March 29, 2024 Newsletter

Dear Emma,

Winter hit us with a walloping snowstorm this week! I hope that you have all been staying safe and limiting unnecessary travel, as the roads and highways are treacherous. I know my 6-year-old has been loving the snow days (no school!) and keeps asking me to take him sledding. Naturally, it’s followed by a mug of hot cocoa afterwards, which makes this his favourite winter activity!

For anyone struggling to stay warm during this time, the City has many warming centres open, including those in Toronto Centre. If you see someone in need, please help share the locations with them. You can find the complete list here.

This year marks my 10th wedding anniversary to my extraordinary wife, Farrah Khan. Coincidentally, 2026 is also the 25th anniversary of the world’s first same-sex marriages that were later legally recognized in Canada. These marriages, which were officiated in Toronto by the Metropolitan Community Church’s Senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Brent Hawkes, on January 14, 2001, were not legal at the time. However, they served as a basis for a groundbreaking legal challenge that led to equal marriage becoming law in Canada in 2005. I am proud to have played a modest part in this long fight during my time volunteering with Asian Canadians for Equal Marriage. We supported the hard work of many pioneering couples, community advocates, lawyers, philanthropists and organizations who, for years, have sacrificed so much to ensure marriage equality was the law for all Canadians.

Tomorrow, Farrah and I will renew our wedding vows in a beautiful and important ceremony at MCC Toronto, alongside other couples, in recognition of this historic anniversary. This event will be a celebration of love, a triumph over oppression, and the honouring of decades of 2SLGBTQ+ activism that secured equal marriage in our country. 

We are so lucky to have MCC here in Toronto, a queer-led church that has been at the forefront of the equal marriage fight and many other campaigns for queer and trans rights. They work alongside other queer clergy leaders, including former NDP MPP, Rev. Dr. Cheri DiNovo, who officiated one of the first same-sex marriages registered in Ontario in 2001. The Ontario registrar's office issued the marriage certificate, failing to recognize that the names on the document belong to a lesbian couple. I say good on them and thank you for their advocacy!

It is an honour to celebrate this day with MCC Toronto. To learn more about this historic day or even to attend the event, click here to visit MCC’s website. Seating is limited.

I am so excited to share photos from this historic event with you next week!

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Carney and Ford Sell Out Ontario Auto Workers
• Coffee with Kristyn - Yonge and Wellesley
• Meeting with Ontario Registered Nurses
• Ontario Must Act To Ban Cat Declawing, Dog Debarking
• Federal NDP Leadership Debate in Toronto Centre
• What’s Making Headlines
• Local Community Events

Just today, we learned that Prime Minister Mark Carney has sold out Ontario’s auto workers and their entire sector to China. And where is Doug Ford on this? Nowhere. 

Carney slashed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, allowing 49,000 vehicles to be imported and sold within Canada each year with a tariff of just 6.1%. 

In the aftermath, we are seeing the Doug Ford playbook in action: do nothing, then complain to grab headlines. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe flew to China with the Prime Minister to advocate for his province’s canola farmers, resulting in a great deal. Meanwhile, Ford was sitting at home, leaving Ontario workers with no one to fight for them. If you’re not at the table, you’re not fit for Premier. 

Let's be clear: Mark Carney is selling out our auto sector. China gets 49,000 guaranteed vehicle sales. Ontario workers get “expected” investment in “three years”. Our workers deserve guarantees — you don’t protect an industry with vague maybes. 

“This is a self-inflicted wound to an already injured Canadian auto industry,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “Providing a foothold to cheap Chinese EVs, backed by massive state subsidies, overproduction and designed to expand market share through exports, puts Canadian auto jobs at risk while rewarding labour violations and unfair trade practices.”

Sadly but not surprisingly, today we saw that neither Ford nor Carney cared enough to protect Ontario workers. The Premier has no jobs plan, and he clearly doesn’t have the Prime Minister's ear. While both Conservatives and Liberals leave Canadian workers out in the cold, New Democrats will keep fighting for good, Ontario jobs. I am so proud to be part of that fight. 

Yesterday, due to the snowstorm, Coffee with Kristyn, originally scheduled at the Good Earth Coffee House at Yonge and Wellesley, was pivoted to Zoom and phone calls. These conversations always light a fire under me, especially when constituents share their personal stories about how the government has helped them, failed them, or how things could be made better for them and their neighbours. I am buzzing with some new ideas and can’t wait to turn them into action. In the weeks and months ahead, you can watch this space as we turn constituent ideas into town halls, youth job fairs, and new campaigns to improve tenant rights and support small businesses.

On February 11 from 10 AM to 2 PM, I am hosting my next "Coffee with Kristyn" event at Roozamoon Cafe, at 398 Queen Street East in Corktown. 

I am excited to host this event before the holy month of Ramadan begins in late February, so that all community members can join me in sharing a cup of coffee and a delicious snack. To sign up to attend, please click here. 

I was so pleased to meet with members of the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario, alongside Marit Stiles, during the RNAO’s Queen’s Park On The Road advocacy day on Wednesday! 

RNAO members are doing incredible work every day in Ontario, and they see the huge gaps in our healthcare systems and social safety nets firsthand. It was so inspiring to talk to these great nurses about how healthcare austerity, the housing crisis, and climate change affect their patients every day, as well as the solutions they are proposing to keep us all happy and healthy. 

In a province with over 190,000 nurses working to provide excellent care, nurses deserve a government that will support and stand alongside them, not slash their wage increases or decrease funding and investments for the services they provide. I am so excited to keep working with the RNAO on so many of our shared priorities. 

The Ontario government is consulting on banning medically unnecessary procedures on animals, including declawing cats, ear clipping and debarking in dogs. You can share your feedback with the government using this link until February 5. 

These regulations are long overdue, and animals have been needlessly suffering because of it. I spoke to CBC News about the issue this week, reminding them that the NDP proposed a ban on declawing cats in a private members’ bill six years ago, but it was never passed into law. The government has had so many years to act,  but they have failed to do substantive work around animal cruelty. I hope you raise your voice on this important issue. 

The NDP Federal Leadership race is heating up! This past Saturday, we welcomed all five leadership candidates to Toronto Centre for a lively and informative debate at TMU. I am so proud of New Democratic Youth and the ONDP Toronto Area Council for their leadership on this event. 

The debate was at capacity, with over 500 people in attendance, and there were so many thoughtful audience questions. If you missed it, you can watch the full recording of the debate here. 

To vote in the leadership race, sign up to be a member of the NDP here by January 28, 2026.

Thousands of traffic charges dropped in Ontario annually

Nearly 85,000 people homeless in Ontario, up 8% in one year: report

Eastern Ontario parrot rescue launches pilot project to address growing crisis

Toronto police officer charged in theft of government IDs, bank cards

Ford government pausing its own affordable housing policy, calling it ‘red tape’

Toronto factors a new deal into budget, but Ford government says talks aren’t scheduled

Met Radio is now accepting applicants for our winter audio documentary incubator program! Over the course of twelve weeks, learn the art of interviewing, recording, hosting and editing from industry professionals, and share your very own 10 - 15 minute audio documentary on the Met Radio airwaves. No experience required!

Program overview:

Dates:  Feb 3rd - April 28th (no session April 7th)

Time:   6:30 - 8:30pm in person, Tuesday nights 

Cost: Free to participate, and all participants receive a $500 honorarium upon completion of the program. 

Apply here before Sunday, January 18th at midnight.

Regent Park Social Development Plan (SDP) leaders are pleased to invite community members, youth, artists, organizations, and local leaders to participate in the upcoming Kiwanis Black History Month Community Event, on Saturday February 21, 2026 at the ADA SLAIGHT HALL. (Full Day Event)

This event will be a vibrant celebration of Youth, culture, leadership, and community resilience. It will centre community voices, highlight youth creativity, and create space for learning, connection, and collective pride.

They are currently welcoming expressions of interest in the following areas:

Ways to Participate

• Youth performers and artists (music, spoken word, dance, visual arts)
• Community organizations and service providers interested in hosting resource tables
• Youth entrepreneurs and vendors
• Speakers, facilitators, and cultural contributors
• Volunteers to support event coordination and day-of activities

Why Participate

• Showcase your work, talent, or services to a broad community audience
• Connect with residents, youth, families, and partner organizations
• Contribute to a meaningful Black History Month celebration rooted in community leadership and empowerment
• Support youth engagement, cultural expression, and community connection

The Kiwanis Black History Month Event is being organized in collaboration with community partners and is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to all.

Next Steps

If you or your organization are interested in participating, please contact the SDP coordinators  at your earliest time with a brief description of your interest and how you would like to be involved. Additional event details, logistics, and confirmations will be shared with confirmed participants. To express interest, please email [email protected]. 

PTP is thrilled to announce that a new cohort of Get Started in Canada will begin in the new year! This program supports newcomer women in setting meaningful goals, strengthening employability skills, and earning micro‑certificates to boost their career journey. 

Program overview:

Dates:  Jan 26 - Mar 20, 2026

Time:   9:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Days:   Mondays  to  Thursdays (hybrid and virtual options)

What participants will get:

• Micro-certificates such as WHMIS, Business Writing, Customer Service, and more
• Goal-setting support and enhanced job search skills
• Increased confidence and workplace communication skills

How to apply:

Fill out the inquiry form here:  Get Started in Canada - PTP

Birthmark is hosting an Ontario Arts Council–supported initiative: Here, Hold My Grief, an arts-based workshop series designed for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced grief during family building.

Workshops will take place in Toronto between January–April 2026 and offer a supportive, creative space for reflection, healing, and community connection.

For more information: [email protected] 

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.

Do you know a phenomenal leader in your community who deserves recognition?

Kristyn Wong-Tam will be awarding six people with a prestigious Toronto Centre Leadership Award in June 2026.

This honour recognizes individuals who have made a profound and lasting contribution to the Toronto Centre community in any field. This can include the arts, politics, community building, healthcare, and beyond!

Submit your nominee here!

Dear Emma,

Happy New Year! And Merry Christmas to all who are celebrating Orthodox Christmas this week. My extended Ukrainian family takes great joy and pride at this time of year, and I wish all observing a peaceful time with loved ones and delicious homemade food. 

To mark the new year, I made a list of “Ins” for 2026 and “Outs” I am leaving behind in 2025. This was a social post, and you can read my lists in full here.

Some of my “Ins” include: handwritten thank-you notes, declaring IPV an epidemic, everyone being cancer-free, learning to make dumplings, dumping Ford, and getting a dog. 

The “Outs” that I am leaving in 2025 are: mindless scrolling, billionaires, policing gender, AI-generated government IPV reports, overcommitting, cops in schools, clutter, and – of course – Doug Ford! 

Another thing that is IN for 2026? The NDP and the courts are holding the Ford government to account! On Monday, an Ontario court ordered Ford to turn over his personal phone records in response to numerous freedom of information requests. 

Ford has made no secret of using his personal phone and email to conduct government business. Due to these choices, there has been no accountability and no access to these records, and Ford wants to keep it that way. 

This issue goes back to the beginning of the Greenbelt scandal, when the Ontario NDP demanded that the Cabinet Secretary lock down the Premier’s records. We have continuously called for transparency from Doug Ford and his government, despite their constant refusal to provide it.

It is shameful that Ontarians had to take the Conservatives to court to get answers about this, but Ford plans to waste more time and taxpayer dollars with another appeal. Just like the scandalous Skills Development Fund, he pulls out all the stops to avoid being honest with the people of our province. 

Make no mistake, Ontarians deserve the truth, and we will get it.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Ontario Sues Recipient of SDF, Ontarians Foot the Bill
• Holiday Meal in Regent Park
• Ford’s New Recycling Program Stumbles
• Regulatory Changes Coming for Deaths in Corrections - Have Your Say
• A New Year Message from Trustee Deborah Williams
• Meeting with the Ontario Salt Pollution Coalition
• Outdoor Skating Rinks in Toronto Centre
• What’s Making Headlines
• Local Community Events

Today, we learned that the Ford government has filed a $25 million lawsuit against Keel Digital Solutions, a recipient of Skills Development Funds personally chosen by scandal-ridden Labour Minister David Piccini.

The Minister of Labour bragged about hand-picking Keel Digital Solutions to receive public money over other, higher-scoring applications. Then, his government triggered a forensic audit of that same company, leading to an OPP investigation, before finally suing them for fraud.

Doling out millions of taxpayer dollars to such a shady company can only be explained by preferential treatment. Remember; Minister Piccini partied in Paris at Keel lobbyist Michael Rudderham’s wedding, and enjoyed rinkside hockey seats with their executive Peter Zackarow.

Rather than take accountability for this mess, Ford is once again going to court to cover his tracks, and it's Ontario taxpayers left footing the bill. He has ignored my calls to remove this Minister for too long already; it’s time for the Premier to do the right thing and fire him.

As the holiday season drew to a close, it was heartwarming to join the Regent Park community once again to share a meal this past Sunday. Thank you to Khurram Aftab and his team at Sam’s Food Stores for working so hard to prepare such delicious food! 

It was a joy to serve a meal to community members and to bring gifts for Santa to share with the kids. 

Many Torontonians did not get their recycling picked up as planned last week, as Circular Materials, the new private recycling group that has producers pay for the recycling of their products, took over from the City of Toronto. 

The first week of January is when most holiday-season recycling is collected. It is one of the highest-volume pickup weeks of the year. And it is when Circular Materials was required to begin collecting recycling. Circular Materials understandably struggled with this, as it was their first week and also one of the most complex of the entire year. The Province could have shifted this timeline to avoid these predictable issues and provide a better experience to residents, but they failed to do so. 

I spoke with CBC journalist Gabriela Silva Pointe about this issue for her article referenced above. I told her: 

“This government is breaking a system that largely worked, and nobody asked for this. Now they're creating a lot of chaos and confusion, and at the end of the day, it's actually Ontarians that are stuck with the problem.”

“Now Torontonians have got to find new places to store recyclable material in wet, cold and freezing conditions. And it's happening at the worst time of the year.”

The Ontario government is considering changes to how non-natural deaths that occur in correctional facilities (as well as deaths resulting from injuries sustained in corrections) are handled in Ontario and they are asking for your feedback. 

The current process is that each death receives a full jury inquest, something that can only happen after all criminal proceedings and other investigations surrounding the death are complete. This often means that the inquest is not complete until 5-7 years after the death occurred. 

The province is proposing that mandatory inquests be replaced with a mandatory coroner-led annual review of all non-natural deaths in corrections for a given year. Families of the deceased could still request a full inquest in addition to the review if they desire. 

With a government as dishonest as the Conservatives, it is hard to see how this change could result in life-saving practices being implemented sooner without robbing families of a full inquest should they request it. We also know that this government is systemically failing to act on inquest recommendations, including those related to the death of Soleiman Faqiri, so it is hard to be sure that a faster timeline would improve the situation. Much more needs to be done to hold this government to account and create safer environments within corrections. 

Have your voice heard! Share your comments here. 

I am thrilled to pass along the message below from Deborah Williams, the democratically elected TDSB trustee for Toronto Centre and University-Rosedale. Deborah is a tireless advocate for our communities, even as she has been stripped of her duties and privileges by the Ministry of Education's massive overreach. 

Here is Deborah Williams’ message: 

Happy New Year! Wishing everyone a joyful and hopeful start to 2026. Even in moments when governments fuel despair, we have the power to choose hope instead. Together, we can reject fear and division, lift one another up, and ensure that the most vulnerable among us are never left behind.

Ontario families deserve responsible leadership - not taxpayer-funded ads that scapegoat trustees while our schools face chronic underfunding, rising needs, and classrooms stretched to the limit. Tax dollars should support students, not government messaging that undermines confidence in public education or the people who keep schools running. Many of Ontario’s strongest education policies began with local trustees and were later adopted province‑wide (including full‑day kindergarten, child care in schools, safe schools reforms, mental health frameworks, concussion protocols, codes of conduct, ombudsman oversight, Indigenous education, and student trustees).

As we look ahead, our public education system continues to face real pressures. Since 2018, Ontario schools have been underfunded by $6.35 billion, leaving many boards in deficit, facing rising costs, growing student needs, and major special education shortfalls. Families, educators, and community members across the province are speaking up, and your voices matter.

This month, there are important opportunities for the public to be heard. I encourage all community members (including school councils, parents, caregivers, and residents) to share these consultations widely and take part.

Ontario 2026 Pre‑Budget Consultations: The Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs will meet to conduct 2026 Pre-Budget Consultations. Written submissions due before January 29, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (EST). See more information > HERE

Ontario Survey - 2026 Budget Consultations: We want to hear from you! Tell us how Ontario’s next budget can help support your family, business or community. Closing date: January 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. See the link to the survey > HERE

Proposal for regulations under the Education Act, related to school boards and local police services. Comments for this regulatory proposal are due by February 2, 2026, at the following link > HERE

Research shows that schools are safest when we focus on student well‑being, not policing. That means investing in mental‑health supports, social workers, child and youth workers, and restorative practices as the foundation of safety. Police should only be involved in clearly defined situations, with strong human rights protections to prevent disproportionate impacts on marginalized students. Any provincial regulations must ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful student voice - always keeping educational and well‑being goals at the centre of decision‑making.

Local democracy matters. These consultations are an opportunity for all of us to advocate for strong, well‑funded public schools. I am asking you to stay engaged. Share information with neighbours. Every action - big or small - helps build the momentum we need.

CALL TO ACTION:

Call and Email Premier Doug Ford at 416-325-1941, [email protected] & Education Minister Paul Calandra at 416-325-2600, [email protected] to DEMAND they:

• Fund Our Schools!
• Fund education to match inflation
• Fully fund special education and student supports
• Repeal Bill 33

Thank you for everything you do to support our schools and our neighbourhoods. When we act together, we build a more caring, inclusive, and hopeful future.

Best Regards,

Deborah Williams

Elected Trustee, TDSB Ward 10 University-Rosedale and Toronto Centre (*June 27, 2025 TDSB under supervision of the Ministry of Education)

During the TDSB supervision period, Deborah Williams can be reached at

[email protected]

SIGN-UP for Deborah Williams Updates & Advocacy

There are growing environmental and public health impacts from the overuse of road salt across Ontario. I was pleased to meet with the Ontario Salt Pollution Coalition and their partner organizations yesterday to be brought up to speed on how this winter practice affects our lakes, drinking water, and the environment. 

Protecting our waters is a year-round responsibility, and I look forward to working alongside the Coalition on this important issue in the weeks and months to come. Keep your eyes out for updates!

The City of Toronto operates many public skating rinks in Toronto Centre and beyond every winter! Skating is a great way to get outside, move your body, and have fun during the cold months, either with friends and family or by yourself. 

Toronto centre is home to rinks at Toronto Metropolitan University Square pond, College Park skating loop, the Moss Park Arena (indoors), and Regent Park Athletic Grounds. 

For a full list of locations and free skate times click here to visit the City’s website.

Another murder prosecution falls apart and frees accused, this time in bounty killings of 2 brothers

Mayor Chow says Toronto's 2026 budget will prioritize affordability

Province sues company for over $25M, alleges fraud linked to Skills Development Fund 

How this flu season is sending Ontario seniors into a ‘downward spiral’ 

Toronto’s high unemployment, affordability concerns to hinder real estate recovery, economists say 

Unemployment rate climbed to 6.8% in December, StatCan says - National 

Chrystia Freeland’s resignation as Liberal MP takes effect Friday 

Regent Park Social Development Plan (SDP) leaders are pleased to invite community members, youth, artists, organizations, and local leaders to participate in the upcoming Kiwanis Black History Month Community Event, on Saturday February 21, 2026 at the ADA SLAIGHT HALL. (Full Day Event)

This event will be a vibrant celebration of Youth, culture, leadership, and community resilience. It will centre community voices, highlight youth creativity, and create space for learning, connection, and collective pride.

They are currently welcoming expressions of interest in the following areas:

Ways to Participate

• Youth performers and artists (music, spoken word, dance, visual arts)
• Community organizations and service providers interested in hosting resource tables
• Youth entrepreneurs and vendors
• Speakers, facilitators, and cultural contributors
• Volunteers to support event coordination and day-of activities

Why Participate

• Showcase your work, talent, or services to a broad community audience
• Connect with residents, youth, families, and partner organizations
• Contribute to a meaningful Black History Month celebration rooted in community leadership and empowerment
• Support youth engagement, cultural expression, and community connection

The Kiwanis Black History Month Event is being organized in collaboration with community partners and is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to all.

Next Steps

If you or your organization are interested in participating, please contact the SDP coordinators  at your earliest time with a brief description of your interest and how you would like to be involved. Additional event details, logistics, and confirmations will be shared with confirmed participants. To express interest, please email [email protected]. 

PTP is thrilled to announce that a new cohort of Get Started in Canada will begin in the new year! This program supports newcomer women in setting meaningful goals, strengthening employability skills, and earning micro‑certificates to boost their career journey. 

Program overview:

Dates:  Jan 26 - Mar 20, 2026

Time:   9:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Days:   Mondays  to  Thursdays (hybrid and virtual options)

What participants will get:

• Micro-certificates such as WHMIS, Business Writing, Customer Service, and more
• Goal-setting support and enhanced job search skills
• Increased confidence and workplace communication skills

How to apply:

Fill out the inquiry form here:  Get Started in Canada - PTP

Birthmark is hosting an Ontario Arts Council–supported initiative: Here, Hold My Grief, an arts-based workshop series designed for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced grief during family building.

Workshops will take place in Toronto between January–April 2026 and offer a supportive, creative space for reflection, healing, and community connection.

For more information: [email protected] 

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.

Do you know a phenomenal leader in your community who deserves recognition?

Kristyn Wong-Tam will be awarding six people with a prestigious Toronto Centre Leadership Award in June 2026.

This honour recognizes individuals who have made a profound and lasting contribution to the Toronto Centre community in any field. This can include the arts, politics, community building, healthcare, and beyond!

Submit your nominee here!

Dear Neighbour,

Yesterday, Ontario’s Integrity Commissioner saw the merit in Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stile’s formal complaint about the Skills Development Fund (SDF) and agreed to open an investigation. This is good news! Ford’s SDF scandal is on a path similar to Ford’s Greenbelt giveaway: escalating audits around a fall-guy Ford clings to. I hope the RCMP provides us with the update we deserve soon on that investigation.

The Greenbelt investigation, as you may recall, was also catalyzed by a damning Auditor General report (that the Ontario NDP helped launch by documenting the proof of corruption). The SDF had that moment earlier this month when the Auditor General called out Ford's process as ”not fair, transparent or accountable, and there was little rationale to explain why the high-ranked applicants were not chosen.” The subsequent 2023 Integrity Commissioner review triggered a political firestorm that forced Ford to reverse his Greenbelt giveaway, led to the dismissal of a Minister, and prompted an RCMP investigation. 

Marit’s letter called on the Integrity Commissioner to investigate Labour Minister David Piccini for reportedly breaching sections of the Member’s Integrity Act by running the Skills Development Fund like a piggy bank for Ford’s friends. The Integrity Commissioner is taking this seriously and will exercise its powers under section 33 of the Public Inquiries Act. This means that witnesses can be legally compelled to testify!

That said, the Skills Development Fund scandal is more complex than the Greenbelt scandal. Marit made an excellent video explanation about it here that can help anyone who feels out of the loop catch up on all its moving pieces.

Speaking of moving pieces, I share Ontario Place for All’s outrage with Ford’s proposal to have a combined outlet that will mix and discharge stormwater and raw sewage into Lake Ontario by Ontario Place during heavy rains. The existing discharge around Ontario Place, which is also combined, has multiple discharge points. It’s not ideal, but at least it distributes waste, diluting risk. And let’s not forget: any sewer work is an opportunity to invest in improvements that do not mix stormwater and sewage, but Ford is going for the easiest solution to help speed up the construction of his luxury spa at Ontario Place. 

So what is at stake then? The vague and unclear language in Ford’s proposal makes it possible that distributed waste outlets in the vicinity of Ontario Place could be consolidated into a single point by the West Channel’s breakwater.  And Ford’s secrecy is making communities worried. 

How can this lack of transparency be allowed? Ford’s Bill 5, which Ford rammed into law earlier this year, allows his government to limit public consultation, transparency, and feedback on infrastructure projects. 

Our recent federal candidate, Samantha Green, when interviewed about this, put it well: "Allowing raw sewage into this part of Lake Ontario will make people sick”.

As we close this week, this will be my final newsletter for 2025. My team and I will be back in the new year. My community office is now commencing our holiday break, and we will return on January 5, 2025. Until then, I wish you all a happy Chanukah, a very merry Christmas, the warmest of holidays, and a happy New Year! This year has been full of change, and I hope you can spend time with your loved ones and recharge before the new year.

And at year's end, I do want to remind everyone that now is a great time to make a year-end donation to the Toronto Centre NDP riding association. You will receive your tax receipt early in the new year, and you will receive a 75% tax rebate on any yearly donation total under $500. Donations made during the election do not count to that rebate total either! That means you can donate $400 to support our team, I will fight Ford, and you will receive $300 back when you file your taxes in early 2026!

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Justice For Soleiman Faqiri
• Can the Ford government handle basic paperwork?
• Pre-Budget consultations
• What’s Making Headlines
• Local Community Events

This past Monday, December 16, marked 9 years since the homicide of Soleiman (Soli) Faqiri in an Ontario Corrections facility in 2016. Monday also marked over 2 years since Ontario’s Coroner made recommendations to prevent future prison deaths after ruling Soli’s death a homicide. Soli was experiencing a mental health crisis and was being denied access to mental health care. He was killed after a confrontation with guards, where he was taken into a room that had no security cameras and sustained over 50 injuries while being restrained, face down. 

Since Soli’s death, Ford has refused to speak to the Faqiri family. On Monday, I joined Soli’s brother, Yusuf Faqiri, and Emily Coyle, executive director of the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies, to call on the government to work with families and workers to ensure that no one dies in custody in Ontario. 

Ford was asked about why he refuses to speak with the Faqiri family late on Monday at a press conference, and added insult to injury, saying that “Stay out of jails, stop breaking the law, and you won’t have anything to worry about.”  Soli was in jail because of a schizoaffective episode. Soli had no real choice about whether to follow or break the law. Schizoaffective disorders should be treated in mental health care settings. They are impossible to treat in Ontario’s broken correctional system, where people are regularly triple-bunked in facilities where workers and inmates are both unsafe. 

The tragedy faced by the Faqiri family speaks to so many Ontarians because, as the saying goes, ‘there but for the grace of God go I’. Everyone in Ontario has either experienced a mental health crisis or knows a family member or friend who has been in crisis. To think that a beloved friend, member of the family or oneself could be in such a vulnerable moment, only to be restrained and beaten to death face down when needing mental health care, is gut-wrenching. Our province should be — must be — better than that. 

I repeated previous calls for the government to pass my bill, the Justice for Soli Act, that would force the government to implement the Coroner’s first recommendation: to recognize that correctional facilities are not suitable for people facing mental health crises. This should be simple, just like apologizing to the Faqiri family should be simple. It boggles any reasonable person’s mind — until you realize that passing my bill, or apologizing to the Faqiri family, means admitting that this government does not know what they are doing, and all of their ideas to make things better move us in the wrong direction. 

Today, I joined workers and MPP Alexa Gilmour to call on the Ontario government to fix the Ontario International Nominee Program (OINP). 

The OINP was designed to help employers fill urgent labour shortages that our domestic workforce cannot fill today. Nominees are qualified in skilled trades that yes, Ontario should invest in training, but that take more time than the present moment is giving us during a trade war, housing crisis, and climate emergency. 

While Ford and Piccini focused on turning the Skills Development Fund into a piggy bank for their friends, they completely mismanaged this program in the same Ministry. Nominees arrived with an eager employer, the skills Ontario needs — only to learn that Ford failed to get the paperwork ready for them to work legally. 

Employers are frustrated, as are the potential investors Ontario absolutely needs to be courting right now to diversify our economy away from the United States. But no one is getting answers. 

I have seen the incredible work ethic of OINP applicants firsthand. They might be stuck in Kafkaesque limbo, but they have not sat on their hands. They have demonstrated outside of Queen’s Park every single day, demanding that Ford do the bare minimum and process their paperwork. The paperwork that the government knew they had to fill when asking them to fill workforce gaps in Ontario. 

I have gone out and spoken to OINP workers many times while the house was sitting. They have come back every day, holding posters with clearly frost-bitten hands, asking if their mistreatment is the real Ontario. After all, these workers were invited by our government to come here. These people have eager employers facing critical gaps in our workforce that Ontario literally cannot train overnight. It’s like Ford only wants to talk about standing up for Ontario when the cameras are rolling and not when his team has to do the job of actually governing.

So here we are: nominees are finding out that the Ford government is as serious as a beautiful foreign bride advertising herself on a torrenting website. 

While this failure hurts OINP workers most, it makes everyone in Ontario worse off. Ontario could have more homes under construction right now as I write this. That would mean more local demand for cement, building supplies, and Canadian steel. Ontario could have new telecom infrastructure that makes companies choose to invest millions of dollars and create thousands of new jobs in Ontario. But Ford is failing to do the most basic of jobs of a competent government: processing the very forms he gave people to complete. 

The antisemitic terrorist attack that killed eleven people in Australia on Bondi Beach is an evil act of hate. My heart goes out to Jewish communities whose Chanukah gatherings will have grief and fear when they deserve to gather and light menorahs in faith, community, and joy.

Jewish Ontarians need our government to confront antisemitism with action such as making investments into education to prevent hate at the source. Hate has no place in Ontario. This hate crime might be abroad, but we put Ontarians at risk if our government fails to heed the warning and act now.

Pre-Budget consultations are happening across the province and we want you to raise your voice.

The Ontario NDP’s Shadow Finance Minister, MPP Jessica Bell, has attended two consultations so far. She told me she heard loud and clear that Ontario’s health-care system, especially primary care, is under real strain, low wages are pushing workers out, and this government needs to invest where people actually live and work. She also heard loud and clear that supportive housing is the most humane and cost-effective way to solve the concurrent homelessness, mental health, and addiction issues we are seeing in our communities. 

You can sign up to speak in person or virtually, or submit written comments through the Legislature’s committee portal. When applying, select “2026 Pre-Budget Consultations.” You do not need to sign up for the community where you live. If the Toronto consultations are over-subscribed, you can sign up to appear virtually in another location. 

Upcoming Pre-Budget Consultations: 

• Brockville - January 13, 2026
• Ottawa - January 14, 2026
• Pembroke - January 15, 2026
• Kitchener - January 20, 2026
• London - January 21, 2026
• Niagara Falls - January 22, 2026
• Kapuskasing - January 27, 2026
• Thunder Bay - January 28, 2026
• Sudbury - January 29, 2026

Deadlines to request to speak or submit written comments:

• January 5, 2026 at 12PM (EST) - Brockville, Ottawa and Pembroke
• January 12, 2026 at 12PM (EST) - Kitchener, London and Niagara Falls
• January 19, 2026 at 12PM (EST) - Kapuskasing, Thunder Bay and Sudbury
• January 29, 2026 at 6PM (EST) - Final deadline for written submissions

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Bring the whole family to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario this holiday season for an unforgettable celebration of free and festive fun! Over the course of two evenings, two Saturdays, and two special weekdays in December, Festive Lights serves up a wide variety of programming that will delight Ontarians of all ages.

Enjoy hands-on crafts, seasonal activities, and live music. Meet Santa and beloved characters. Stroll through the park, surrounded by the glow of the holiday lights, and snap photos under dazzling displays both inside and outside the Legislative Building. Explore Ontario’s history while surrounded by holiday cheer and browse the Legislative Gift Shop for unique Ontario-made treasures. Feeling hungry? Festive refreshments and treats will be available for purchase throughout the event.

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, Festive Lights makes for a perfect evening with friends and colleagues, or a fun-filled day for the whole family. We look forward to welcoming you.

Event dates: December 20, 22, 23

Location: Ontario's Legislative Building, Queen's Park, Toronto (just north of the TTC Queen's Park subway station). 

All visitors entering the Legislative Building must go through airport-style security screening. 

Cost: Free admission. $10 per person for Pancakes with Santa.

Registration: Required for December 17, 22, and 23. Register today.

PTP is thrilled to announce that a new cohort of Get Started in Canada will begin in the new year! This program supports newcomer women in setting meaningful goals, strengthening employability skills, and earning micro‑certificates to boost their career journey. 

Program overview:

Dates:  Jan 26 - Mar 20, 2026

Time:   9:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Days:   Mondays  to  Thursdays (hybrid and virtual options)

What participants will get:

• Micro-certificates such as WHMIS, Business Writing, Customer Service, and more
• Goal-setting support and enhanced job search skills
• Increased confidence and workplace communication skills

How to apply:

Fill up the inquiry form here:  Get Started in Canada - PTP

The Black Student Summer Leadership Program is a paid summer internship for Black TDSB high school students. Participants gain hands-on job experience, mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities to build confidence, skills, and community connections. 

Please note: This program is open only to students attending Toronto District School Board schools.

Important Dates

• Application Period: December 8, 2025 – January 9, 2026
• Interviews: February 2026

Offer of Employment: March 2026

The TDSB Learn4Life Adult General Interest and Seniors Day programs, Winter 2025 term is now open for registration. The TDSB also has over 50 languages and African Heritage classes for elementary school aged children!

 Browse Courses & Register: https://www.tdsb.on.ca/adult-learners/learn4life

United Way Greater Toronto and the University of Toronto’s School of Cities are launching this year’s Leading Social Justice Collective (LSJC) - a unique, cross-sector leadership program for changemakers across the GTA. As our communities face growing inequities and complex challenges, we need leaders from all sectors – community, public, and private - to come together to reimagine and rebuild our systems.

LSJC equips participants with the mindset, tools, and networks to drive long-term, systems-level change rooted in equity and social justice.

Applications are now open until December 12, 2025: [Apply here] 

Birthmark is hosting an Ontario Arts Council–supported initiative: Here, Hold My Grief, an arts-based workshop series designed for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced grief during family building.

Workshops will take place in Toronto between January–April 2026 and offer a supportive, creative space for reflection, healing, and community connection.

For more information: [email protected]

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.

Do you know a phenomenal leader in your community who deserves recognition?

Kristyn Wong-Tam will be awarding six people with a prestigious Toronto Centre Leadership Award in June 2026.

This honour recognizes individuals who have made a profound and lasting contribution to the Toronto Centre community in any field. This can include the arts, politics, community building, or healthcare.
Submit your nominee's information here, and we will go through them to make an informed decision on who to award.