As I work to advocate for our communities, I will be sharing updates of my work through a continuation of my regular newsletter.
You can choose if you to receive local updates, provincial updates, or both!
As I work to advocate for our communities, I will be sharing updates of my work through a continuation of my regular newsletter.
You can choose if you to receive local updates, provincial updates, or both!
Dear Neighbour,
This week, we learned something shocking: Ford’s plan for phase two of the Ontario Place redevelopment seems to include paving over parts of Lake Ontario to make room for more development. This is after they gave themselves sweeping powers to skip environmental assessments and change zoning without consulting Toronto City Council.
Ford and his Ministers must come clean about their plan for Ontario Place, which has been shrouded in secrecy and reeking of backroom deals since the start. Every week, there seems to be more evidence that Ford’s Conservatives don’t want the public to know the truth about their plans.
Global News published an excellent report on documents obtained by the NDP through Freedom of Information (FOI) that reveals evidence of “Phase II” plans to fill in the lake at East Island. You can read the report here.
If it wasn’t bad enough that Ford’s Conservatives are using hundreds of millions of public dollars to subsidize a private luxury spa, going so far as to build them an underwater parking lot with public money, now they’re looking to pave over part of the lake.
I agree with my colleague, NDP MPP Chris Glover, who said, “With this secret plan to fill in the lake, it’s no wonder Ford’s Conservatives exempted the redevelopment of Ontario Place from environmental laws. A taxpayer subsidy, parkland giveaway, and now environmental devastation, there’s more than enough reasons to stop this project.”
The Ontario NDP put forward a motion this week at the Standing Committee for Government Agencies to review Ontario Place, this was eventually voted down by the Conservatives in another clear attempt to cover their tracks.
Ontario Place is a gem that should be able to be enjoyed by all Ontarians, not just a playground for the rich. This government needs a reality check - they were not elected to serve their wealthy friends to the exclusion of all others.
I will never stop fighting for you.
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In this Newsletter |
Ford Denies 2.2M Ontarians a Family Doctor |
On Monday the Ontario NDP tabled an Opposition Day Motion to put patients first and solve the family doctor crisis in Ontario. This was a common sense motion that would have reduced the paperwork burden on existing family doctors and increased their capacity to see new patients. The government voted it down.
There are currently 2.2 million Ontarians who do not have a family physician; their health is at imminent risk because of their lack of access to primary health care. Amid this chronic shortage, family physicians spend an average of 20 hours a week doing paperwork: burgeoning insurance forms, sick notes, and requests for prescriptions. This represents up to 40% of their working time.
One solution put forward by the Ontario NDP is for the province to provide support to primary care providers that would free up their time to see patients instead of pushing paperwork.
If every family doctor across Ontario had access to an integrated primary care team with sufficient nurses, interdisciplinary health, and administrative staff to reduce the load of paperwork, the time freed up would be equivalent to adding 2,000 doctors to the system. An estimated additional 2 million Ontarians could have a family doctor. The difference that would make to our healthcare system is almost unquantifiable. It would free up spaces in our emergency rooms, catch serious illnesses earlier, and help people live longer healthier lives.
Instead of adopting this common sense motion to get Ontarians the care they need, this government continues to push for privatized care that prioritizes those who can pay for access.
But this is not over. We will continue to fight until every single person in Ontario has a family doctor.
Federal Government Adopts NDP Motion on Palestine |
Last week, I told you about the Federal NDP MP Heather McPherson’s motion concerning the humanitarian crisis in Palestine.
This past Monday, it was debated, and many last-minute revisions were made in order for the Liberals to come on side. This resulted in a watered-down version of the original motion that softened both mentions of Palestinian Statehood and the sale of military goods with Israel. Even with those changes, it is still a groundbreaking and deeply necessary motion at this time of humanitarian crisis and near-famine in Gaza.
You can watch MP McPherson’s powerful and heartwrenching debate here and read all about the events of the evening as reported by CBC here and by the Toronto Star here.
So much more must be done by Canada and the international community to answer the call of the people of Gaza for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and a just and lasting peace in the region.
Regent Park Community Health Centre Strike |
Workers at Regent Park Community Health Centre take care of our community. We need to show them solidarity now as they strike for fair wages and benefits. Their benefits have been frozen for over 30 years -- and this is unacceptable. Their picket lines will go from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM on Monday and they are asking community members to show up in Solidarity. It was an honour to join them and show support today!
Local Community News |
350 Bloor St. East Community Consultation Meeting |
Back in 2022, the City of Toronto invited interested parties to participate in providing concerns and feedback about the redevelopment proposal for 350 Bloor St. East. BENA became an active participant and has provided concerns and feedback throughout the redevelopment process. Thank you to our residents who have also registered and shared feedback! The project has progressed through several milestones (e.g. shadow impacts) and it is now entering the Construction Management planning stage. It is also going to the Toronto East York Community Council in early April. BENA is providing residents with an update at this upcoming meeting:
When: March 25, 2024; 7:00 pm
Where: Zoom (Registration required)
What: Update on 350 Bloor St. East redevelopment, prior to TEYCC
Register in advance here.
Toronto Intergenerational PartnershipsYard Work Help |
Spring is in the air!
If you are a senior or know one who needs help with outdoor work like grass cutting, leaf raking, or light gardening, Toronto Intergenerational Partnerships can help!
Toronto Intergenerational Partnerships is a non-profit service agency that has been in existence since 1986. For more information, visit their website here.
Beyond Labels Queer Fashion Show |
Passion for fashion? Beyond Labels is a Queer Fundraising Fashion Show!
Get ready to experience the vibrant world of queer fashion and breathtaking drag performances by:
Naomi Leone https://www.instagram.com/naomileone_/
Ella Mayo https://www.instagram.com/ellamayoreally/
Event Details: March 26th, 6 pm onwards @ 918 Bathurst Centre.
Tickets: $15 - hurry, they're going fast!
Visit @beyondlabelsfashionshow or www.beyondlabel2024.com for more details.
St. Lawrence Market Arts at the Market |
Arts at the Market celebrates the unique talents of local artisans who offer high-quality handmade goods for sale at the St. Lawrence Market. These artisans will fill the outdoor spaces of the Market with fresh, new, lively, and creative energy from April through October, animating and adding vivacity to the Complex.
Are you an artist, craftsperson, or designer? Do you want to sell your high-quality handmade goods at one of the world’s top markets? If so, we’d love for you to be part of Arts at the Market!
Apply by April 1 for early admission to the 2024 program.
Applications and details available here.
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts Transformation |
You’re invited to view the future of the transformed St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts!
The design team of Hariri Pontarini Architects and LMN Architects with Smoke Architecture and Tawaw Architecture Collective will present their inspired design concepts for STLC to become a multi-faceted performing arts destination. This bold reimagining includes two state-of-the-art performance halls along with creative spaces and studios, rehearsal rooms, and informal gathering areas. The team will demonstrate how the building extends an open embrace to the city to create an energized arts corridor and a new pulsing heart in downtown Toronto.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback. For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to join us via livestream at stlcnext.org. The livestream link will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the meeting on March 26.
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
6 pm – 8 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm)
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Jane Mallett Theatre, 27 Front St. E.
Cabbagetown Cares Fundraiser
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Announcing the Cabbagetown Cares Fundraiser! From March 1 to March 30, 2024, The Cabbagetown BIA is teaming up with Dixon Hall and Saint Luke's United Church to support our neighbours.
As food insecurity continues to rise in Cabbagetown, St James Town, and Regent Park, it's more important than ever to lend a helping hand. That's where YOU come in!
Simply shop at any of the 14 participating businesses throughout March, where a portion of proceeds from select items will be donated to the fundraiser. All donated proceeds will be split between the Dixon Hall and St Luke's Church meals programs. It's that easy!
Click here for the full list of business offers.
Cabbagetown Festival 2024 Vendor Registration |
The Cabbagetown Festival is one of Toronto’s longest-running and most beloved street festivals, and this year it will be returning, bigger than ever!
They are inviting over 75,000 locals and visitors across the GTA to enjoy a family-friendly, entertainment-packed weekend, including live music performances, fantastic food, Kid’s Zone, and over 200 unique vendors from Cabbagetown and beyond!
The Cabbagetown Festival is celebrating its 45th year - After returning with a bang last year, The Festival is primed to become one of the most-anticipated events in Toronto! Starting at $230 for the lowest vendor level for two days, they invite business owners to apply to join them as a vendor as we celebrate this milestone.
Dates: September 7 and 8
Location: Parliament Street and Carlton Street, Cabbagetown, Toronto
Apply and pay by May 31 to take advantage of this early-bird pricing! Prices go up June 1, as long as space remains available! CabbagetownTO.com @CabbagetownBIA
Exhibit Opening: Blueprint |
BLUEPRINT asks: “Who gets to be beautiful?”
This exhibit runs March 2-31, 2024 at 420 Queen Street East
BLUEPRINT is a collection of mixed media collages created by Zandra Jack, a Toronto-based digital artist who works under the pseudonym, UNKWNZJ.
With a passion for altering geometric and curvilinear forms, UNKWNZJ’s work is a unique departure from more traditional modes of portraiture that lean on being as naturalistic to the human form as possible. Her subjects often don enlarged facial features and intensely darkened skin, aspects that she further amplifies with her use of bold color and intricate patterns. UNKWNZJ’s distinct creations exist as a disruption to the prevailing standards of beauty. BLUEPRINT challenges the status quo by paying homage to the unconventional; the features of black beauty that are undervalued yet paradoxically commodified in society.
We would also like to extend a warm invite to audiences to take part in an in-person, interactive workshop that will be led by UNKWNZJ:
When: Saturday March 16, 12-4 PM
Where: 420 Queen Street East
Through hands-on activities and guided instruction, participants will create mixed media artworks by experimenting with various materials and collaging techniques to bring forth their own artistic visions. This event is free of charge, but space is limited. Please RSVP here.
Ward 10 Forum: Supporting Student Literacy and Numeracy |
DATE: Thursday, April 18, 2024
TIME: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
LOCATION: Virtual/Online via Zoom
Please join Trustee Williams for a Ward 10 Forum with Trustee Williams to discuss the ways we can support student literacy and numeracy. TDSB staff will make elementary school and secondary school presentations. They will also have updates from the Trustee and Superintendents.
Everyone is welcome.
How to Register: Please Sign Up Here to confirm your attendance.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Regent Park Cafe is Officially Open! |
After the Regent Park Cafe launch, they are now open and operational every Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 8 PM. If you are near Daniels Spectrum at 585 Dundas St. East, pop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
We have all seen the ads for the new Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent. Many of us have even watched the first few episodes. But what if I told you there is a new series in town? It is just as gripping and shocking but even more upsetting because it is unfolding in front of us in real time. Introducing: Law & Order Queen’s Park: Greenbelt FOI This video is hilarious and was a lot of fun to put together, but the subject matter is serious. Our Premier is under criminal investigation by the RCMP. Ministers and senior staff went to great lengths to conceal their work, using code words like G*, deleting correspondence, and using personal email addresses to conduct government business. The only reason that we know as much as we do about this corruption scandal is because of the hard work of the Ontario NDP and outside advocates filing Freedom of Information requests to uncover the truth. The NDP’s most recent FOI yielded 3,776 pages of documents from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, many bearing code words and acronyms clearly meant to conceal the actual topic of conversation. I will never stop pushing for the truth. There must be consequences for those who tried to trade away our precious Greenbelt and further enrich their wealthy friends. In sad local news, two people were killed and three others injured this week by Arnold and Dundas St. E. The violence seems to have erupted within one family, with a young man allegedly killing his father and brother and wounding his mother. This is devastating. My thoughts go out to all those feeling fresh loss and to those reliving the trauma of past events. Amid this tragedy, I am also in awe of neighbour Hani Afrah, who bravely ran into the house where the violence began after the injured mother called for help for her toddler, who remained in the house. Hani Afrah took brave steps to ensure that the child was safe. When events like this happen, it is natural to feel scared. I hope that we can all carry that fear and sadness in the community alongside the knowledge that so much work has been done to create peace in Regent Park and beyond. That work is ongoing and full of hope. If you are looking for ways to get involved, I would encourage you to reach out to Regent Park Mothers of Peace, Regent Park Shoot for Peace, and the Regent Park Social Development Plan Committees. So much incredible work is already happening in the community, and there’s always more to do. As your provincial representative and the Critic for the Attorney General I am leading the calls for real bail reform. Bail should be compassionate, while also ensuring that the 15-30 most dangerous people who are caught and released regularly finally encounter a bail system that holds them accountable. The bail system in Ontario should not let people who pose an active threat back to the streets where they hurt people. I helped write the committee report on the modernization of the bail system in Ontario, which you can read here. I know it is just a report, but it is the first step the government is taking before bringing forward new legislation with concrete changes to the bail system. I have been working alongside frontline workers, families, and justice experts to develop real proposals to fix Ontario's justice system. I will let you know when these plans are ready soon through this newsletter.
I know that many of you are as concerned about the ongoing war on Gaza as I am. I am incredibly proud of the strong and principled stance that the NDP has taken since the beginning of the conflict. On Monday, the NDP's motion to combat the humanitarian crisis in Gaza will be put to a vote. We need this motion to pass to push the Liberal government to action. I encourage everyone to reach out to Justin Trudeau and request that he and his MPs support the motion. I also want to wish a happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone celebrating. It is an honour to serve you,
Kristyn Wong-Tam MPP, Toronto Centre
The Toronto Centre Federal NDP is gearing up for the next federal election since it could be right around the corner. The first step is nominating a candidate to run under the NDP banner. Two prospective candidates have put their names forward for the upcoming nomination race. Voting to select a candidate will take place at the upcoming nomination meeting, the details of which will be shared soon. All Toronto Centre residents who signed up to be members of the NDP at least 45 days before the nomination meeting are eligible to vote. If you want to become a member, you can do so by clicking here. If you are not sure if you are a member or if your membership is still active, you can reach out to [email protected], and they will check for you. This year, we have two prospective candidates: Brian Chang and Samantha Green. Both of these incredible people have websites where you can learn about their priorities, and community involvement, and get a sense of them as people. I encourage you to check them out: Click HERE to visit Brian Chang’s website
Being an activist and caregiver is hard work and can be emotionally all-consuming. I know this firsthand. This is why I am eager to share 52 Weeks to a Sweeter Life, a new book released by award-winning author and psychotherapist Farzana Doctor. 52 Weeks to a Sweeter Life is a practical workbook that explores self-care from an inside-out and collective approach. This book is for anyone who works with people or causes and who has struggled with burnout, vicarious trauma and finding balance. Limited tickets are available for the Toronto launch of this important book on March 21. Farzana will be in conversation with Judy Rebick at Caversham Booksellers, and I guarantee you will learn something new about self and community care. To get your free event ticket, please register here.
Ontario is in a family doctor crisis. In 2022, 2.3 million Ontarians did not have a family doctor, a number that is projected to grow to 4.4 million by 2026 if nothing is done. Currently, family doctors in Ontario spend as many as 19 hours per week —40 percent of their time—following up with patients, filling out forms and performing other administrative work that could be done by administrative staff and other interdisciplinary health staff. It doesn’t have to be this way. We can free up doctors’ time by getting them access to an integrated primary care team to take this administrative work off of their plate. This change would be equivalent to adding 2,000 doctors to the system. The current family doctor shortage not only puts Ontarians' health at risk, but it’s also putting tremendous strain on our already-overburdened emergency rooms. This is a smart, simple solution to fix the massive patient backlog and get people the care they need today. We have been hearing horrific stories from Ontarians who are trying to find a family doctor, including this shocking story from an Ottawa patient who was charged $110 for routine cancer screening because the screening was done by a nurse practitioner instead of a doctor, something that was not well communicated by the clinic she went to. I, along with the Ontario NDP caucus, are calling upon this government to hire more administrative and interdisciplinary health staff so that doctors can spend more of their precious time providing much-needed care to their patients. NDP Leader Marit Stiles tabled this solution in the legislature last week and will force a vote on Monday. I will update you on the result in next week’s newsletter.
This week my staff and I held our annual Staff Retreat, where we set goals and created plans for the year to come. It was wonderful to reflect on the work we have done over the past year, celebrating our wins and reflecting on areas where we can improve. In 2024, we are excited to host community events that bring people together, champion your legislative priorities, and continue providing the constituency services that you depend upon.
This week, the Toronto Star published this excellent article, “Rent controls work: They don’t reduce housing supply, but they do limit profit”. The article argues that bringing back rent control for all units in Ontario, not just those occupied before 2018, would be better for the market as a whole and prevent rent gouging. This is something that affordable housing advocates have known for years. The Ontario NDP has been advocating for not only the return of full rent control since the policy was enacted but also for “real rent control,” sometimes called vacancy de-control, to become law in Ontario. Real rent control would mean that a unit’s monthly rent would have to follow the annual guideline rent increase even if a tenant moved out and the unit was re-rented by a new tenant. Currently, in Ontario, when a tenant moves out, the landlord can raise the rent as much as they want. While I encourage you to read the whole article, I want to share some of my favourite quotes: “In recent years, new studies have demonstrated that rent controls work. They stabilize rent increases without negative effects. Provincial governments could put an end to skyrocketing rents right now — if they were really interested in doing so.” “In 2020, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) analyzed the impact of rent controls on construction. The study compared Canadian cities with and without rent controls. Since the CMHC has a wealth of data, it used a time series going all the way back to 1971 — almost 50 years of data at the time. The key finding of the study was that “There was no significant evidence that rental starts were lower in rent control markets than in no rent control markets.” “Between 2022 and 2023, landlords in Ontario increased rents in vacant units by an average of 36%. Bringing back controls on vacant units would prevent abusive increases. It would also remove the financial incentive for evictions and other tactics used to displace tenants.”
Sherbourne Health Centre is hosting a Trans and Non-Binary Career Fair! When: March 21, 2024, 1 PM to 4 PM Where: Sherbourne Health Centre, 333 Sherbourne Street. This event aims to provide opportunities for Sherbourne Health's trans and non-binary service users and community members to connect with prospective employers committed to diversity and inclusion. These employers have attended a presentation on creating supportive work environments for trans and non-binary employees.
The Cabbagetown BIA is looking for a new Marketing & Events Coordinator! This team member works as part of a close-knit team to assist in the implementation of marketing strategies and coordinate promotional activities, including activations and events such as The Cabbagetown Festival. Assists with connecting people, businesses, and public spaces, collaborating with partners to acquire and retain a vibrant mix of retail, and attracting more people to the area. This is a part-time, contract position running from April 15 - December 20, 2024. Applicants will ideally be between the ages of 15-30 years old, as funding for this position comes from the Canada Summer Jobs Program See the full posting here.
A six-week virtual group program led by mental health counsellors, this group explores mindfulness as a practice for managing difficult emotions, as well as cultivating greater self-compassion and self-care. Learn more here. Who: Participants who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour Next Sessions: Tuesdays from 1:30 – 2:30 PM Program starts on March 26 Registration required. Call Gouri (647-299-1464) or Dyshni (437-324-9514)
Since 2011, Jamii has been fostering connections among Esplanadians, a diverse community of individuals spanning all ages who reside, work, study, and walk on The Esplanade. Through immersive artistic experiences, we breathe life into public spaces within The Esplanade neighbourhood and our home, The Jamii Hub, crafting whimsical environments that not only cultivate shared memories among our community members but also strengthen the social bonds woven throughout our neighbourhood's fabric. Jamii has exciting events focusing on art, movement, learning and community building happening every day of the week! Click here to learn more.
Arts at the Market celebrates the unique talents of local artisans who offer high-quality handmade goods for sale at the St. Lawrence Market. These artisans will fill the outdoor spaces of the Market with fresh, new, lively, and creative energy from April through October, animating and adding vivacity to the Complex. Are you an artist, craftsperson, or designer? Do you want to sell your high-quality handmade goods at one of the world’s top markets? If so, we’d love for you to be part of Arts at the Market! Apply by April 1 for early admission to the 2024 program. Applications and details available here.
You’re invited to view the future of the transformed St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts! The design team of Hariri Pontarini Architects and LMN Architects with Smoke Architecture and Tawaw Architecture Collective will present their inspired design concepts for STLC to become a multi-faceted performing arts destination. This bold reimagining includes two state-of-the-art performance halls along with creative spaces and studios, rehearsal rooms, and informal gathering areas. The team will demonstrate how the building extends an open embrace to the city to create an energized arts corridor and a new pulsing heart in downtown Toronto. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback. For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to join us via livestream at stlcnext.org. The livestream link will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the meeting on March 26. Tuesday, March 26, 2024 6 pm – 8 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm) St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Jane Mallett Theatre, 27 Front St. E.
Announcing the Cabbagetown Cares Fundraiser! From March 1 to March 30, 2024, The Cabbagetown BIA is teaming up with Dixon Hall and Saint Luke's United Church to support our neighbours. As food insecurity continues to rise in Cabbagetown, St James Town, and Regent Park, it's more important than ever to lend a helping hand. That's where YOU come in! Simply shop at any of the 14 participating businesses throughout March, where a portion of proceeds from select items will be donated to the fundraiser. All donated proceeds will be split between the Dixon Hall and St Luke's Church meals programs. It's that easy! Click here for the full list of business offers.
The Cabbagetown Festival is one of Toronto’s longest-running and most beloved street festivals, and this year it will be returning, bigger than ever! They are inviting over 75,000 locals and visitors across the GTA to enjoy a family-friendly, entertainment-packed weekend, including live music performances, fantastic food, Kid’s Zone, and over 200 unique vendors from Cabbagetown and beyond! The Cabbagetown Festival is celebrating its 45th year - After returning with a bang last year, The Festival is primed to become one of the most-anticipated events in Toronto! Starting at $230 for the lowest vendor level for two days, they invite business owners to apply to join them as a vendor as we celebrate this milestone. Dates: September 7 and 8 Location: Parliament Street and Carlton Street, Cabbagetown, Toronto Apply and pay by May 31 to take advantage of this early-bird pricing! Prices go up June 1, as long as space remains available! CabbagetownTO.com @CabbagetownBIA
BLUEPRINT asks: “Who gets to be beautiful?” This exhibit runs March 2-31, 2024 at 420 Queen Street East BLUEPRINT is a collection of mixed media collages created by Zandra Jack, a Toronto-based digital artist who works under the pseudonym, UNKWNZJ. With a passion for altering geometric and curvilinear forms, UNKWNZJ’s work is a unique departure from more traditional modes of portraiture that lean on being as naturalistic to the human form as possible. Her subjects often don enlarged facial features and intensely darkened skin, aspects that she further amplifies with her use of bold color and intricate patterns. UNKWNZJ’s distinct creations exist as a disruption to the prevailing standards of beauty. BLUEPRINT challenges the status quo by paying homage to the unconventional; the features of black beauty that are undervalued yet paradoxically commodified in society. We would also like to extend a warm invite to audiences to take part in an in-person, interactive workshop that will be led by UNKWNZJ: Through hands-on activities and guided instruction, participants will create mixed media artworks by experimenting with various materials and collaging techniques to bring forth their own artistic visions. This event is free of charge, but space is limited. Please RSVP here.
FoSTRA (Federation of South Toronto Residents Associations) warmly invites you to the next in a series of free educational events on the theme of Housing for All, which will be held: Thursday, 21 March 2024, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM Franz Hartmann, Coordinator for the Alliance for a Liveable Ontario, presents “A Blueprint for Solving the Housing Crisis in Ontario.” Check out more details below and in the attachment. Click here to register to attend and ask a question of Franz Hartmann before the webinar.
After the Regent Park Cafe launch, they are now open and operational every Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 8 PM. If you are near Daniels Spectrum at 585 Dundas St. East, pop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
GOOD TO BE GOOD is pleased to announce a fifth cohort for the Change Make-Her program! This FREE interactive virtual program is for women and gender-diverse folks* interested in developing their entrepreneurship and leadership skills through mentorship-based training workshops, community building, peer support, resource-sharing, and other opportunities. The program is a unique development opportunity explicitly created to extend the capacity of new and early entrepreneurs through a low-barrier, inclusive, and compassionate approach. Entrepreneurship is challenging to navigate—layering being a woman or gender-diverse with intersecting identities adds another path to navigate. We believe that entrepreneurism can be a meaningful pathway to confidence, community, and independence for women and gender-diverse people facing multiple barriers. Applications are now OPEN for the Change Make-Her program! To register, email Arezoo Najibzadeh at [email protected] or sign up here. Please note that applications close Sunday, March 17.
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Happy International Women’s Day! I hope everyone takes time to acknowledge the incredible women in their lives and how the feminist movement has made our society better for everyone.
I am also extending Ramadan Mubarak to everyone observing the holy month, which will begin on Monday or Tuesday of next week, depending on the sighting of the new moon. I hope this month is rich with reflection, time spent with loved ones, and service to others. I know this Ramadan will be a difficult one as we watch horrors unfold in Gaza. I am holding all those in the region who are marking this holy month close to my heart.
This week, your Official Opposition NDP caucus obtained documents through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request showing the use of code words across thousands of pages of government records referring to the Greenbelt grab. NDP Leader Marit Stiles held the government to account with excellent questions during Question Period this week. You can watch one of her questions here.
Terms like “G*,” “Special Project,” and “SP” were found in several records, including correspondence between the ministry and the Premier’s office. In some emails, a reference to the Greenbelt had been replaced with “G.*
What these FOI-ed documents look like is intent to conceal—creative use of code words to evade public scrutiny for what this government clearly knew was wrong. For months, the Ford Conservatives claimed that there was nothing wrong with their Greenbelt grab. Clearly, they knew they had something to hide; otherwise, why would they go to such lengths to hide it?
The Narwhal’s reporter, Emma McIntosh, did an excellent in-depth report on this cover-up, which you can read here.
In other news, the vote on my Private Members Bill, the Gender Affirming Health Care Act, was held on Monday. Ford and his PCs voted it down. Based on their comments during last week's debate, I am disappointed but not surprised by this outcome.
During Question Period, immediately before the vote, I asked the Minister of Health whether she believes gender affirming care is life-saving. I also asked how Conservatives would vote on my bill. Instead of answering my questions, she belittled my bill, which was written in consultation with the Trans community. She defended Ford’s broken healthcare system by insisting Trans and gender diverse Ontarians already have adequate access to healthcare. Study after study after study confirms that they do not. You can watch my exchange with Health Minister Sylvia Jones here.
I will never stop fighting for transparent, ethical government that serves our communities.
In solidarity,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In this newsletter |
Declaring Intimate Partner Violence an Epidemic |
Yesterday, I tabled the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act. This important bill is co-sponsored by MPPs Lisa Gretzky, Jill Andrew, and Peggy Sattler. It will be called up for second reading debate on April 9 by my colleague MPP Lisa Gretzky.
If passed, this bill would declare intimate partner violence an epidemic in Ontario, compelling the Government of Ontario to take real action and support survivors, families and communities impacted by intimate partner violence.
Declaring this epidemic is the first of 86 recommendations made by the Renfrew County Inquest in 2022, which investigated the tragic and senseless murders of Carol Culleton, Anastasia Kuzyk, and Nathalie Warmerdam at the hands of their intimate partner. Today 94 municipalities across the province have declared intimate partner violence an epidemic. It is time for Ontario to join them.
Higher Energy Costs, Climate Chaos |
Ford’s Conservatives are trying to overturn the Ontario Energy Board’s decision and saddle current Enbridge customers with $300/year in extra fees to save developers the connection fees on new home builds that require new gas pipes to be laid.
This is not only preposterous but goes against advice from a public regulator that would save the average consumer money and be better for the environment. The OEB spent months coming to a conclusion in the public interest, and this government announced its intention to overturn the 147-page ruling in a matter of 15 hours.
The government’s argument is that distributing this cost among all Enbridge customers will lower the cost of new homes, but that relies on two assumptions that I am not convinced of:
In 2020, the OEB approved a $10 million pipeline proposal in North Bay, where existing ratepayers shouldered the cost, which averaged $65,000 per new home built. Despite the subsidy, a 2020 OEB report showed that these homeowners would still likely pay higher energy costs compared to if high-efficiency electric heat pumps were installed.
On Wednesday, along with MPP Sandy Shaw and the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, I sponsored a press conference to lay out the case for the OEB’s decision, arguing that it is not only the best choice for the environment but also for consumers' monthly bills. You can watch the full press conference here.
Remove 407 Tolls for Truckers |
On Monday, the Ontario NDP moved an Opposition Day Motion to remove highway 407 tolls for truckers. Ford Conservatives it down.
This move would not only make transportation of goods cheaper and more efficient, but would take heavy trucks off of other GTA highways and reduce congestion for commuters. This is also a change that could be implemented quickly and have a real impact on people’s lives, unlike the government’s proposed highway 413, which is an environmental disaster, would take 10 years and $6 billion to build, and according to new traffic studies, is not necessary. Every day it becomes more clear that this highway is a favour to Ford’s developer buddies, but this government keeps pushing it as the ultimate solution.
Truck drivers spend long, grueling hours on the road. It’s tiring and stressful to be behind the wheel for so many hours, let alone stuck in traffic. Meanwhile, Highway 407 remains underused because of some of the highest tolls in North America.
This motion was about saving Ontarians time and money, so they spend less time stuck in traffic and get home faster. This solution is a win-win, and it simply makes sense. It is unfortunate that the Conservatives didn’t see it that way.
150 Days of War on Gaza |
On Tuesday, I rose in the house to mark the 150th day of the war on Gaza. I asked Ontarians to reach out to their MP and urge them to support the NDP motion calling for an end to the war on Gaza and the release of all hostages. This motion is scheduled to be debated in the House of Commons on March 18. You can reach out to the Toronto Centre MP, Minister Marci Ien here, or find your MP here.
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles and my caucus members also wrote a letter to the Prime Minister asking him and all MPs to support the motion and work swiftly to bring peace, security, and aid to the region. You can read the letter here:
Local Community News |
St Lawrence Centre for the Arts Transformation |
You’re invited to view the future of the transformed St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts!
The design team of Hariri Pontarini Architects and LMN Architects with Smoke Architecture and Tawaw Architecture Collective will present their inspired design concepts for STLC to become a multi-faceted performing arts destination. This bold reimagining includes two state-of-the-art performance halls along with creative spaces and studios, rehearsal rooms, and informal gathering areas. The team will demonstrate how the building extends an open embrace to the city to create an energized arts corridor and a new pulsing heart in downtown Toronto.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback. For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to join us via livestream at stlcnext.org. The livestream link will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the meeting on March 26.
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
6 pm – 8 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm)
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Jane Mallett Theatre, 27 Front St. E.
Cabbagetown Cares Fundraiser
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Announcing the Cabbagetown Cares Fundraiser! From March 1 to March 30, 2024, The Cabbagetown BIA is teaming up with Dixon Hall and Saint Luke's United Church to support our neighbours.
As food insecurity continues to rise in Cabbagetown, St James Town, and Regent Park, it's more important than ever to lend a helping hand. That's where YOU come in!
Simply shop at any of the 14 participating businesses throughout March, where a portion of proceeds from select items will be donated to the fundraiser. All donated proceeds will be split between the Dixon Hall and St Luke's Church meals programs. It's that easy!
Click here for the full list of business offers.
Cabbagetown Festival 2024 Vendor Registration |
The Cabbagetown Festival is one of Toronto’s longest-running and most beloved street festivals, and this year it will be returning, bigger than ever!
They are inviting over 75,000 locals and visitors across the GTA to enjoy a family-friendly, entertainment-packed weekend, including live music performances, fantastic food, Kid’s Zone, and over 200 unique vendors from Cabbagetown and beyond!
The Cabbagetown Festival is celebrating its 45th year - After returning with a bang last year, The Festival is primed to become one of the most-anticipated events in Toronto! Starting at $230 for the lowest vendor level for two days, they invite business owners to apply to join them as a vendor as we celebrate this milestone.
Dates: September 7 and 8
Location: Parliament Street and Carlton Street, Cabbagetown, Toronto
Apply and pay by May 31 to take advantage of this early-bird pricing! Prices go up June 1, as long as space remains available! CabbagetownTO.com @CabbagetownBIA
Exhibit Opening: Blueprint |
BLUEPRINT asks: “Who gets to be beautiful?”
This exhibit runs March 2-31, 2024 at 420 Queen Street East
BLUEPRINT is a collection of mixed media collages created by Zandra Jack, a Toronto-based digital artist who works under the pseudonym, UNKWNZJ.
With a passion for altering geometric and curvilinear forms, UNKWNZJ’s work is a unique departure from more traditional modes of portraiture that lean on being as naturalistic to the human form as possible. Her subjects often don enlarged facial features and intensely darkened skin, aspects that she further amplifies with her use of bold color and intricate patterns. UNKWNZJ’s distinct creations exist as a disruption to the prevailing standards of beauty. BLUEPRINT challenges the status quo by paying homage to the unconventional; the features of black beauty that are undervalued yet paradoxically commodified in society.
We would also like to extend a warm invite to audiences to take part in an in-person, interactive workshop that will be led by UNKWNZJ:
When: Saturday March 16, 12-4 PM
Where: 420 Queen Street East
Through hands-on activities and guided instruction, participants will create mixed media artworks by experimenting with various materials and collaging techniques to bring forth their own artistic visions. This event is free of charge, but space is limited. Please RSVP here.
FoSTRA Housing For All Webinar |
FoSTRA (Federation of South Toronto Residents Associations) warmly invites you to the next in a series of free educational events on the theme of Housing for All, which will be held: Thursday, 21 March 2024, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM
Franz Hartmann, Coordinator for the Alliance for a Liveable Ontario, presents “A Blueprint for Solving the Housing Crisis in Ontario.”
Check out more details below and in the attachment. Click here to register to attend and ask a question of Franz Hartmann before the webinar.
Regent Park Cafe is Officially Open! |
After the Regent Park Cafe launch, they are now open and operational every Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 8 PM. If you are near Daniels Spectrum at 585 Dundas St. East, pop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Change Make-Her Program |
GOOD TO BE GOOD is pleased to announce a fifth cohort for the Change Make-Her program! This FREE interactive virtual program is for women and gender-diverse folks* interested in developing their entrepreneurship and leadership skills through mentorship-based training workshops, community building, peer support, resource-sharing, and other opportunities.
The program is a unique development opportunity explicitly created to extend the capacity of new and early entrepreneurs through a low-barrier, inclusive, and compassionate approach. Entrepreneurship is challenging to navigate—layering being a woman or gender-diverse with intersecting identities adds another path to navigate. We believe that entrepreneurism can be a meaningful pathway to confidence, community, and independence for women and gender-diverse people facing multiple barriers.
Each session provides participants with the fundamentals of growing a micro or small business in the mainstream economy on their terms while connecting them with other entrepreneurs and industry professionals in the community and accessible tools. We support participants by offering them several resources, wraparound supports (technology, internet, stress devices), and peer support. Successful participants will receive a micro-grant (up to $300) for their business needs. The seven-week program focuses on subjects related to entrepreneurship and leadership, such as essential business finance, business planning, community building, and marketing. All workshops are led by trained facilitators and Rochelle Ford-Wilson in a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive environment. Our guest mentors and speakers include Maggie Aurocco from bluboho, Nadege from IG Wealth Management, Chantaie from Ramsay & Co, Zehra Allibhai, and Opal Rowe from Stush Patties.
Participants must be available every Saturday morning (Eastern time) between April 6, 2024- May 25, 2024. Participants welcomed to join the cohort are asked to fill out a pre-survey before the program begins to gauge interests, needs, and goals. Participants will have the opportunity to meet for an orientation call prior to the first workshop.
Applications are now OPEN for the Change Make-Her program! The poster is attached to this email—please share and spread the word. To register, email Arezoo Najibzadeh at [email protected] or sign up by using this link: https://forms.gle/LuPLtsiWVDL5618u6. Please note that applications close Sunday, March 17.
Dear Neighbour, Last night, my Private Member’s Bill, the Gender Affirming Healthcare Act, was called up for second reading and we had the opportunity to debate the Bill. The vote on whether the Bill would pass second reading and go to committee will take place this upcoming Monday directly after Question Period. The Ford government has not indicated any support yet so the Bill is not guaranteed to pass. This weekend, we're urging all of our supporters to call and email Doug Ford to pass Bill 42. Let him know that we need his government to deliver equal access to health care for gender-diverse Ontarians. You can call Ford at (416)-325-7635 or email him at [email protected].
We had an incredible turnout of supporters for the debate, including Trans trailblazers who have been working towards more equitable care for Trans folks for decades, parents of Trans kids, healthcare providers, labour leaders, and community members from all over Ontario. Thank you to everyone who came out! You can watch the full debate below: You can also watch our two press conferences here, where incredible leaders shared their stories and reasons for supporting the Bill, including OPSEU President JP Hornick, CUPE Ontario leader Susan Gapka, OECTA Member, Catholic teacher and parent of a Trans child, Abby-Rose Follon: On Thursday night, I also hosted a Community Assembly on Gender Affirming Care, where I was joined by Cheri Di Novo, Bilal Baig, Sil Hernando, Jordan Zaitzow, and a room full of community members. The conversation was incredible. We really got to the heart of what gender affirming care is — providing support and tools to patients to live their lives fully as themselves. That looks different for everyone and we need flexible, accessible healthcare options to meet the needs of our diverse community.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam MPP, Toronto Centre
Black History Month Ford Tips the Scale of the Justice System NDP Delivers Pharmacare for Canadians Federal NDP Motion on Palestine KWT in Community Upcoming Local Community Events
Yesterday I was honoured to rise in the Legislature on behalf of my caucus to deliver Black History Month remarks. Black Ontarians have given so much to this province, and we must recognize their contributions and the inequities they face all year long. It was wonderful to be able to give special shoutouts to the communities of Regent Park and Little Jamaica, as well as Black business owners, healthcare workers, and local activists, who I am lucky enough to call my friends. Today also marks the start of Black Mental Health Week. The City of Toronto is hosting a variety of events that you can get involved with here.
Despite being mired in never-ending scandals, Ford’s Conservatives chose to appoint two former senior staff from the Premier’s office to the Justice Appointments Advisory Committee (JAAC, raising serious concerns about the impartiality of the judicial appointment process. But the Premier made it very clear that his government has no shame in making partisan appointments to these roles. Under this government, we have seen our court system spiral into chaos. We have seen serious cases get thrown out because of double-bookings and lack of resources, and survivors forced to re-live their trauma because of repeated delays. Instead of fixing the mess in our courts, the Attorney General is focused on using their majority to award partisan patronage appointments and erode people’s faith in our justice system. Yesterday, I asked the Premier why he thought appointing a registered gun lobbyist to the JAAC would keep our communities safer. Conservatives appointing more donors and lobbyists won't fix anything. Under his watch, Ford has underfunded the courts for 6 years. He has no plan to fix the court backlog or make Ontario safer. Add your name to fix our courts.
Just yesterday, the Federal NDP tabled legislation, supported by the Liberal Government, that will deliver universal, single-payer pharmacare to Canadians. It will begin by covering prescription contraceptives and diabetes medications and expand from there. This will be life-changing for so many Canadians. I am incredibly proud of this work. A national pharmacare program for Canadians was one of the federal NDP’s key demands going into the confidence-and-supply agreement with the federal Liberals. It establishes a process by which Canadians can access essential medication and devices through single payer coverage. But the plan’s success is contingent on whether Ontario signs on. Canada is the only country in the world with a universal public health care system that does not have universal coverage for prescription drugs outside of hospitals. People shouldn’t have to choose between essential diabetes medication, contraceptives and food. It's pretty simple: universal healthcare must include pharmacare. That was always the intention, since it was first introduced by Tommy Douglas. Now, thanks to the NDP, Canadians who are struggling with the cost of prescriptions can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The question is whether the Premier will commit and stand up for Ontarians. I know that the rest of the Ontario NDP team and I will be relentless in our pressure to deliver pharmacare, a core Ontario NDP policy during the last two elections.
Since October 7, at least 30,228 people have been killed and 71,377 wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza. The revised death toll in Israel from the October 7 attacks stands at 1,139.
I am incredibly proud of the strong and principled stance that the NDP has taken in their motion to combat the humanitarian crisis we are seeing unfold in Gaza and across the region. You can read the full text of the motion here, but the highlights are that the motion calls on the government to:
The motion will be debated, and a vote will be held on March 18. In the meantime, I encourage everyone to reach out to their Federal MPs and request that they support the motion.
Congratulations to the Chinese Workers Network on hosting another wonderfully successful Lunar New Year celebration. Deep gratitude for all the hard work they do to uplift the community all year round! Congratulations to the Yonge Street Mission Evergreen Centre on the opening of their Health and Dental Clinic! For years, the YSM Evergreen has been a safe space for youth to drop by for medical care, food, employment, and housing assistance as well as supplementary social programs.Last Friday, I had a chance to stop by one of my favourite local bakeries, Whiskful Thinking Bakery at 72 Wellesley St. E for some freshly baked scones and other goodies. Thank you to their lovely staff for their warm welcome! At the Grand Re-opening of the newly renovated Foy House Mansion on 92 Isabella St., I was honoured to attend their Black History Month exhibit where they featured the photographic art of Max Lamour as part of their mansion tour. From March onwards, this historic mansion will be available to host events for the community - be sure to check out this lovely space! Last week, I had a meeting with the Anglican Diocese of Toronto and met with Executive Director, Mary Lynne Stewart, Volunteer Resources Consultant, Elizabeth McCaffrey and Faithworks Campaign Manager, Peter Mentis. It was a pleasure to learn more about Faithworks and their incredible community support programs and services.
Birth Mark is a wonderful local maternal and family health provider, offering free-of-charge, full-spectrum reproductive doula care and complementary perinatal support services. They also partner with food security programs, shelters, hospitals, and more to help all pregnant people and parents. You can see a full list of their programs by going to their website. Unfortunately, Birth Mark has encountered severe funding challenges and has been forced to end some of their programming. As it operates as a charity, Birth Mark relies on donors' generosity to offer its services. Their main donor is redirecting its funds, jeopardizing the future of Birth Mark. Without this funding, thousands of patients have lost or will lose the care they need. If you are able, please donate, volunteer, and share their information with your circles.
Beginning at OISE at 252 Bloor St West, the International Women’s Day Rally & March will be on Saturday, March 2 at 11 AM. March for a gender-equal world! A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Impact Jam for community leaders to discuss how to improve their existing tools to better serve the needs within the Regent Park community. Make a difference by helping to shape the future of YSM’s community development strategy and claim your spot by emailing [email protected]. Please RSVP as soon as you can ensure that you can attend on March 6 from 5 PM to 8 PM at YSM’s Martin Centre at 306 Gerrard St. East.
After the Regent Park Cafe launch, they are now open and operational every Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 8 PM. If you are near Daniels Spectrum at 585 Dundas St. East, pop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
GOOD TO BE GOOD is pleased to announce a fifth cohort for the Change Make-Her program! This FREE interactive virtual program is for women and gender-diverse folks* interested in developing their entrepreneurship and leadership skills through mentorship-based training workshops, community building, peer support, resource-sharing, and other opportunities. Applications are now OPEN for the Change Make-Her program! The poster is attached to this email—please share and spread the word. To register, email Arezoo Najibzadeh at [email protected] or sign up by using this link: https://forms.gle/LuPLtsiWVDL5618u6. Please note that applications close Sunday, March 17.
On Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. via Zoom, join Trustee Debbie King, Trustee Alexis Dawson, and Trustee Deborah Williams for a special virtual joint ward forum. It can be challenging to sort fact from fiction online, and an increase in hate speech, alongside ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools, have made it even harder. This virtual workshop, led by CIVIX and TDSB staff, is designed to help parents and caregivers learn simple skills for spotting misinformation in the context of social media platforms and AI. All parents, guardians, caregivers, students, staff, and members of school communities in Parkdale-High Park, Davenport, Spadina - Fort York, University - Rosedale and Toronto Centre are welcome to attend. REGISTER HERE to confirm your interest in participating via Zoom |
Dear Neighbour,
The legislature resumed this week, and your Ontario NDP team hit the ground running, holding Doug Ford’s PCs to account and presenting solutions to make life better. My colleagues and I are focusing on offering solutions around housing, healthcare, and cost of living. I spent two days this week in Justice Policy Committee hearings, listening to stakeholders present tangible solutions that would improve access to justice and efficiencies in our courts.
I look forward to putting forward amendments to the government’s Bill 157 next week that would put many of these ideas into action, including increasing funding to legal aid clinics and victim compensation.
I am already looking forward to next week, when I will present my Bill, The Gender Affirming Healthcare Act, for second reading on Thursday, February 29, 2024. If you would like to attend the debate in person, you can RSVP here. It will also be streamed live on my Facebook page.
The day before, on Wednesday 28, 2024, I will be hosting a Community Assembly on Gender Affirming Care alongside some very special guests!
The Gender Affirming Healthcare Act is being brought forward at a time when social conservatives are using the rights and care of Trans people to start a culture war. Danielle Smith, Pierre Poilievre, and countless US lawmakers are announcing policies that take away the rights of Trans youth to be their authentic selves. These policies are founded on transphobia, hatred, and a fundamental disregard for science. Study after study concludes the same thing: trans folks' mental health improves when healthcare and social support honours their gender — the regret rates for gender-affirming surgeries are about 1%, dramatically lower than those for common surgeries like knee replacements.
Tragically, this anti-Trans rhetoric has serious consequences. CSIS just published a warning that the 'anti-gender movement' poses a threat of 'extreme violence.’ And we are already seeing that violence – many of you have probably heard about the heartbreaking death of Nex Benedict, an Indigenous, nonbinary teenager in Oklahoma who was beaten by peers in a school bathroom after the state passed a law saying that students must use the bathroom that aligns with the gender assigned to them at birth. Throughout next week, I will keep Nex’s memory in my heart as a reminder of what we are fighting for.
Yours in community service,
Warmly,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In this newsletter |
Killer of London Family Sentenced |
This week, my heart has been with the extended Afzaal family, their loved ones, and the wider Muslim community of London and beyond. Yesterday, the sentencing for Nathaniel Veltman was held — which found that his actions constituted “terrorist activity.” Veltman was earlier found guilty of the horrific murder of the Afzaal family in 2021.
Naming Veltman’s actions as terrorist activity is not only clearly true, but a landmark decision. This is the first time in Canada that an action motivated by white nationalism and white supremacy has been declared to be terrorism by a judge.
Since 2021, London’s Muslim community, friends and family of the Afzaal family, and our broader community have been mourning the senseless loss of life of Our London Family. This hateful act has sent shockwaves across our province.
Over the past few months, we heard heart-wrenching testimonies from family members, friends, and the young, sole survivor of the attack — who lost his entire family in the blink of an eye.
Yesterday’s sentencing verdict is a step towards justice for our communities, the Afzaal family, and their loved ones. Nothing will ever make up for this immense loss and the irreparable hurt to our community. But accountability is vital for a future in Ontario where vicious hate like this has no place.
Petition — Restore funding to UNWRA |
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be horrific, as even the most basic aid is restricted from entering Rafah. This is unacceptable.
I am continuing to echo the words of my Federal colleague NDP MP Heather McPherson as she calls the Canadian government to restore funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNWRA) and answer calls for an arms embargo on Israel. UNWRA is the leading provider of essential supplies to keep Palestinians alive in the Gaza Strip. Cuts to their funding are a death sentence to millions of displaced Palestinians. The NDP supports an investigation into the 12 UNWRA staff accused of involvement in the horrific violence of October 7, 2023. However, UNWRA is a massive agency employing over 30,000 people — defunding UNWRA constitutes collective punishment. You can sign NDP MP McPherson’s petition to restore Canada’s funding to UNWRA here.
I am horrified and enraged by the news that the Netanyahu war cabinet has set a hostage release deadline coinciding with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. If the deadline passes, the Netanyahu war cabinet says that they will begin a ground offensive on Rafah. Every ground offensive thus far has disproportionately affected innocent civilians, especially children. Given how densely Rafah is populated with Palestinians fleeing violence, I can’t imagine that this time could be any different. The hostages held by Hamas must be released. Punishing and killing innocent civilians will put the hostages in harm's way.
A ground offensive on Rafah would be unacceptable at any time. Still, the timing of this with a month of prayer and reflection seems uniquely designed to further break the spirits of Palestinians and take place when Muslims around the world are busy with family obligations, faith practices, and community events.
Public pressure on our government is working. Canada finally signed on to international statements supporting a ceasefire because of the public pressure Trudeau Liberals are facing. I encourage you to continue signing petitions and reaching out to your federal representatives to enact an arms embargo, restore funding for UNWRA, and press all elected officials to let Gaza live.
Addictions Crisis Grows in Ontario |
In Toronto Centre, we are no strangers to the consequences of the opioid epidemic and the poisoned drug supply crisis. Many of us feel the strain of these crises in our communities, our hospitals, and our own families.
The crisis is worsening across Ontario and I am so proud of my fellow NDP MPPs for speaking up for their communities and beyond who are crying out for help to save lives. On February 8, the Mayor of Belleville declared a local state of emergency after EMS responded to 17 drug overdoses in just over 24 hours.
This past Wednesday, MPP Lisa Gretzky, our critic for Mental Health and Addictions, called for urgent support in Belleville after the province ignored the mayor’s request for addictions support in the wake of a local emergency.
“In the wake of a devastating series of overdoses, the Mayor of Belleville reached out to this government for urgent support to help prevent any further tragedies,” said Gretzky. “He asked for simple, meaningful solutions to ensure this never happens again. Incredibly, his calls were ignored by this government.”
On Tuesday, the Mayor of Belleville said that if the Province won’t help, they’ll have to find another way to open a community hub to help people. Why is the Premier leaving the people of Belleville to deal with this crisis themselves, when solutions have been presented clearly to his government?
I am joining my colleagues in calling on the Conservatives to immediately provide funding for this desperately needed service hub and detox centre and commit to reliable, ongoing support to address the addictions and mental health crisis. There’s no time to waste. We owe it to the people of Belleville and every municipality in Ontario to have their backs. Lives depend on it.
Dental Care Day of Action |
Join the Toronto Centre NDP for a Day of Action to talk to neighbours about how Jagmeet Singh and our NDP team in Ottawa is delivering dental care for Canadians.
When: Sunday, March 3, 2-5 PM
Where: David Crombie Park (Sherborne & the Esplanade, Southwest Corner)
No prior canvassing experience is required, and training will be provided for first-time canvassers.
We'll meet at David Crombie Park (Sherborne St & the Esplanade, on the Southwest corner) and then canvass in the surrounding area.
Be sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable footwear. See you soon!
Community Events & Info |
Strengthening Our Roots Youth & Community Mixer |
Stop by Daniels Spectrum tomorrow at 585 Dundas St. East for a Black History Month Youth & Community Mixer! The event is open from 12 PM to 5 PM to all who want to come! There will be food, performances, and other fun activities to honour Black Canadians and their legacy.
If you would like to volunteer, please contact [email protected] for more details.
TNG Repair Café
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The Neighbourhood Group and the St. James Town Community Centre are coming together for a Repair Cafe. You can learn how to fix computers, clothing, bikes, and more! Attend for free on February 24 from 12 PM to 4 PM at the Central Neighbourhood House.
They are also looking for handy volunteers with experience fixing items. Find out more here!
St. James Town Black History Month Celebration |
St. James Town Black History Month Celebration is happening next week on Wednesday, February 28, at the Wellesley Community Centre on the second floor, from 4 PM to 7 PM.
There will be Raffle prizes, food prepared by a local vendor, Alex the Chef, and performances by Black Canadian artists.
International Women’s Day 2024 Rally and March |
Beginning at OISE at 252 Bloor St West, the International Women’s Day Rally & March will be on Saturday, March 2 at 11 AM.
March for a gender-equal world! A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
Yonge Street Mission Community Impact Jam |
Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Impact Jam for community leaders to discuss how to improve their existing tools to better serve the needs within the Regent Park community. Make a difference by helping to shape the future of YSM’s community development strategy and claim your spot by emailing [email protected].
Please RSVP as soon as you can ensure that you can attend on March 6 from 5 PM to 8 PM at YSM’s Martin Centre at 306 Gerrard St. East.
Regent Park Cafe is Officially Open! |
After the Regent Park Cafe launch, they are now open and operational every Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 8 PM. If you are near Daniels Spectrum at 585 Dundas St. East, pop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Change Make-Her Program |
GOOD TO BE GOOD is pleased to announce a fifth cohort for the Change Make-Her program! This FREE interactive virtual program is for women and gender-diverse folks* interested in developing their entrepreneurship and leadership skills through mentorship-based training workshops, community building, peer support, resource-sharing, and other opportunities.
The program is a unique development opportunity explicitly created to extend the capacity of new and early entrepreneurs through a low-barrier, inclusive, and compassionate approach. Entrepreneurship is challenging to navigate—layering being a woman or gender-diverse with intersecting identities adds another path to navigate. We believe that entrepreneurism can be a meaningful pathway to confidence, community, and independence for women and gender-diverse people facing multiple barriers.
Each session provides participants with the fundamentals of growing a micro or small business in the mainstream economy on their terms while connecting them with other entrepreneurs and industry professionals in the community and accessible tools. We support participants by offering them several resources, wraparound supports (technology, internet, stress devices), and peer support. Successful participants will receive a micro-grant (up to $300) for their business needs. The seven-week program focuses on subjects related to entrepreneurship and leadership, such as essential business finance, business planning, community building, and marketing. All workshops are led by trained facilitators and Rochelle Ford-Wilson in a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive environment. Our guest mentors and speakers include Maggie Aurocco from bluboho, Nadege from IG Wealth Management, Chantaie from Ramsay & Co, Zehra Allibhai, and Opal Rowe from Stush Patties.
Participants must be available every Saturday morning (Eastern time) between April 6, 2024- May 25, 2024. Participants welcomed to join the cohort are asked to fill out a pre-survey before the program begins to gauge interests, needs, and goals. Participants will have the opportunity to meet for an orientation call prior to the first workshop.
Applications are now OPEN for the Change Make-Her program! The poster is attached to this email—please share and spread the word. To register, email Arezoo Najibzadeh at [email protected] or sign up by using this link: https://forms.gle/LuPLtsiWVDL5618u6. Please note that applications close Sunday, March 17.
Dear Neighbour,
Please consider this your formal invitation to my Community Assembly on Gender Affirming Health Care!
We will be gathering on Wednesday, February 28, starting at 6 PM, at Trinity St Paul’s United Church on Bloor Street for an energizing community conversation.
The evening will be hosted by me and queer advocate Rev. Dr. Cheri DiNovo, who is the force behind many of the robust 2SLGBTQIA+ protections we have in Ontario today.
Joining us on the panel will be Bilal Baig, the creator of Sort Of on CBC, Monica Forrester from Trans Pride Toronto, Sil Hernando of Rainbow Health Ontario, and Jordan Zaitzow from Trans PULSE Canada.
Our panelists will discuss the state of gender affirming care in Ontario, how it can be improved, and how trans folks and allies can use their stories and voices to make change in their communities.
I hope that you'll be able to attend. Please share this invite with your communities, and let's pack the house!
Additionally, I want to wish you and all of your loved ones a wonderful and love-filled chosen family day. Family has meant more to me than ever this year. I hope you are able to spend time with your family and loved ones today.
Warmly,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In this newsletter |
Action to Save Lives in Gaza |
Like so many in our community, I am horrified by reports that the Netanyahu war cabinet plans on attacking Rafah – a town in the Southernmost part of the Gaza Strip.
As the Executive Director of Medicins Sans Frontiers (MSF), Avril Benoît, has said: “Rafah is the end of the line. There is nowhere else to flee. Even if displaced people return north, they will find no homes to go back to, and no supply lines to bring in food, water, medicines, or any other essentials. The consequences of a full-scale assault on Rafah are truly unimaginable. We cannot stand by and wait for this to unfold. A ceasefire in Gaza has never been more urgent.”
MSF made a powerful video documenting the flow of people into Rafah since the violence escalated after October 7, 2023. I encourage everyone to watch it.
Simply: attacking Rafah – the civilian centre that Netanyahu’s forces ordered civilians to flee to – would contradict the International Court of Justice's measures requiring Netanyahu's government to prevent acts of genocide. This assault must not happen. It will not help living hostages return home or lay the groundwork for future peace. This must stop.
NDP Foreign Affairs Critic MP Heather McPherson has a petition with Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East that I encourage everyone to sign calling for an arms embargo on Israel.
I want to share MP Heather McPherson’s Statement as she fights for the Liberal government to release documents on Canada’s arms exports to Israel:
“The Minister has an obligation under the Arms Trade Treaty not to approve export permits for military goods and technology where there is a substantial risk of human rights abuses. It is astonishing that Canada isn’t working to prevent genocide in Gaza – but may be complicit in serious crimes because of its ongoing arms sales.”
Chosen Family Day |
I want to recognize another Day of Significance. In three days, on Feb 22, Chosen Family Day recognizes all of the Ontarians who have created families outside of traditional legal definitions, providing love, support, and care for each other.
Chosen families are particularly common within 2SLGBTQIA+ communities since Queer and Trans folks have historically experienced high rates of separation and lack of acceptance from their families of origin. But these families were not only forged out of tragedy and necessity. They have also been forged out of joy, love, and a shared commitment to take care of each other through the seasons of life. Often Queer and Trans folks don’t have relatives in their families of origin who are like them, so they turn to elders in their wider community for support and guidance. Drag families are another fabulous expression of chosen family.
However, chosen families are not exclusive to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. People of many cultures and backgrounds create chosen families. Veterans, survivors of childhood abuse and immigrant communities often come together over shared backgrounds to provide support and understanding when families of origin are unsafe, far away, or simply don’t understand.
Chosen families, just like many families of origin, are vital and life-affirming. They make people feel seen, loved, and cared for in good times and in bad. Chosen families are true families.
The Ontario NDP is proud to champion Chosen Family Day and work towards it becoming officially recognized as a day of significance in Ontario.
Ontario Legislature Resumes Tuesday |
Next Tuesday, February 20, the Ontario Legislature resumes. I am excited to return and present real solutions to the housing, health care, and cost of living crises while holding Ford’s Conservatives accountable. I always want to hear your feedback and ideas. You can reach me at [email protected]
People across our province are facing real challenges right now. They are waiting hours for basic healthcare, are stuck with sky-rocketing housing costs, and their bills are not getting any lower. I know these are your priorities.
But this government is too wrapped up in its never-ending scandals to develop real solutions that matter to Ontarians.
We've taken on a corrupt Conservative government and forced them to reverse course on countless bad decisions. Now, they’re under a criminal investigation for selling off the Greenbelt to the highest bidder and were forced to walk back wage-suppression policies after losing twice in court. Every climbdown and policy reversal is proof that when we work together, we can win.
I will champion real solutions in the legislature, from targeting the staffing shortage in hospitals and underused public hospital resources, to expediting housing—including deeply affordable housing.
Bill 124 Ruled Unconstitutional by Appeals Court |
Last Tuesday, Ontario’s Court of Appeal ruled that Bill 124, the PC’s wage suppression legislation, was unconstitutional. The decision concluded that the Bill unduly interfered with workers’ rights to collective bargaining.
This is a huge win, a win that belongs to the workers, unions, and advocates from across the province who stood firm against the Conservatives’ unconstitutional attack on their rights.
Bill 124 hurt our province. It forced health care and education workers out of the profession, cut people’s wages during an affordability crisis, and eroded people’s trust in their government.
It is unconscionable that this government wasted many years and untold taxpayer dollars fighting workers in court to uphold an unconstitutional Bill and take away wages. Thankfully, the government has stated that they will not challenge this ruling at the Supreme Court and will repeal it in full. But that is not enough.
This government has to make up for lost time and wasted energy and start fixing their mess by hiring health care workers into our public system and paying back workers for lost wages.
I am proud to always stand with workers and I celebrate this win alongside them.
Mourning Alexey Navalny |
Like so many people across Canada and the world, I am mourning the recently reported murder of Alexey Navalny by the Putin regime. Alexey Navalny’s life defied the odds – he survived deadly poison, he stood up to and inspired millions of Russians to stand up to Putin, and he gave people in Russia and across the world hope that Russia could one day embark on a path unlike the totalitarian vision of Vladimir Putin. Putin is a murderous coward who is unfit to lead.
I am dismayed by Pierre Pollievre’s milquetoast statement on Navalny’s death. Everyone who believes in democracy should be outraged by what any reasonable observer knows was a Kremlin-orchestrated murder. Putin’s murder deserves nothing less than full-throated condemnation.
Navalny lived accepting that this could happen. In the documentary on his life, he was asked what his message to Russians would be if Putin has him killed: “If they decide to kill me, it means that we are incredibly strong. We need to utilize this power. To not give up. We are an incredible power that is being oppressed by these bad dudes. We don’t realize how strong we actually are. The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing. So don’t be inactive.”
Navalny was 47.
One way you can show your opposition to Navalny’s murderer is to join the Ukrainian Canadian Congress is organizing a rally at Nathan Phillips Square at 3pm on Saturday February 24, 2024. You can show solidarity with Ukraine and everyone resisting Putin on the second anniversary of Putin’s illegal invasion. I encourage everyone to join.
OneFare System coming to GTA in February |
Starting February 26, Ontario's One Fare Program will allow transit riders to pay only once when connecting to and from the TTC and GO Transit, Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay and York Region Transit.
This is an exciting development that will let people across the GTHA connect more affordably and encourage transit ridership. I am thrilled that this dream is now a reality - thank you to all of the community advocates who have been pushing for this for years!
How Ontario's One Fare Program works:
FREE Shingles Vaccine Extension |
Since 2020, Ontarians age 65-70 years old have been eligible for a FREE two-dose shingles vaccine from their family doctor.
Recently, the program was extended until the end of 2024! I encourage everyone who is eligible to receive the vaccine to speak with their family doctor or other healthcare provider. Shingles is a painful and often preventable disease with proper immunization.
If you do not qualify for the publicly funded Shingles vaccine, you can purchase it from a participating pharmacy with a prescription from your primary care provider. Some private insurers may cover all or part of the cost of the vaccine. You should check with your insurance company for more information on your coverage.
Faquiri Inquest Deadline Missed
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Last Friday marked 60 days since the Ontario government received the results of the Coroner’s Inquest into Soleiman Faqiri’s death in an Ontario jail in 2016. The inquest jury made 57 recommendations to the Ontario government that would prevent this tragedy from recurring.
The first of the 57 recommendations was to Develop and issue a public position statement within 60 days of this verdict, recognizing that correctional facilities are not an appropriate environment for persons in custody experiencing significant mental health issues.
The government failed to acknowledge the deadline, let alone issue a statement.
The Faqiri family is hurting. Their loved one was killed when he needed compassionate support. The least that this government could do to honour Soleiman Faqiri’s memory would be to implement the jury’s first recommendation on time and work towards a corrections system where people in mental health crisis receive support and treatment, not violence.
Despite multiple appeals, this government has not given any indication that they are attempting to meet the deadline for these recommendations. Their silence shows a pattern of failing to follow the advice of experts and Coroner's Inquest recommendations.
I will keep pushing for justice for the Faqiri family and everyone else living with mental health concerns in Ontario’s corrections system.
Birthmark — Call for Donations |
Birth Mark is a wonderful local maternal and family health provider, offering free-of-charge, full-spectrum reproductive doula care and complementary perinatal support services. They also partner with food security programs, shelters, hospitals, and more to help all pregnant people and parents. You can see a full list of their programs by going to their website.
Unfortunately, Birth Mark has encountered severe funding challenges and has been forced to end some of their programming.
As it operates as a charity, Birth Mark relies on donors' generosity to offer its services. Their main donor is redirecting its funds, jeopardizing the future of Birth Mark. Without this funding, thousands of patients have lost or will lose the care they need. If you are able, please donate, volunteer, and share their information with your circles.
St. Bartholomew’s Children’s Centre Needs a New Home
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St. Bartholomew’s Children’s Centre, located in Regent Park, is one of only 2 stand-alone licensed school-age daycares in Toronto. Their caring staff have been dedicated to serving the children of Regent Park for over four decades, providing before- and after-school programming and full-day care when school is not in session. They take pride in having nurtured and graduated over 1,000 students during this extensive period, including tailored support for children with higher needs.
Recently SBCC was served notice from their landlords (St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church) that they must vacate their home of 40 years to accommodate structural renovations to the foundation of the church. This work could take up to 30 months.
The staff of SBCC are currently working to find new space and are reaching out to the community for help. If you have any leads on a space for them please reach out to me!
Here are their requirements:
1. A total of 835 sq. ft. of unobstructed floor space
2. A separate area for: toileting, food preparation, retention of records, staff rest area, outdoor space
Community Events & Info |
Moss Park Quarterly Community Meeting
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Join Moss Park residents at their quarterly community meeting this Tuesday, February 20, at 6:15 PM. You’ll be able to meet your Moss Park Neighbourhood Community Officers (NCOs), receive updates on critical incidents, and ask questions.
Black History Month at CL&D
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The Centre for Learning and Development is hosting a Black History Month event on February 23 from 6 PM to 8 PM at 540 Dundas St. East. Learn more about Black history with their speaker, Jemmelia Morgan. Jemmelia is a seasoned Child & Family Therapist specializing in empowering racialized communities. She is a dedicated professional at SickKids CCMH, where she passionately champions mental health and safer communities.
Get your tickets here!
Rumours of a River
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Did you know there's a river buried under Church Street? The Church Wellesley Village BIA & Lost Rivers Toronto present Rumours of a River — a neighbourhood walking tour. This tour will start at 1:30 PM on Saturday, 17 February, at The ArQuives (34 Isabella Street). If you are interested in 2SLGBTQ histories and present-day stories, RSVP for the event here.
TNG Repair Café
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The Neighbourhood Group and the St. James Town Community Centre are coming together for a Repair Cafe. You can learn how to fix computers, clothing, bikes, and more! Attend for free on February 24 from 12 PM to 4 PM at the Central Neighbourhood House.
They are also looking for handy volunteers with experience fixing items. Find out more here!
2024 LunarFest |
Tomorrow, February 17, at 12 PM, LunarFest will begin at the Varley Art Gallery of Markham. To enjoy the Lunar New Year festivities and celebrate the Year of the Dragon, RSVP here.
Tenant Union Meet & Greet |
The Toronto Centre Tenant Union is having a meet and greet on Tuesday, February 20, from 6 PM to 7:30. Head to Glad Day Bookshop at 499 Church St. to chat with other tenants. And follow their great work on Instagram at to.centre.tenants!