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!
This week, Federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced that he would be implementing a cap on international students in Canada.
This move scapegoats international students and immigrants as a major driver of the housing crisis in Canada when it is clear that every level of government should be much more active in building public housing and that housing investors and developers are driving the crisis.
These regulations should not be made purely for press releases and sound bites. They should come from consultations with cities, provinces, and the people helping newcomers start their lives in Canada. These regulations should not be made for press releases. I absolutely hear that constituents are concerned that more people are arriving in Canada than we have homes being constructed. By implementing arbitrarily determined caps, the federal government is avoiding their duty to invest in building new homes for all Canadians.
International students at our public post-secondary institutions deserve quality education - they're some of our province's future nurses, construction workers, and teachers.
Post-secondary institutions in Ontario have been dramatically underfunded for years, especially by Ford’s PCs, who froze tuition and cut funding to public colleges and universities in 2019. Tuition must be affordable, but this government cut grants and free tuition for low-income students at the same time that they implemented the freeze. Per-student funding to institutions in 2021 was $8,647, compared to the national average of $12,215.
This dramatic underfunding has made our public colleges and universities over-reliant on unregulated and sky-high international fees to stay afloat and avoid bankruptcy. In 2022, Laurentian University declared insolvency, and Queen’s University recently began cuts to avoid the same. This is an unfair burden to place on international students and puts our educational institutions in precarious financial situations. A federal policy change around visas should not push our public colleges and universities close to bankruptcy.
The lack of regulation around international tuition fees has paved the way for private 'strip mall' career colleges, some of which exploit international students. Many private colleges rake in high profits while providing education of dubious quality, often virtually, as they don’t have classroom space to accommodate their thousands of students, sent to them by profit-driven recruiters around the world.
Our province must invest in our public colleges and universities and ensure these new visa measures focus on cutting visas granted to students entering private, for-profit colleges, not our public institutions.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In this newsletter |
Toronto Council: Fund What Matters Most |
On Friday, there will be a key vote about the City of Toronto's budget. So much is at stake.
You have seen me work tirelessly to get the funding for the services we need. I care so much about seeing this moment — a progressive Mayor's first budget — realized to its fullest potential.
This is that moment - join the call for City Hall to invest in what matters most.
We have a script that you can use to call our City Councillor and the Mayor's Office. You can see it here:
Greenbelt Corruption Runs Deep |
The Ontario NDP has revealed new evidence showing further involvement from the Premier’s Office in the Greenbelt scandal.
Emails obtained in response to a Freedom of Information request suggest a timeline that is ten days earlier than indicated in testimonies provided by Ryan Amato (former chief of staff to the former Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing) and Patrick Sackville (former principal secretary and current chief of staff to the Premier) under oath, and that the Premier’s office knew about the land swaps much earlier than they claimed. This new evidence shows that the two staffers exchanged emails detaining a “list of criteria for removals” of 7,400 acres of the Greenbelt and that they used their personal instead of government email addresses to communicate.
We are calling for the Premier to start being transparent with Ontarians about what really happened. This e-mail shows that the Premier’s office was far more involved in the Greenbelt land removals than Ford claimed. The Conservatives are trying desperately to make this scandal go away, but it is becoming increasingly clear that they cannot hide from their corruption.
With each new piece of evidence, we are seeing more cracks in the narrative that the Premier and his insiders have been trying to spin. But the truth is becoming clearer every day – Ford was not in the dark about his government’s corrupt Greenbelt decisions.
It’s time for the Conservatives to come clean about how they deceived Ontarians with this Greenbelt fiasco. If they don’t, I’m confident the RCMP will.
PCs Point Fingers during Pre-Budget Consultations |
Yesterday, the PC government held their Ottawa Pre-Budget consultation. My colleagues MPP Joel Harden and MPP Chandra Pasma attended and were saddened but not shocked by the stories they heard from people on ODSP and local community organizations. Years of government underfunding has left them depleted. They are running out of resources to support themselves and their communities with the most essential of services. People and organizations running on fumes and struggling to meet basic needs should not be where we are in Ontario. We are a prosperous province and should invest so that our communities can thrive and live full lives beyond basic survival.
I want to share the words of my colleague MPP Chandra Pasma:
“Throughout the last two days of consultations, every sector we heard from told us how people are struggling because of this government's choices. From families grappling with homelessness due to a lack of real rent control to the heart-wrenching stories of those on ODSP, the undeniable truth is that people simply cannot afford to live in this province. Instead of offering solutions, Conservative members today pointed fingers and blamed the city of Ottawa for provincial issues. These consultations are designed for solutions, not deflection. Ford could save the day today, but a lack of accountability and real investment has set this province decades behind."
But there is good news - solutions to these problems exist! We heard them in these very consultations. With the proper investments, we can end waitlists for mental health services, seniors support, disability programs, and affordable housing, as well as help our beleaguered hospitals and schools.
I am proud to be part of an Official Opposition team that continues to call for an immediate doubling of ODSP & OW – as a start – and for the Conservatives to prioritize public services instead of their pet projects. I will never stop pushing for these priorities at Queen’s Park.
OPSEU Workers win against Bill 124! |
Bill 124, the horrendous wage-limiting legislation introduced in 2019 by Ford’s PCs, was declared unconstitutional in 2022 by an Ontario court. The government is now appealing that decision. However, in the meantime, unions that included “reopener” clauses in collective agreements signed between 2019 and 2022 are renegotiating their compensation to receive the pay that they deserve, even if it comes years late.
This week, the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) won a major retroactive wage increase of 6.5% over two years, for their workers, whose wages have been unconstitutionally capped at 1% since the passing of Bill 124.
I am so proud of OPSEU members, union staff, and those at the bargaining table for securing this deal for workers. OPSEU president J.P. Hornick said it best: "This government may think that their majority means they hold all the power, but this win is proof that when we build worker power and solidarity, workers have the power to fight for what they deserve."
IMIRT App - report Islamophobia |
A new app, the Islamophobia-Motivated Incident Reporting Tool (IMIRT), has just been launched! We have seen a concerning rise in Islamophobia over the past year, and we know that folks who are victims of this hate often have understandable concerns about reporting hate-motivated crimes to police or other government institutions.
For this reason, the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, the National Council of Canadian Muslims, and the Dar Al-Tawheed Islamic Centre in Mississauga came together to create IMIRT. In this app, users can report incidents of hate. This data will be invaluable in determining trends and making safety plans within the community and in collaboration with government.
Thank you to everyone working to make our communities safer in the face of hate.
Save the Date for Trans Health Care: February 29, 2024 |
I recently submitted notice to the Clerk at Queen’s Park that I will call up the Gender Affirming Health Care Act for my first ballot date at Queen’s Park. This will be the Gender Affirming Health Care Act’s second reading. I will have more details for you soon — if you are interested in helping lobby the government and advocate for this bill, you can sign up here.
Community Events & Info |
Community Rally for the Ontario Science Centre |
Save Ontario's Science Centre, along with MPP Peter Tabuns, is holding a rally on Saturday, January 27, starting at 12 at Riverdale Park East!
Save OSC has been successful in bringing much needed attention to the ill-advised Ford plan to relocate the Ontario Science Centre to Ontario Place, but we can't let the message disappear while the govt is in recess!
The move to a half-size 'OSC LITE' would not only cost Ontario taxpayers $300-$400 million over the cost of refurbishment and well-paying jobs but also deprive a vulnerable neighbourhood of an important element of their community fabric.
Save OSC’s goal is to maintain a full-size, fully funded, interactive and immersive science experience for Ontarians at the iconic Raymond Moriyama-designed facility in Flemingdon Park.
Victim Service Award of Distinction |
The Victim Services Awards of Distinction deadline has been extended to January 29, 2024, at 11:59 pm!
Click here to nominate a local leader!
This awards program recognizes the leadership, expertise, and commitment of local volunteers, professionals, and organizations who dedicate their time to ensuring those who have experienced victimization can access critical support and services. It also honours those that have been personally impacted by crime and are now working to bring awareness to victims’ issues in Ontario.
City of Toronto Community Champion Awards |
The City of Toronto, in collaboration with United Way Greater Toronto, is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Toronto Community Champion Award 2024 program.
In March 2023, the City recognized 25 organizations from across Toronto at the inaugural award ceremony. Due to the resounding success of this program, Toronto City Council agreed to continue this exciting program as an annual initiative.
The Toronto Community Champion Award recognizes and acknowledges the extraordinary contributions that community organizations make to support the health and solidarity of the residents of the City of Toronto, particularly those from Black, Indigenous, and other equity-deserving communities.
We encourage you to share the Toronto Community Champion Award nomination form with your constituents and community partners. The website is now open for Toronto residents to nominate organizations known for their “community collaboration.” The deadline to nominate is Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 p.m. Recipients will be announced in May 2024 and honoured at an award ceremony.
For more information on the Toronto Community Champion Award, including criteria and eligibility, and to access the nomination form, please visit the program’s webpage.
If you have any questions, please let us know. In the meantime, we are grateful for your support in getting the word out to encourage nominations in your riding.
Jagmeet Singh at TMU |
Bring your questions for New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh, who returns to the Democracy Forum at TMU to discuss how his party applies pressure to the Liberal government through its supply and confidence agreement in a minority Parliament. From domestic to foreign issues, Singh’s left-leaning NDP has been at the centre of a political balancing act.
Sponsored by the Dais, this free event is open to all students and the general public, with advance registration required.
When: Friday, Feb 2, 1 PM - 2 PM
When: Toronto Metropolitan University Student Learning Centre, 341 Yonge St
On Monday, Marit Stiles and I joined business leaders in the historic St. Lawrence Market for a press conference to call on the Federal government to fix the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) program. Understanding that many small businesses, including those in Toronto Centre, are still struggling to get past significant COVID-related financial setbacks, I have personally written to and called on the Prime Minister to extend the deadline for the forgivable portion of the CEBA loan until the end of December this year. During the height of the pandemic, CEBA was a lifeline for small businesses. CEBA allowed small businesses to stay solvent, pay rent, and keep their staff employed. I watched with deep disappointment yesterday as CEBA’s repayment deadline passed, and the Prime Minister confirmed that he would not extend it. The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses' survey warns that this could worsen the crisis on main streets across the country. Their data reports that one-third, or approximately 100,000 businesses, will be forced to take out a bank loan at today’s high interest rates to make their loan payment, and a further 100,000 businesses (one-third of all surveyed) have no means to secure a loan at all. Maintaining a deadline that two-thirds of small businesses cannot meet is not an acceptable government policy when our country verges on a recession. Before becoming an elected official, I was a small business owner. I owned a coffee shop on Church Street and an art gallery in the Queen West neighbourhood. I know how tough it is to run a successful business at the best of times – and I never had to contend with a global health pandemic. It is beyond comprehension that the federal and provincial governments let this deadline pass, knowing that thousands of small business owners are now out in the cold and will have to lay off employees. Instead of supporting small businesses, Ford’s Conservatives are rewarding big retailers and their already wealthy CEOs at Shoppers, Staples, and Walmart. It’s shameful that Ford did not use his immense political voice to firmly and vocally call on the Prime Minister to demonstrably support small businesses with a repayment extension. He showed us once again that Conservatives are only interested in supporting their political donors and corporate friends with big bank accounts. An Ontario dominated by big box stores and empty main streets is not an Ontario that I want to live in. I will never stop fighting for the small businesses that make our communities unique and vibrant. Yours in community service, Kristyn
Kristyn Wong-Tam MPP, Toronto Centre
Every year around this time, the Ontario government hosts pre-budget consultations across the province. Government officials and MPPs travel to communities to hear from local governments, businesses, community organizations, and residents about their priorities and what they want to see in the budget. This practice is admirable and keeps our democracy strong. However, this year, the Conservative government decided not to hold any pre-budget consultations in Toronto. ZERO in our province’s largest city. This is unacceptable and a clear message that this government is afraid to face the consequences of their backroom deals that have so profoundly affected Torontonians. Yesterday, the Ontario NDP Caucus hosted our own pre-budget consultation for Toronto. We heard from housing, community, and environmental organizations about what they need from their government. It was an honour to listen to these groups’ stories and understand their needs. I am excited to bring their requests to this government in the upcoming Legislative session.
Ford is falling behind on his housing goals and failing to meet the targets that his own government set for themselves in 2023. This week, Global News revealed that the province is now even further behind in its goal of building 1.5 million homes by 2031. The Conservatives only continue to worsen the housing crisis by prioritizing backroom deals they are later forced to backtrack on when their corruption is revealed. If they were genuinely committed to building housing, they would be hitting their targets and focusing on building affordable housing in the places that people want to live.
This week, the West Don Lands Committee wrapped up their 26 years of devoted service to our developing waterfront communities. The committee has fostered and supported many vibrant neighbourhood associations in the waterfront communities that were created over the committee's lifetime, and they feel confident in passing on their work to these capable associations. I can’t wait to see how the committee's work lives on in this new iteration. I particularly want to thank co-chairs John Wilson and Cindy Wilkey, who guided the committee for so many years. Thank you for your leadership, friendship, advocacy, and love for our communities. The committee accomplished so much in its 26 years. Still, two personal highlights for me are their advocacy for the preservation and recognition of the First Parliament site and their work alongside the St Lawrence and Corktown communities to save the Foundry.
I recently submitted notice to the Clerk at Queen’s Park that I will call up the Gender Affirming Health Care Act for my first ballot date at Queen’s Park. This will be the Gender Affirming Health Care Act’s second reading. I will have more details for you soon — if you are interested in helping lobby the government and advocate for this bill, you can sign up here.
The Toronto Centre NDP is organizing a canvass to call on the Federal government to give Toronto a fair deal. On Sunday January 21, 2024, you can join Toronto Centre volunteers as we gather petitions for a day of action to talk to our neighbours about how we're calling on the federal government to support the City of Toronto. No prior canvassing experience is required, and training will be provided for first time canvassers. Be sure to dress warm and wear comfortable footwear!
The position of Associate Chair of the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) is vacant for the fifth time in five years. This role is effectively the chair of the tribunal and reports directly to the Chair of Tribunals Ontario. They are responsible for the recruitment and training of new members, management of the case load, development of procedural rules, as well as adjudicative and policy leadership. This is a critical job that requires expertise in human rights law, as well as management experience. This type of experience isn't just suggested, it is legislatively mandated in the Human Rights Code. However, appointments to the HRTO by the Ford government have rarely followed these requirements. This lack of experience in leadership positions has been compounded by the refusal of the government to reappoint many experienced human rights adjudicators (seemingly only because they had been appointed by the previous government). This lack of experience and high turnover has resulted in huge delays and many fewer hearings than was previously normal. In the past couple of years, the number of final merit decisions released by the HRTO has fallen by more than 50%. At the same time, the tribunal is dismissing an unprecedented number of applications at the early stages and an alarming increase in abandoned applications. Often applicants wait more than a year to move forward before abandoning their cases. I am joining Tribunal Watch Ontario in calling on the government and Tribunals Ontario to commit to a full and transparent recruitment and appointment process to fill the very important position of Associate Chair of the Human Rights Tribunal and to ensure that the process complies with the applicable legislation.
The St James Town Community Corner is seeking community ambassadors! Eligibility:
What is involved?
The last date for submissions is Wednesday, 24th January Contact [email protected] or visit us @ The Corner, 200 Wellesley St. E
Where: Central YMCA, 20 Grosvenor Street, Toronto, or virtually by Zoom When: Saturday January 20, 10 am – 4:30 pm & Sunday January 21, 9 am – 12:30 pm Note: this is a paid conference - tickets can be purchased here. The Ford government is trying to close and diminish our local public hospital services. They are privatizing and deregulating the health care workforce. They are privatizing our core hospital services, long-term care, home care, primary care, and public health. They are also building the infrastructure for private for-profit hospitals. Now, more than ever, we need fearless, strong, ambitious action to stop privatization and force the rebuilding of our public health care. Each year, the Ontario Health Coalition invites everyone who believes in Public Medicare and wants to defend and improve it to join together in a major strategy session. Join them for an important and fun weekend of briefings, speakers, report-ins, and strategizing on January 20 & 21.
The Victim Services Awards of Distinction deadline has been extended to January 29, 2024, at 11:59 pm! Click here to nominate a local leader! This awards program recognizes the leadership, expertise, and commitment of local volunteers, professionals, and organizations who dedicate their time to ensuring those who have experienced victimization can access critical support and services. It also honours those that have been personally impacted by crime and are now working to bring awareness to victims’ issues in Ontario.
The City of Toronto, in collaboration with United Way Greater Toronto, is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Toronto Community Champion Award 2024 program. In March 2023, the City recognized 25 organizations from across Toronto at the inaugural award ceremony. Due to the resounding success of this program, Toronto City Council agreed to continue this exciting program as an annual initiative. The Toronto Community Champion Award recognizes and acknowledges the extraordinary contributions that community organizations make to support the health and solidarity of the residents of the City of Toronto, particularly those from Black, Indigenous, and other equity-deserving communities. We encourage you to share the Toronto Community Champion Award nomination form with your constituents and community partners. The website is now open for Toronto residents to nominate organizations known for their “community collaboration.” The deadline to nominate is Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 p.m. Recipients will be announced in May 2024 and honoured at an award ceremony. For more information on the Toronto Community Champion Award, including criteria and eligibility, and to access the nomination form, please visit the program’s webpage. If you have any questions, please let us know. In the meantime, we are grateful for your support in getting the word out to encourage nominations in your riding.
Are you beginning to pave your career path? Do you have an interest in civics and current affairs? Are you actively involved in your community? Do you have aspirations to seek public office or want to know what it's like to be a political representative? The Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s Women’s Forum will bring together 124 young women and gender-diverse individuals from across Ontario for a full-day program in Toronto to promote active citizenship and public engagement through education and empowerment. One individual between the ages of 18-30 will be selected from each provincial riding to represent their community and experience parliament in action, meet prominent Ontario women and key parliamentary figures, and gain a behind-the-scenes perspective of Ontario’s Parliament. Applications are being accepted until TOMORROW, January 21, 2024.
The SLNA Waste Reduction Group is holding its 9th REmarket, a two-day event to collect unwanted items. A totally free market (FreeMarket) will also be held. Guests can donate and take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag. Repair Café Toronto will be fixing clothing, jewelry, computers, home electronics, small appliances, housewares, and toys, while CultureLink Bike Hub will be doing minor bike repairs and safety checks. Full event details and guidelines can be found here. Please email [email protected] with any questions.
Bring your questions for New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh, who returns to the Democracy Forum at TMU to discuss how his party applies pressure to the Liberal government through its supply and confidence agreement in a minority Parliament. From domestic to foreign issues, Singh’s left-leaning NDP has been at the centre of a political balancing act. Sponsored by the Dais, this free event is open to all students and the general public, with advance registration required. When: Friday, Feb 2, 1 PM - 2 PM |
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Dear Neighbour,
I write this newsletter thinking about health and how it connects every one of us.
My family entered 2024 with incredible news. My wife Farrah is free of her small-cell cervical cancer. She is the strongest person I know and after months of gruelling treatments, this was hardwon and deeply joyous news. Our family is not out of the woods yet with breast cancer treatments ahead — but thanks to medical advances, the remaining cancer is substantially less threatening.
I want to thank the Princess Margaret Hospital medical team, our family and friends, and everyone in our community who stopped us on the street to wish Farrah well. Everyone’s care, love, and prayers mattered. Thank you.
While my family is grateful for the years we have to look forward to, all Canadians are looking back on the years we had with Ed Broadbent, who passed away yesterday. Ed Broadbent led the NDP from 1975 to 1989. He fought for a just society and taught us that good government promotes unity and citizens who are creative and cooperative. These are lessons we need now more than ever.
We will miss you Ed.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In this newsletter |
Save the Date for Trans Health Care: February 29, 2024 |
I recently submitted notice to the Clerk at Queen’s Park that I will call up the Gender Affirming Health Care Act for my first ballot date at Queen’s Park. This will be the Gender Affirming Health Care Act’s second reading. I will have more details for you soon — if you are interested in helping lobby the government and advocate for this bill you can sign up here.
Pre-Budget Consultations |
Ontario's pre-budget consultations matter. Every year, the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs tours Ontario to let people and organizations tell MPPs directly what they need in Ontario's next budget.
Ford left Toronto out of Ontario's budget consultation process this year. This is not normal.
It's saying two things: first, that he wants to avoid hearing from those he disagrees with, and second, that his $1500+-a-plate fundraisers in Toronto are the only pre-budget consultations that Torontonians can expect. My NDP colleague Catherine Fife moved to include Toronto on the pre-budget consultation schedule — and Ford PCs voted 'no.'
To make up for Ford's lack of leadership, your Official Ontario NDP Opposition is organizing a budget consultation on Thursday January 18, 2024 at Queen's Park so that you can have your chance to tell the government what you want to see in our budget.
Earlier this week, I was in Oakville for a day of pre-budget hearings with MPP Catherine Fife. We heard a consistent message from organizations: Ontario must fund health care and social services. There is nothing left to cut after decades of chronic underfunding by Liberal and Conservative governments — barebone programs are cracking.
This message was re-affirmed by news this week that Toronto Schools are seeing some of the worst staffing shortages we have ever seen. I want to echo what NDP MPP Bhutila Karpoche said that this did not happen overnight. Our kids need the government to invest in programs to recruit, train, and retain education assistants and support workers.
Toronto's Budget Crisis |
While I am no longer a City Councillor, Toronto is still my city. I am sure many of you are wondering what my take is on how Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow announced this week what Toronto’s property tax increase might have to be if the Federal government doesn’t step up with funding for Toronto.
Funding cities primarily through property taxes is absurd. The Federal government must step up to the table with fair funding, or this property tax increase will be a Trudeau tax. In the long run, cities deserve real revenue tools, such as a share of HST revenue, to ensure that the city we love can love Torontonians back.
The Toronto Centre NDP is organizing a canvass to call on the Federal government to give Toronto a fair deal. On Sunday January 21, 2024, you can join Toronto Centre volunteers as we gather petitions for a day of action to talk to our neighbours about how we're calling on the federal government to support the City of Toronto. No prior canvassing experience is required, and training will be provided for first time canvassers. Be sure to dress warm and wear comfortable footwear!
Public Dollars to Renovate Staples? |
Media reports are confirming the Ford Conservatives will be footing the bill with taxpayer money to retrofit Staples locations with ServiceOntario outposts.
I want to echo the words of my NDP colleague Tom Rakocevic that "it’s looking like Ford's Conservatives handed a sole-sourced contract to a large American corporation, allowing them to profit off of delivering key government services.”
“Again, we’re seeing this government refuse to be transparent about their backroom deals. We’re seeing them hand over more of our government services to mega corporations, using taxpayer dollars to help a private company’s bottom line.”
A job posting on Staples’ website shows the company is looking to hire ServiceOntario workers with the goal of “monetization of ServiceOntario traffic” and delivering “sales and profit results related to ServiceOntario traffic.”
People are already waiting too long to access basic government services. Now, the Ford government is letting Staples profit off of Ontarians while they wait. The Premier needs to come clean about why he is giving an American company a sole-sourced deal and how that will help people in Ontario.
It is not lost on me that schools, many public housing units, and courts across Ontario are in disrepair, but only corporations are being offered funding to renovate their properties.
Community Events & Info |
City of Toronto Community Champion Awards |
The City of Toronto in collaboration with United Way Greater Toronto is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Toronto Community Champion Award 2024 program.
In March 2023, the City recognized 25 organizations from across Toronto at the inaugural award ceremony. Due to the resounding success of this program, Toronto City Council agreed to continue this exciting program as an annual initiative.
The Toronto Community Champion Award recognizes and acknowledges the extraordinary contributions that community organizations make to support the health and solidarity of the residents of the City of Toronto, particularly those from Black, Indigenous and other equity deserving communities.
We encourage you to share the nomination form for the Toronto Community Champion Award with your constituents and community partners. The website is now open for Toronto residents to nominate organizations known for their “community collaboration”. The deadline to nominate is Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 11:55 p.m. Recipients will be announced in May 2024 and will be honoured at an award ceremony.
For more information on the Toronto Community Champion Award, including criteria and eligibility, and to access the nomination form, please visit the program’s webpage.
If you have any questions, please let us know. In the meantime, we are grateful for your support in getting the word out to encourage nominations in your riding.
Invite an Amazing Young Woman in Your Life to a Remarkable Assembly! |
Are you beginning to pave your career path? Do you have an interest in civics and current affairs? Are you actively involved in your community? Do you have aspirations to seek public office or want to know what it's like to be a political representative? The Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s Women’s Forum will bring together 124 young women and gender diverse individuals from across Ontario for a full-day program in Toronto to promote active citizenship and public engagement though education and empowerment.
One individual between the ages of 18-30 will be selected from each provincial riding to represent their community and experience parliament in action, meet prominent Ontario women and key parliamentary figures, and gain a behind-the-scenes perspective of Ontario’s Parliament.
Applications are being accepted until January 21, 2024.
THE GREAT PAUSE |
You are invited to THE GREAT PAUSE. This FREE event is a musical archive of how the pandemic impacted the Community Music Schools of Toronto (CMST) students in Regent Park and Jane Finch, and the ways that they made meaning of this unusual time.
Featuring both solo and ensemble performances by CMST students and faculty, this 13-song snapshot of our school community is based directly on interviews with parents, students, teachers and members of the immediate neighbourhoods.
Join us as we explore both the challenges and the beauty of what our communities made of THE GREAT PAUSE of our lifetime.
Saturday Jan 20, 2024 from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Employment and Education Information Fair |
Learn about the education and employment opportunities available to you!
Speak to recruiters from universities and colleges in the GTA, and meet job developers who can help you find meaningful employment supports and career opportunities
January 19, 2024 from 1:00– 4:00 p.m.
Metro Hall, 55 John Street, Toronto
Rooms 308 & 309
St. Lawrence REmarket |
The SLNA Waste Reduction Group is holding its 9th REmarket, a two-day event for the collection of unwanted items.
A totally free market (FreeMarket) will also be held. Guests can donate and/or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
Repair Café Toronto will be fixing clothing, jewelry, computers, home electronics, small appliances, housewares, and toys, while CultureLink Bike Hub will be doing small bike repairs and safety checks.
Full event details and guidelines can be found at: www.slna.ca/remarket-guidelines
Please email [email protected] with any questions.
Yesterday, the corrupt Ford government unexpectedly adjourned the legislature for an extended winter break, effectively shutting down further debate and accountability for their many offenses. The next sessional day at Queen’s Park will not be until February 20, after Family Day, and a whopping 76 days later.
This early break coincides with the release of yet another scathing annual report from the Auditor General, which raises more concerns over this government’s many, ever-deepening scandals.
Doug Ford knew that if he and his government had to attend even one more Question Period with our strong NDP Official Opposition, he would face heavy scrutiny and be forced to answer more scorching questions about Ontario Place, his government’s underfunding of healthcare, education and preferential treatment of connected PC insiders.
I am grateful for the Auditor General’s thorough work, which paints a rich picture of a corrupt Conservative government abusing their legislative privileges to justify their deal-making schemes to enrich select insiders. Ford’s PCs are lurching from one terrible decision to another with complete disregard for the consequences. They don’t have a plan to help people who are struggling right now amid an affordability crisis.
The big takeaway from this report is that the Conservatives, like the scandal-riddled Liberals before them, keep getting caught in lies and cover-ups, forcing them to reverse course. These cover-ups and reversals have wasted a year of time and money. This behaviour is unacceptable, especially when Ontarians need a stable and solution-focused government more than ever. As the Official Opposition, we have worked hard to expose the deep rot in the Ford government. With your ongoing support, we have forced them to reverse some of their deceitful policies in a matter of weeks, including their Greenbelt grab and controversial urban boundary expansions.
The AG’s report highlights many failings and gaps from the Ford government, but the largest and most concerning are:
ER closures: between July 2022 and June 2023, there were 203 unplanned ER closures. Patient wait times to see a doctor have increased to two hours over the past decade.
Ontario Science Centre: the government failed to consult key stakeholders on the Science Centre move and made the decision based on ‘incomplete’ and insufficient information, driven by the need to justify a publicly-funded parking garage for a private luxury spa company
Northern Healthcare: 10 Northern hospitals closed their obstetrics/maternal health services between July 2022 and September 2023. Four remain closed, and three were closed for more than a year.
This government shows every day that they think they don’t need to consult with anyone or provide proper care for Ontarians as long as it makes their own wealthy insiders even richer.
Despite Ford shutting down the Legislature to hide from his horrible record of corruption and incompetence, you have my word that the Ontario NDP will keep working hard every day on the issues that will make life better and more affordable for everyone.
I am wishing a very happy Hanukkah to our Jewish community members who began celebrating the Festival of Lights last night, a celebration that continues until next Friday. The story of an enduring light at the darkest time of the year at the heart of this festival is something that we can all learn from to honour the survival of the Jewish people and the resilience of humanity.
Over two thousand years ago, Jews lit the Temple menorah even though they knew it couldn't possibly burn long enough. Over the next eight nights, they witnessed a miracle. I think we could all use a reminder of that hope and light right now. Happy Chanukah and Chag Sameach!
Thank you for your resilience. It is an honour to serve you.
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
You’re Invited: TCNDP Holiday Party! |
Join your neighbours and proud New Democrats at the 519 Community Centre on Thursday, December 14, for the TCNDP Holiday Party.
Get ready for a fabulous dinner, prize giveaways, entertainment, festive cheer, and, of course, surprise VIP guests!
Date: Thursday, December 14, 2023
Time: 6 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: The 519 Community Center, 519 Church Street, Ballroom
All are welcome, including Santa’s little helpers. Please register here to reserve your seats.
RAISE Grants Should Include Queer Businesses |
On Tuesday, I sent a letter to Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism outlining the concerns of many Indigenous and racialized queer business owners, especially those in the Church-Wellesely Village. These business owners should be eligible for the Government of Ontario's RAISE Grant. Still, many are worried about their eligibility because their businesses, from pharmacies to clothing and specialty retailers, include references and products relating to sex, sexuality, and sexual orientation. The Ford Conservatives need to grow up and stop codifying sex-negative attitudes. You can read my letter here.
I also spoke to the CBC about the issue and how it is affecting Indigenous and Racialized queer business owners - you can read that interview here.
No Demovictions Press Conference |
On Wednesday, MPP Jessica Bell and I joined No Demovictions Toronto members and tenants at 25 St Mary Street to introduce a new NDP motion calling for a moratorium on demolishing purpose-built rental buildings.
I have spoken to Ontario renters living in purpose-built rentals and worry that a developer will soon purchase their home to demolish it, given the speculative nature of the housing market. These rent-controlled buildings are some of the last affordable housing options in the province, but they are disappearing at alarming rates, with unaffordable investor-driven condos replacing them. In Toronto alone, there are currently more than 80 large buildings, accounting for 3,225 rental homes slated for demolition. In the middle of a housing crisis, this represents thousands of families who face an uncertain future with no place to go. Across Ontario, the picture becomes even more bleak, with even more families and their homes under threat and living in cities with local tenant protection laws that are weaker than Toronto's.
The Conservatives need to protect Ontario families and their homes - not bulldoze them over.
The proposed moratorium on demovictions would remain in effect until the provincial government guarantees fair compensation for tenants during construction so they can rent an apartment nearby during the entire construction period and permit the tenants to return to their rent-controlled home once construction is complete.
These strong renter protections exist in other fast-growing cities around Canada, like Burnaby, BC, and should be the policy here. Development should not be a zero-sum proposition. We can meet our housing supply needs and protect renters at the same time.
Remembering Ron Ellis |
Frequent readers of this newsletter will know that I work closely with Tribunals Watch Ontario, a citizen watchdog group made up primarilty of retired tribunals workers and adjudicators who are dismayed and fired up about the erosion of tribunals infrastructure.
One of those incredible activists was Ron Ellis, described by his colleagues as "the heart and soul of our Tribunal Watch Ontario Steering Committee". Ron passed away last Sunday.
Alec Farquhar, another incredible member of Tribunals Watch, wrote a moving tribute to Ron. I would like to share part of it here:
Ron Ellis was a giant in the field of administrative justice, especially around adjudicative tribunals. He was the founding Chair of the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal, now WSIAT. But he was so much more to worker advocates, to the legal community, and to all those who support access to justice in our country. We offer our deepest condolences and support to Ruth Ellis and the rest of Ron’s family and to his many friends and colleagues who mourn his passing.
Always at the center of Ron’s work was a belief that everyone deserved an administrative justice system which would provide an expert, fair, transparent and independent process to all those with claims or appeals. This was of course a reasonable expectation for those who need to resort our adjudicative tribunals, but the reality has often fallen far short of this, as Ron documented in his important book called Unjust by Design.. And Ron spoke truth to power on these issues, sometimes at great personal cost. He took a stand in 1997 for the independence of WCAT and that ended his term as Chair.
Ron combined intellectual rigour and a mastery of public policy with the ability to structure and lead major institutions. His work ethic was extraordinary. And he was a marvelous human being, in his family life and relations with friends and colleagues, with a lively enquiring mind and a great sense of humour.
We strive to honour Ron with our own continuing advocacy for the integrity and independence of adjudicative tribunals in Ontario, and especially for the principle that those most vulnerable, such as injured workers, have a right to access to justice.
Community Events & Info |
Toronto Queer Market - Holiday Edition |
Toronto Queer Market is back indoors in The 519's ballroom for their two-day long Holiday Market on Dec 9th and 10th! We have an amazing roster of 40 vendors exhibiting their wares from 11 AM - 4:30 PM on Saturday and 11 AM - 3:30 PM on Sunday in the beautiful ballroom of The 519 Community Center.
There will be a drag show from 2-3 PM with Gay Jesus, Lucinda Miu, and Ryder Toole; drinks, food and so many goodies to come see! And best of all, admission is free!
Make a day of it! We’ll also be at STACKT market (28 Bathurst St) from 1-6 PM on Saturday and Sunday as well with 25 different vendors each day. So head on over after to continue your shopping spree!
RSVP and receive updates about the market here!
Regent Park CC Pancake Breakfast |
Join the Regent Park community for the City's annual pancake breakfast at Regent Park Community Center!
Enjoy pancakes and beverages, a visit from Santa Claus, kids crafts, and family games.
When: Saturday, December 9th (tomorrow!) 10 AM - 2 PM
Where: Regent Park Community Center, 402 Shuter Street.
Yonge Street Mission Toy Drive |
Join Yonge Street Mission in bringing the magic of Christmas to over 450 families & 950 children facing hardship through YSM’s Toy Market
Donate online, mail in your toys, or drop them off in person. The deadline for donations is Wednesday, December 20.
Donate new toys in person or lend a helping hand at YSM’s Toy Market from Dec 14, 15 & 18-20 at 306 Gerrard Street East. Let's make this holiday unforgettable for every child!
Learn more about the toy market, preferred donations, and how to get involved here.
Support Corktown Businesses and Win! |
Be one of four people to Win 2 General Admission Tickets to Illuminarium Winter Wonderland at the Distillery. Compliments of the Distillery District Winter Village and the Corktown Residents and Business Association (CRBA).
From Berkeley to River, Front to Shuter Streets: Historic Corktown main street businesses look forward to your visit and are ready to greet you.
Contest Details:
Questions? Email [email protected] for more information.
51 Division Toy Drive |
Get into the spirit of giving with the 51 Division toy drive! Please bring new, unwrapped toys to be given to children in need in our communities.
Donations can be dropped off to 51 Division Police Station at 51 Parliament Street any time during the holiday season.
Friends of Regent Park Community Skate |
Join Friends of Regent Park for their Community Skate!
When: Saturday, December 30, 1 PM - 3 PM
Where: Regent Park Ice Rink, 480 Shuter Street
FORP have reserved the City's skate lending library. Skates and helmets will be available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are you Ontario’s Next Poet Laureate? |
The Legislative Assembly of Ontario is seeking nominees to fill the role of Poet Laureate of Ontario. Created in 2019 and named in memory of the late Gord Downie, this appointment is subject to the Poet Laureate of Ontario Act.
Ontario's Poet Laureate will be appointed for a two-year term as an Officer of the Legislative Assembly.
COVID-19 Testing |
The spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses is increasing as the weather gets colder and people stay indoors. Learn more about testing options near you here
This week, you likely heard about the “New Deal for Toronto” that Mayor Olivia Chow struck with Doug Ford. This historic agreement will go a long way to fixing the City’s budget shortfall and making long-overdue investments in Toronto. Mayor Chow secured new investments for transit, housing, and the unimaginable — uploading the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway to the province. The upload alone will save the city $1.2 billion in expenses over just the next three years. Previous Mayors have not been able to get a deal like this done. It is a testament to the strength of Mayor Chow that she has secured this victory for the City.
If you would like to learn more about the New Deal for Toronto, you can read the joint press release, the full terms of reference document, and CBC’s thorough coverage.
But it wouldn’t be a week at Queen’s Park without Ford Conservatives trying to cover up their questionable dealings with controversial legislation. And so, the government tabled Bill 154, the “New Deal for Toronto Act,” on Monday.
You might reasonably think that this proposed act codifies into law the recent terms of reference of the deal or the details broadly reported in the media. Alarmingly, Ford's Bill 154 confirms absolutely no new funding and makes no reference to uploading the highways.
Instead, this bill has two schedules. Schedule 1 requires that the Government of Ontario and the City of Toronto further discuss the themes of the New Deal for Toronto. It does not commit to anything, nor does it set out any agreements. You may be wondering, “Does the government need a bill passed in order to have a discussion?” The answer is, of course, no. Schedule 1 is window dressing meant to distract Ontarians from the actual point of the bill, which is Schedule 2.
Schedule 2 gives this government extraordinary powers to sidestep and even break its own laws without any consequence in order to build a private luxury spa at Ontario Place. It also gives itself the power to limit the City of Toronto’s ability to sell or make other changes to the small part of Ontario place that the city owns. This confirms what we already knew: The fight for Ontario Place has always been at Queen’s Park.
Bill 154 sets a dangerous precedent for how far Ford’s Conservatives will go to exempt themselves from provincial laws and avoid legal accountability. The bill focuses entirely on allowing Ford’s Conservatives to bypass various laws to fast-track the Ontario Place redevelopment while exempting themselves from any legal ramifications for damages they may cause.
I will be fighting this draconian and anti-democratic bill every step of the way. I debated against it in the Legislature yesterday and will continue to do so.
I would love to hear your reactions to this bill as well as any stories you may have about Ontario Place. Please reply to this email with your stories – I will do my best to share them in the legislature.
Its an honour to serve you,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
You’re Invited: TCNDP Holiday Party! |
Join your neighbours and proud New Democrats at the 519 Community Centre on Thursday, December 14, for the TCNDP Holiday Party.
Get ready for a fabulous dinner, prize giveaways, entertainment, festive cheer, and, of course, surprise VIP guests!
Date: December 14, 2023
Time: 6 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: The 519 Community Centre, 519 Church Street, Ballroom
All are welcome including Santa’s little helpers. Please register here to reserve your seats.
Ford’s PCs vote NO on Free Birth Control |
Yesterday, Ford’s Conservatives voted against giving Ontarians universal contraception. The bill, tabled by my colleague, MPP Jennie Stevens, was a common sense measure to lower barriers to accessing vital health care for so many, and a clear way to help lower costs amidst an affordability crisis.
Despite this setback, the fight for universal contraception access doesn’t end here. Your Official Opposition NDP team will keep advocating for this important measure until everyone in Ontario has access to the health care they need.
You can watch me speak in the Legislature about the importance of universally accessible contraception here.
Kitchener Centre By-Election |
Yesterday was election day in Kitchener Centre and voters overwhelmingly rejected Doug Ford and his corrupt politics.
Our Ontario NDP candidate Debbie Chapman ran a strong campaign focused on the issues that mattered. Our NDP team from across the province turned up to support her, and we saw a huge number of students and university clubs come out because they all believe in Debbie and her values.
There’s always work to be done. As a team, we will reflect on the campaign. But the message from Kitchener voters is clear: After more than five years of Doug Ford, life has become harder and more expensive for everyone, except for his select insiders.
Kitchener said no. They also said no to the Liberals, who held Kitchener Centre for 15 years before it went NDP orange in 2018. The Liberals fell to fourth place in yesterday’s by-election.
I join Debbie in congratulating Aislinn Clancy on her by-election win and look forward to meeting her in the Legislature soon.
World AIDS Day |
Today is World AIDS Day, a chance to celebrate everyone working on the frontlines of HIV/AIDS and to recommit to do better for everyone living with HIV/AIDS. This World AIDS Day follows a year of rising homophobia and transphobia that has shown how tenuous gains towards social inclusion can be. Appropriately, the theme ‘Let Communities Lead’ stresses the importance of ensuring that the vulnerable communities overrepresented in the transmission of HIV/AIDS are the ones leading the delivery of service.
World AIDS Day reminds us that AIDS is not over. HIV/AIDS survivors deserve better public health education and ongoing mental, social, and medical support. People at risk need better access to testing and publicly funded pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Many communities need our government to do a better job at stepping up to mitigate and treat HIV/AIDS. Two-Spirit, Black, racialized, Trans communities, as well as women living with HIV/AIDS deserve better. Harm reduction advocates continue to struggle to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS without adequate government funding.
I, along with our whole Ontario NDP team, want the HIV/AIDS prevention community to know that we will continue to fight for you to get the funding and services you deserve. Thank you for all that you do and for all the lives you have saved.
Community Events & Info |
Holiday In the Patch |
Cabbagetown is an amazing community, so let's celebrate it! The Cabbagetown BIA is proud to present a day to celebrate the people and businesses that make Cabbagetown so special. We will be inviting the community to join us once again on Saturday, December 2nd, for Holiday in the Patch - a day of caroling, live music, photos with Santa, and lots of fun for the whole family!
This fun FREE event takes place Saturday, December 2nd, 12 PM - 4 PM across The Cabbagetown BIA, along Parliament Street!
Riverdale Farm Holiday Tree Lighting |
Visit Riverdale Farm for their annual holiday tree lighting tomorrow, Saturday, December 2nd, at 7 PM!
Light refreshments and abundant holiday cheer will be served.
Lights Across the Legislature |
Enjoy an evening at Ontario’s Parliament Building! Enjoy guided tours, festive refreshments, merry meet-and-greets, holiday story time, and crafts. Take a photo by the trees and shop at the Legislative Assembly Gift Shop.
Monday, December 4, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Free. Registration required - click here to register now!
Questions? Email [email protected]
Are you Ontario’s Next Poet Laureate? |
The Legislative Assembly of Ontario is seeking nominees to fill the role of Poet Laureate of Ontario. Created in 2019 and named in memory of the late Gord Downie, this appointment is subject to the Poet Laureate of Ontario Act.
Ontario's Poet Laureate will be appointed for a two-year term as an Officer of the Legislative Assembly.
Warming Center Peer Job Fair |
Date: December 6th, 2023
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Daniels Spectrum
Do you have lived experience of homelessness? Interested in peer work but don’t have training or experience?
This winter, Dixon Hall and the Toronto Shelter Network are expanding their peer work program at Warming Centers. They have partnered with TSN’s Pipeline Project to offer free, low-barrier, paid training for anyone interested in working as a peer with warming center visitors. Once training is complete, participants will be able to work at Warming Centre this season.
To apply, simply attend the job fair on December 6th at Daniel’s Spectrum. Staff will help you fill out an application and answer any questions you may have. You do not need any prior training or experience to apply.
Participants Needed - Long-Covid Study |
Do you or someone you know have long-COVID or never had COVID-19? Consider joining Sunnybrook’s Neurocovid study by completing the pre-screening survey here! Contact them at [email protected] or [email protected] with any questions.
COVID-19 Testing |
The spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses is increasing as the weather gets colder and people stay indoors. Learn more about testing options near you here
Wednesday was National Housing Day and we had an incredible and action-packed day at Queen’s Park.
My colleagues MPPs Jessica Bell, Chris Glover, and I were joined at the Legislature by more than 80 clients, workers, and advocates from affordable housing and shelter organizations. We held a press conference calling for the government to invest in deeply affordable housing, which you can watch here.
During question period, the Ontario NDP caucus themed our questions around housing, asking about housing affordability, non-market housing solutions, and domestic violence shelters. You can watch me ask the government how they let the Landlord Tenant Board fall into crisis here.
It is frustrating that this government is continuing to push the financialization of housing and cutting costs for for-profit housing providers without a dedicated plan to help non-profit or co-op housing organizations. Housing is a human right, not just an investment. We know that we need a mix of housing options that include deeply affordable, supportive, co-op, and non-profit models. We also need real rent control and to at least double ODSP and OW payments.
So many of the pressures that we are experiencing in our communities and on our social services would be lessened if more of our most vulnerable and marginalized neighbours had secure housing and were lifted out of poverty. My ONDP colleagues and I will keep pushing for these proven solutions and lifting up the voices of experts like the ones we were joined by on Wednesday.
Dreaming of housing and justice for all,
Kristyn
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
SAVE THE DATETCNDP Holiday Party |
Please save the date to join the Toronto Centre NDP for our annual holiday party on the evening of Thursday, December 14th.
I will share details soon, but until then, get ready for great food, giveaways, festive cheer, and of course, excellent conversations with neighbours!
Election Day in Kitchener Centre |
There is a provincial by-election happening in Kitchener Centre right now and election day is this Thursday, November 30th!
This is an NDP seat, but the race is going to be close. We need all the help we can get to keep Kitchener Centre Orange and elect Debbie Chapman.
If you can make it down to Kitchener or make some phone calls from home for even an hour or two on Thursday it would be a huge help. If you need a ride please let me know by replying to this email.
Election Day in Scarborough Southwest |
There is a municipal by-election happening in Scarborough Southwest right now! Advance polls are open this weekend and election day is this Thursday, November 30th!
This race is incredibly important - it will decide whether the progressives and our mayor, Olivia Chow, hold the balance of power in at City Council. Our progressive champion in Scarborough Southwest is Kevin Rupasinghe. Kevin is an exciting young progressive who will be a strong voice for Scarborough.
If you can make it to Scarborough or make some phone calls from home for even an hour or two this weekend or on Thursday it would be a huge help.
Trans Day of Remembrance Flag Raising |
On Monday, a wonderful group of trans folks and their allies came to Queen’s Park to mark Trans Day of Remembrance by raising the Trans flag. On this solemn day, we remember those gone too soon and recommit to creating a world where every Trans person is valued and safe.
You can watch the flag raising here:
The Ontario NDP will always fight for the rights and respect our Trans community deserves.
Thank you, Toronto Pflag, Cheri DiNovo, and our other guests for joining us. Your message of parents protecting Trans kids with love and support is more critical than ever.
Watch me ask Doug Ford to take action and protect trans communities here:
Justice for Soleiman Faqiri |
Soleiman Faqiri died while in the custody of the provincial correctional system after a mental health crisis. He was beaten, pepper sprayed, and restrained face-down, leading to his death. This violence is unacceptable and heartbreaking. His family is still waiting for truth and justice in his case.
Ontarians deserve systemic change in our justice systems. And people in mental health crisis deserve help, not violence. You can watch me ask Doug Ford to fix our justice system so that another tragedy like this doesn't happen again here.
Fill Judicial Vacancies |
Internal government documents show that on November 19, 2021, the Attorney General was notified of an imminent judicial vacancy in Cornwall. Two years later, that vacancy is still not filled. Is the Attorney General stalling because his conservative candidate choice was not on the list of qualified recommendations?
This government has a shameful record of placing their less-than-qualified friends in cushy political appointments. It is frustrating to see this continue even after multiple bombshell scandals from this government.
You can watch me ask the Attorney General why he hasn't filled this vacancy here.
Renovictions at 30 Charles St E |
Tenants at 30 Charles Street East are being renovicted and harassed by their horrible landlord. I was proud to join my colleague, MPP Jessica Bell, to stand alongside tenants and their call for justice.
If you see Harrington Housing — a "student" housing provider — start to take over units in your building, contact my office at [email protected]. Harrington Housing is abusing tenant rights AND city bylaws — we must hold them accountable!
Watch a video of the demonstration outside of 30 Charles St E here.
ONDP Plan for Free Contraceptives |
I am thrilled that on Thursday, our Leader, Marit Stiles, shared the Ontario NDP’s plan to expand OHIP to cover prescription contraception and remove cost barriers that limit people's ability to choose their reproductive health and family planning.
Do you have a story about how access to contraception affected your life? Or the impact that free contraception would have made for you? Share your story here!
Sign the petition to support access to free contraception here!
I couldn’t agree more with Marit when she said, “This is an exciting and long overdue initiative that I’m so proud our NDP team is putting forward. This is a truly non-partisan and common-sense way to ensure that everyone who needs it has full access to reproductive planning and choices.”
NDP MPP Jennie Stevens tabled this motion for International Women’s Day in 2023, which will be debated at Queen’s Park on November 29, 2023. Stay tuned for updates!
If enacted, this change would follow in the footsteps of the provinces of British Colombia and Manitoba. BC launched their program recently, and in the first six months, it was accessed by thousands. Manitoba announced their plan just last week, and I am excited to hear about their outcomes. So many incredible advocates are working to make sure Ontario joins this leading initiative, and the Ontario NDP is standing with them to make it happen.”
Community Events & Info |
Holiday In the Patch |
Cabbagetown is an amazing community, so let's celebrate it! The Cabbagetown BIA is proud to present a day to celebrate the people and businesses that make Cabbagetown so special. We will be inviting the community to join us once again on Saturday, December 2nd, for Holiday in the Patch - a day of caroling, live music, photos with Santa, and lots of fun for the whole family!
This fun FREE event takes place Saturday, December 2nd, 12 PM - 4 PM across The Cabbagetown BIA, along Parliament Street!
Toy Drives |
Get into the spirit of giving with toy drives happening in our communities. Please bring new, unwrapped toys to be given to children in need in our communities.
Drop off new, unwrapped toys to 51 Division any time during the holiday season.
OR
Support the CP24 CHUM Christmas WISH toy drive to bring a little extra joy to children in our community this holiday season.
Help Santa and his elves by donating a new, unwrapped toy at Queen's Park Circle and Berczy Park during The Original Santa Claus Parade on November 26th.
Regent Park Film Festival |
The 21st annual Regent Park Film Festival is finally here! The festival runs from November 23 - 26, so get out and see a film this weekend.
See their full lineup and schedule and get free tickets through their website here.
Queer East Social Fa-la-la-bulous Festive Market |
On November 29th, join Café ZUZU for the Queer East Social Fa-la-la-bulous Festive Market will bring together local Queer & Trans organizations to mingle with like-minded individuals and support Queer owned and/or operated businesses while having fun!
Complimentary: Polaroid Photo Room & local Queer DJ spinning pure honey.
On the Beats: DJ ThirdEye
Special Drag Performance: Miss Renona & Miss Shay Dee
Artist Selection: Draw-A-Dot Programmed
Market open: November 29, 4 PM - 10 PM
Social & bar open: November 29, 6 PM - 10 PM
Location: Café ZUZU at 555 Dundas Street East
12+ artists, retailers, bespoke crafts-people, paired perfectly for the gifting season
Event is Rain or Shine
Register for a free ticket here!
Assaulted Women's Helpline |
November is Women's Abuse and Family Violence Prevention Month. If you or a woman you know is facing violence, the Assaulted Women's Helpline does incredible work to support women who are in violent or abusive situations. You can visit them at AWHL.org or by phone at 416-863-0511
Intimate Partner Violence has been declared an epidemic in 30+ municipalities, and I am working hard to have it declared Ontario-wide. If you have stories that you would like me to share in the legislature please reply to this email.