they will shut things down and make their voices heard when all other means have failed. The ONDP will stand with them to resist Ford’s undemocratic seizure of power every step of the way.
First Nations chiefs and the Ontario NDP are now calling for the government to rescind Bill 5 and for the Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, Greg Rickford, to resign after his blatant failure to honour First Nations rights in the lead-up to Bill 5. He has disgraced the ministry and set back Indigenous relations in Ontario for years to come.
This week, we celebrated the start of the Pride season, which is always full of joy, tempered by reflection on the attacks that our Queer and Trans siblings are experiencing globally.
I attended the progress Pride flag raisings at City Hall and Queen’s Park and spoke in the Legislature about the importance of Pride Month. Making this statement in the Legislative Chamber each year is a highlight for me, as I get to bring Queer and Trans joy, as well as our struggles directly to the government. This year has brought many struggles, with attacks on Trans people and inclusion coming thick and fast. Pride Toronto has lost many core corporate sponsors who are bending to Trump’s anti-DEI ideology like cowards, Alberta is pushing a disgusting anti-Trans agenda, and American lawmakers are currently considering over 900 anti-Trans bills across their country. This Pride season, we must unite in deep solidarity, caring for each other and standing up for our collective human rights. I know I can count on all of you.
You can watch my full speech here:
I will be participating in all of the Toronto Pride marches with the Ontario NDP and would love for you to march with me! You can sign up to march in the Trans March, Dyke March, and Pride Parade with the Ontario NDP here.
The Ontario NDP is also tabling at the Pride community fair all weekend long. Join us by signing up to volunteer here!
Finally, Eid Mubarak to the Muslim community and all who are celebrating Eid Al-Adha today. May this blessed time bring you and your family peace, good health, and happiness.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- Government Refuses to Declare IPV an Epidemic
- Justice for Soli (Stop Criminalizing Mental Health Act)
- Declare September Ethiopian Heritage Month
- Homes Ontario: The ONDP’s Plan to Get Building
- Ford’s Plan to Take Over Our School Boards
- Protect Ontario Consumers - Stop the Illegal Sale of Palestinian Land
- Tragic Death from Measles in Ontario
- This Week's Meetings
- This Week’s Headlines
- Local Community Events
| Government Refuses to Declare IPV an Epidemic |
Yesterday, on the last day before the Legislature rose for the summer break, I moved a Unanimous Consent motion that would have declared intimate partner violence (IPV) an epidemic in Ontario. Passing this motion would have declared IPV an epidemic without further delay or debate. You may remember that I have moved this motion three times in the past year, but the government said no each time. Yesterday was no different. Global News has the story here.
The Ford government’s defeat of this motion is a failure to recognize the urgency of the epidemic, which disproportionately affects Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people who face multiple, compounding barriers when seeking help.
This government has heard loud and clear from survivors and their families, law enforcement and 100 municipalities that they must immediately declare intimate partner violence an epidemic. This latest refusal again ignores those calls and puts survivors at risk. The house has risen for the summer, and the Ford government has chosen to deny survivors the immediate resources they need to escape or recover from violence.
The government did, however, move to revive the Standing Committee on Justice Policy’s Study on Intimate Partner Violence, a study they killed when they called an early election in January of this year.
When the Ford government created this study, they promised that it would be resourced to travel to Northern, Indigenous, and rural communities, to hear directly from Indigenous women about the disproportionate violence that they experience. But last year, they broke that promise. Funding was never delivered, and consultations instead occurred online over video calls.
The Ford government knows that Northern and Indigenous communities struggle to access high-speed internet. Yet, they did nothing to ensure that survivors had a secure, private place to share their stories. Because of these callous choices, so many survivors' stories went unheard.
Yesterday afternoon, I re-tabled the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, and I will be meeting with organizations over the summer to discuss next steps and strategies.
| Justice for Soli (Stop Criminalizing Mental Health Act) |
On Wednesday, I reintroduced a bill that I worked on with the family of Soleiman (Soli) Faqiri, a man who was killed while in custody at an Ontario jail during an acute mental health crisis. He was a beloved brother, son and community member. He also had schizoaffective disorder.
Mr. Faqiri needed care, care that his family and other guards advocated strongly for, but that he never received. His family tried to visit him four times over the eleven days that he was incarcerated before his death. They knew that he was scared and needed support. But they were forbidden from seeing him.
A coroner's inquest into Mr. Faqiri’s death ruled that it was a homicide. It also yielded 57 recommendations for systemic change directed at the Provincial government. The first recommendation was that the government, within 60 days, “develop and issue a public position statement within 60 days of the verdict, recognizing that correctional facilities are not an appropriate environment for persons in custody experiencing significant mental health issues.”
It has now been more than 18 months, and the Ford Conservatives have said nothing. The Premier owes Maryam Faqiri and her family an apology for the killing of their beloved son and relative while in government custody.
I will continue to fight for the justice that Soleiman Faqiri and his family deserve. A person experiencing a mental health crisis needs access to health care, not incarceration.
| Declare September Ethiopian Heritage Month |
I was thrilled to join my good friend and ONDP Deputy Leader, MPP Doly Begum, in introducing a bill to mark September as Ethiopian Heritage Month in Ontario. You can watch our press conferences and hear from Ethiopian community leaders here.
The Ethiopian community has contributed so much to Ontario and Toronto. I want to thank them for their contributions to the many organizations based in Toronto Centre, such as the African Centre for Refugees, Wanasah, Regent Park Mothers of Peace, and so many others, which would not be as vibrant and effective without the leadership and hard work of Ethiopian Canadians.
Declaring September as Ethiopian Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate Ethiopian customs, traditions, and proud history, showcase their heritage to fellow Ontarians, and preserve it for future generations.
September holds special meaning for Ethiopian Canadians, featuring important celebrations such as Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year), Irreechaa (Thanksgiving), and Maskel (Finding of the True Cross). The Bill seeks to formally recognize these traditions and promote greater awareness and appreciation across Ontario.
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Homes Ontario: The ONDP’s Plan to Get Building |
The Ontario NDP has introduced a motion calling on the Ontario government to establish Homes Ontario, a new dedicated public agency with a mandate to tariff-proof Ontario’s housing market and deliver homes that are publicly built, permanently affordable homes, and made in Ontario.
Housing is essential infrastructure. Ontario cannot grow, thrive, or compete if people can’t afford to live here. Homes Ontario is about getting the government back in the business of building housing—at scale, for the public good, and for the long haul.
The motion urges the government to give Homes Ontario the tools it needs to:
- Finance and deliver hundreds of thousands of permanently affordable homes
- Leverage public land to fast-track development and ensure it serves the public interest
- Partner with non-profit, co-op, and supportive housing providers
- Create good union jobs and strengthen Ontario’s skilled trades and building capacity
I am proud to support this motion. It is critical that Ontario reinvests in building supportive, co-op, rent-geared-to-income, and affordable homes to combat the housing crisis and lift up our communities.
| Ford’s Plan to Take Over Our School Boards |
Late last week, Education Minister Paul Calandra tabled a shocking new education bill, Bill 33.
The bill gives the Minister unfettered power to take over school boards, silence trustees, and ignore students and parents. It establishes that school boards must follow the Minister’s every whim or risk having the ministry take over management of the board.
The bill doesn’t once mention fixing our crumbling schools, putting more caring adults in classrooms, or making sure our kids have what they need to succeed. Instead, this government is focused on locking parents out, silencing them from speaking up about their kids’ education.
This bill does nothing to improve learning conditions, reduce class sizes, or support kids with special needs. It does nothing to fill the $6.35 billion funding gap created by this government. As a public school parent myself, I am proud to stand with the Ontario NDP in supporting students, families, and educators in fighting this legislation and protecting the integrity of our public education system from political control.
Protect Ontario Consumers - Stop the Illegal Sale of Palestinian Land
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Did you know that illegally occupied Palestinian land is regularly sold at closed-door real estate events in Ontario? These events have no transparency, scant records, and hide information about the sellers and land title. Selling this land is illegal under international law. These sales violate the Fourth Geneva Convention and the Rome Statute. They also undermine work to establish a just and secure peace with freedom for all. If Ontario land were sold under the same conditions, it would be title fraud. Ford government knows this is happening and is doing nothing. This must end. I was proud to share this petition in the Legislature and await the Minister's response
Relatedly, I want to highlight the work of the Madleen Flotilla. This flotilla is a peaceful attempt to break the Israeli government’s genocidal siege of Gaza. It aims to peacefully facilitate the flow of essential supplies into the Gaza Strip and draw international attention to Israel’s total blockage of food, water, and medicine from entering the Gaza Strip. You can learn more about their effort here.
Tragic Death from Measles in Ontario |
Measles is a serious viral infection that can cause lasting harm and cost lives. We received sad news yesterday when Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer made public that a baby has died following a measles infection. The Chief Medical Officer shared that "the child contracted the virus before birth from the mother, who had not been immunized against measles, mumps and rubella. Measles was a significant contributing factor in the premature death of this child, but the child also had other serious medical complications unrelated to the virus."
My heart goes out to the grieving family. No family should face what they are going through.
Ontario has over 2000 measles cases — more than the entire United States. We need to increase vaccine uptake to keep everyone safe. Many young people missed required vaccine appointments during COVID-19 remote learning. If a young person in your life still needs their MMR shot, they have two options. First, they can get this shot at a family doctor's office. Second, if they don't have a family doctor — they can use Toronto Public Health's booking system here.
I have also launched a petition about this, so you can take action. Sign if you agree that we need more funding to increase vaccine uptake and fix loopholes in our system.
This Week's Meetings |
- Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada
- Consortium of Restorative Justice Advocates
- Centre for Independent Living Toronto
| This Week's Headlines |
Ford government is still underfunding education despite budget increase, school boards say
Parts of GTA under special air quality statement Friday amid wildfire smoke
Four of Doug Ford’s HART Hubs are open in Toronto. What are they?
Full closure of King-Church intersection beginning a month ahead of schedule on June 2
City staff recommend allowing sixplexes across all Toronto neighbourhoods
Toronto’s new Indigenous Health Centre hailed as ‘a place of healing, hope and reconciliation’
Opposition parties slam Ford government for legislature’s long summer break
Doug Ford pushes through rapid development law despite objections of First Nations
| Upcoming Community Events |
TRANScendTO |
TRANScendTO: Registration is Open!
In partnership with LGBT Youthline and the Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance, the City of Toronto is hosting a one-day gathering and service provider fair for Two-Spirit, Trans and non-binary (2STNB) youth. Admission is free and food is provided.
This transformative day of learning, community-building, and celebration for trans and gender-diverse youth will include:
- Workshops and peer-led spaces
- A service provider fair
- A Kiki Ball to close out the day
Date: Friday, June 6
Time: 12 to 8:30 PM
Location: TMU Student Centre, 55 Gould St
Registration and more information
Toronto’s Waste Strategy Update - Phase 2 |
The City is updating its 2016 Long-term Waste Management Strategy to guide waste reduction, reuse, and diversion over the next 30-50 years, with an implementation plan for 2026–2036.
The process is currently in Phase 2, evaluating options based on public feedback, best practices, and City staff input.
This includes exploring residual waste disposal options like energy-from-waste (incineration) and understanding related environmental, economic, and social values.
Phase 3 will develop a ten-year implementation plan, culminating in a final strategy presented to City Council and the public.
Get involved:
- Take the online survey by June 29
- Join the public event on June 10, 6–8 p.m. at City Hall (100 Queen St. W), live streamed
- Learn more and participate at toronto.ca/wastestrategy.
Join the St James Town Festival Planning Subcommittees!
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The St James Town Service Providers Network is looking for community input in planning the 2025 SJT Festival, taking place in August.
This is an opportunity to share your voice and leadership in this amazing yearly celebration!
Sign up for a festival planning subcommittee that meets your interests, where you can share your skills or learn new ones! To join a SJT Festival Planning Subcommittee, fill out this online form, and you will receive an email with next steps. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to contact the SJT Festival Planning Team, [email protected].
Sign up here.
Roaming Performers Program - Call for Local Performers |
Call for Local Talent: Cabbagetown Roaming Performers Program Returns
Cabbagetown BIA is bringing back the Roaming Performers Program to animate the neighbourhood with live music, movement, and creativity all summer long.
- Program Dates: June 6 – September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline (First Round): Friday, May 31, 2025
- Final Rolling Deadline: Saturday, June 15, 2025
Who They’re Looking For:
Musicians, magicians, dancers, balloon artists, jugglers, street performers, and other entertainers ready to perform short sets throughout the community.
Program Details:
- Performances run 2–3 hours
- Honorarium of $200–$300 per session
- Artists must bring their own equipment
- Performances must be mobile and suitable for street settings
- Open to solo acts and small groups (up to 3 members)
Selected performers will activate Cabbagetown’s public spaces with joyful, engaging shows for visitors, patio diners, and residents alike.
Apply now: Application for Roaming Performers — Cabbagetown BIA
Fred Victor: THRIVE - Employment Program for Trans & Non-Binary People
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Fred Victor’s Employment and Training Services is launching THRIVE! A low-barrier, drop-in employment support program specifically for trans and non-binary people.
When & Where:
- Fridays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Fred Victor ETS Office
- 145 Front St. E., Lower Level Unit #2
What’s Offered:
- Resume & cover letter support
- Skills-building workshops
- Referrals to employment specialists & job retention workers
- Computer + internet access
- Quiet space to work on employment goals
Contact the Fred Victor team here: [email protected]
Regent Park Summer Safety Jam 2025
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Date: Saturday, June 14 (Rain dates: June 15 and June 21)
Time: Noon to 6 p.m.
Location: The Big Park, 600 Dundas St. East
Hosted by: Toronto Community Housing, Daniels, Tridel, and local partners
Enjoy a fun day celebrating community safety and togetherness, featuring:
- A free halal BBQ
- A local bazaar
- Live music
| 51 Division Open House |
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Time: 11 AM - 2 PM
Location: 51 Parliament Street
Join 51 Division for a family-friendly event including:
- Police Exhibits
- TPS vintage cars
- Station tours
- Entertainment
- Food, refreshments and more!
Contact [email protected] with questions.
| It Takes a Village Walking Tour |
Date: Sunday, June 15, 2025
Time: 3 PM
Start Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church Street
Cost: $8/person
Participants will hear stories of Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ community — from the activism sparked by the Bathhouse Raids and the AIDS crisis to the spaces of belonging found at City Park Apartments, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, and St. Charles Tavern. The tour also explores ongoing efforts to strengthen the Church-Wellesley Village.
Click here to register and learn more.
| Toronto Neighbourhood Group - Tai Chi with Chinese Seniors Group |
TNG Community Services invites residents to the TNG Challenge, an event supporting seniors to live independently, safely, and with dignity.
- Event: Tai Chi with the Chinese Seniors Group
- Date: Saturday, June 21
- Time: Not specified
- Location: 349 Ontario Street
This engaging outdoor event promotes wellness and community spirit. Participants can also get involved by donating, starting a fundraising page, or becoming a matching donor.
Learn more at Get moving in support of seniors!
Market Street Pride
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Market Street Pride promises a day of music, delicious food, engaging workshops, and live demonstrations. Local queer vendors will be featured, along with a carabiner decorating session with Beyond the Bow.
Performances will light up the Great Lakes Brewery Stage, including a show by the iconic Tynomi Banks. Freedom School Toronto and the Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance will offer youth workshops and demos.
Date: June 22, 2025
Time: 10 AM - 5 PM
Location: St. Lawrence Market
Legacy Labyrinths Designation Ceremony |
Toronto’s public labyrinth at Trinity Square Park is becoming the 10th Legacy Labyrinth in the world. To celebrate this distinction, two great community events are coming up!
🌿 Legacy Labyrinth Designation Ceremony
Saturday, June 21 at 12:00 PM
📍 Trinity Square Park
The ceremony will be followed by a Summer Solstice Walk, inviting reflection in support of global and local community care.
🍽 Legacy Project Workshop – Lunch & Learn
Sunday, June 22 from 12:30 to 2:00 PM
📍 Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen St. E.
This interactive session will explore how walking a labyrinth can raise awareness for social issues, including the needs of Toronto’s unhoused residents.
Find Your Voice Through Empowerment - Storytelling Workshop |
Date: June 26 and July 03
Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
Location: 180 Sackville Street (main floor meeting room)
*Attend at least 2 sessions to qualify for raffle draw.
**Free child minding, call for more info.
Click here to register
Find Your Voice Through Empowerment Of Storytelling Workshop uses the art of storytelling as a therapeutic approach to mental health, it will allow community members to discover their lifepath, or something that brings confidence, and to be able to link it to their identity. For more info on the details of each session, please find the syllabus here.
The Find Your Voice workshop will consist of 2 sessions (2hrs per session). The workshop will be facilitated by Sarah Abusarar (RSW, ExAT). Sarah is a professional Storyteller, registered social worker, and expressive arts therapist with a focus in the areas of survivors of violence and gender based violence at home.
Canadian Immigrant Fair |
Canadian Immigrant is bringing its signature Canadian Immigrant Fair back to Toronto on Friday, June 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre North (255 Front Street West).
This free, one-stop event is designed to support newcomers with the tools and connections they need to succeed in Canada, focusing on:
- Careers
- Education
- Settlement
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with employers, recruiters, educational institutions, government agencies, and community service organizations.
Highlights include:
- One-on-one résumé critiques
- An engaging lineup of guest speakers
- Access to valuable resources for job searching, upgrading education, and settling in a new community
Admission is free and open to all.
Date:
