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Dear friend,

It was a whirlwind week at Queen Park this week as Ford tries to rush through his political agenda ahead of an early election. 

But if you take one thing away from this newsletter, it is that Ford is trying to distract and divide Ontarians before a snap election. 

Despite all medical research, Ford started the week with wedge politics by tabling his misguided bill to shut down Ontario's Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS). This bill will cost lives and distracts from how impossible it is for Ontarians to access addiction treatment or supportive housing. Ford wants Ontarians divided over existing CTS sites to distract attention from his chronic under investment in mental health care, addiction recovery programs and supportive housing — the real cause of the challenges that residents are seeing on our streets. 

What’s Ford trying to distract from? He knows that his biggest weakness is how voters believe (know) him to be corrupt. And Ontario New Democrats keep his feet to the fire about his latest Cash-for-Access Scandal that connects the Greenbelt, to Ontario Place, to the Science Centre. Global News revealed that the Conservative Party Fundraising Director told Ford’s Cabinet Ministers that they have a quota of 2 to 5 fundraising events for the PC Party a year. One trucking association that was lobbying Ford’s Transportation Minister felt the need to tally up how much it raised from its members at a fundraiser so that this total could be “presented to the Minister” because “that is the only way to win this battle.”  Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles filed an Integrity Commissioner Complaint about the obvious appearance of “cash-for-access” this week. 

But Doug Ford doesn’t like the tune of the consequences of his actions on repeat — so he quickly tried changing the channel by adding amendments to his Bill to rip up sections of Bike Lanes on University, Bloor, and Yonge St. with a grotesque provision that “the province cannot be sued if cyclists are hurt or killed on sections of streets where bikelanes are removed”. He knows drivers are furious at congestion, but rather than building the Eglinton Crosstown or a faster safer TTC, he wants to divide Ontarians by pitting cyclists against drivers. 

Ford’s abuse of power is enough to get anyone down — and that’s why I worked to bring forward positive solutions at the legislature: I tabled my Bill to fix the Tribunal Backlog on Tuesday; kept the heat on Ford’s Ministers to fix the Lobbyist Act in committee on Thursday by moving a motion they had to awkwardly vote against. 

And I know the Taylor Swift fans reading will appreciate this, I also tabled two motions this week to take on the monopoly Ticketmaster and LiveNation have over the live performance sector. My first motion calls on the government to investigate and implement solutions to the extortion in the ticket resale market. The second calls on the government to implement equitable funding and support for all cultural, arts, and sports venues. I had a media availability with MPP Chris Glover in our neighbouring riding and young Taylor Swift Fans who were locked out of the Eras Tour by Ticketmaster’s anti-competitive practices and extortion.

This Monday, November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and it marks the kick-off of 16 Days of Activism to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) including intimate partner violence (IPV). I will begin my morning at Queen’s Park by hosting a press conference with members of the legal community working to address GBV and IPV. In the evening, I invite you to join me for the Toronto book launch of “And Sometimes They Kill You: Confronting the Epidemic of Intimate Partner Violence” by feminist lawyer Pam Cross, at Victoria College. All are welcome. 

In other positive news, the Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Party is confirmed for Sunday December 8, 2024 from 2 – 4 PM at the Banquet Hall of the Regent Park Community Centre. There will be food, music, great conversation and door prizes. RSVP with the link below and I look forward to seeing it at the party! 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• ICC Issues Arrest Warrants Against Leaders of Hamas and Israel
• My Bill to Fix the Tribunals Backlog
• Trans Day of Remembrance 2024
• National Housing Day At Queen’s Park
• New Neighbourhood Signs for Church and Wellesley
• New Affordable Housing in Toronto Centre Opens!
• This Week’s Meetings
• This Week’s Headlines
• Upcoming Community Events

This week the International Criminal Court took the next step after their investigation to their Chief Prosecutors alleged war crimes earlier this year by issuing arrest warrants for Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Masri of Hamas (who the government of Israel alleges to have died in July) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. 

This means that the International Criminal Court, upon reviewing the evidence provided by their Chief Prosecutor believes that the civilian leadership of Israel’s government are criminally responsible in the "war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts," in Israel's war following the Hamas-led attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. Both bear "criminal responsibility as civilian superiors for the war crime… against the civilian population."

It is positive — after pointed questions from the NDP in Ottawa — that the Trudeau government clarified that Canada would enforce ICC warrants should the reported war criminals set foot on Canadian soil. But the government should do more. In addition to calling for the release of all hostages, we must push the Netanyahu government to implement an immediate ceasefire and facilitate the immediate flow of humanitarian aid. The Federal government should ensure that no weapons made in Canada are being used against civilians by shipment through the United States at a bare minimum.  

On Tuesday I tabled my latest Private Member’s Bill — the Fixing Tribunals Ontario Backlogs Act — with my co-sponsors MPPs Doly Begum, Bhutila Karpoche, and Chandra Pasma. This bill puts real solutions on the table to challenge Ford’s ongoing failure to meaningfully reduce ongoing historic backlogs at the Landlord Tenant Board, Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario and other tribunals. Click here to share the bill with anyone affected by this issue.

This week was the Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), and I had the honour of delivering the Official Opposition’s TDOR Statement in the Legislature. Recognition for this important day was enshrined into law by former Ontario NDP MPP, Rev. Dr. Cheri Di Novo, and it was so meaningful to see the annual Queen’s Park flagraising led by Friends of Ruby — an important  local 2SLGBTQI+ youth shelter and drop-in centre in Toronto Centre. While the community that gathered to remember and celebrate Trans communities was beautiful — to be entirely truthful, it was challenging to sit through platitudes from a government that voted against my Gender Affirming Health Care Act, which would have brought real action and funding to support the Trans and non-binary community. Thank goodness for the Queer and Trans communities who gather to keep each other grounded.

Yesterday, on National Housing Day, I was joined by 100+ advocates, housing professionals and clients who told Doug Ford that we need an actionable plan to end homelessness and encampments – one that ensures vulnerable Ontarians have access to deeply affordable and supportive housing. Along with Toronto Centre’s Street Haven and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northeastern Ontario, I pushed the Conservatives with a press conference calling on Ford to step up with funding alongside housing shelter workers — and again in Question Period calling out that housing construction starts under him have cratered to levels not seen since 1955.

Check out the new neighborhood signs in the Church and Wellesley Village! Congratulations to Madison Matti Charlton — the designer of the beautiful new signs up in our neighbourhood. A big thank you is owed to the Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association, Councillor and City of Toronto for supporting this amazing project!

New affordable housing is opening in Toronto Centre! Congratulations to Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC), Daniels Corporation and the new residents soon to move into 175 Oak Street in March 2025. This building is a major milestone in the revitalization of Regent Park because community members from previously demolished TCHC buildings can now move back to brand-new homes. Imagine how much more could be built if we had a provincial government that built deeply affordable housing on the scale of the housing crisis?

• Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario
• Chicken Farmers of Ontario
• Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance
• Ontario Student Voices
• Lawyers' Professional Indemnity Company
• Canadian Civil Liberties Association

Bikes v cars: backlash after Ontario premier threatens to tear up cycling lanes in Toronto

No one knows who owns this Toronto laneway, but neighbours say it's become a dangerous dumping ground

The Toronto Community Tenant Union (TCTU) invites residents to a training and orientation session at The 519 (519 Church Street) on Wednesday, November 27, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. This session, organized in collaboration with The 519 Health Justice Hub and the Canadian Justice Council, offers insights into TCTU's work and tenant organizing.

Attendees will learn strategies to address challenges such as inadequate maintenance and rent increases. This event is a valuable opportunity to empower tenants and foster community solidarity.

Voices for Change: Ending Gender-Based Violence Among Refugees and Newcomers is taking place on Thursday, November 28, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 163 Queen Street East, Toronto. This event coincides with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and will feature inspiring speakers, insightful discussions, and interactive sessions addressing critical issues faced by refugee and newcomer communities.

From 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, participants can engage in expert-led workshops and discussions, choosing their preferred session in advance.

This impactful event promises to be a space for learning, dialogue, and action. For those interested, early registration is encouraged to secure participation.

Click here to register.

The Regent Park Film Festival invites the community to enjoy a lineup of films, discussions, and events. This free, accessible festival takes place from November 28 to December 1, 2024, at Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St. E, Toronto.

Festival Highlights:

• Thursday, Nov 28
  • Opening Night Party – 6:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)
  • Boxcutter – 7:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    A gripping story about a young aspiring rapper in Regent Park.
• Friday, Nov 29
  • Village Keeper – 9:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    A tale about family, identity, and community housing.
• Saturday, Nov 30
  • Palestine & Censorship in the Arts – 7:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)
    A panel exploring the intersection of arts and activism.
• Sunday, Dec 1
  • Radiant Visions: In Conversation with Alicia K. Harris – 4:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    Join filmmaker Alicia K. Harris in a discussion on creativity and representation.
  • Free Community Breakfast – 10:00 a.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)

Special Events:

• Industry Meet & Greet – Saturday, Nov 30 & Sunday, Dec 1, 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)

For the full program and free tickets, click here. 

St. Michael's College invites you to its annual Christmas Market on Sunday, December 3, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Elmsley Place. Attendees can shop for unique gifts and treats from student and alumni vendors offering items like baked goods and jewelry.

Proceeds from the event, along with in-kind donations, will support Romero House and St. Basil's Out of the Cold Program. Contributions of winter accessories or $20 gift cards are welcome.

Celebrate the festive season while supporting these important initiatives!

The Good Food Market is hosting The Little Trinity Christmas Market—a festive market with purpose, supporting Good Shepherd Ministries.

Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Time: 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Location: 425 King Street East, Toronto

Event Highlights:

• Christmas shopping with handcrafted items and baked goods.
• Live music featuring Christmas jazz by Juno-nominated pianist Ewen Farncombe.
• Free hot chocolate, goodies, and fresh fruits and veggies from GFM.
• Opportunities to donate.

All proceeds support Good Shepherd Ministries. Join in for a meaningful holiday experience!

The Cabbagetown BIA invites you to Holiday in The Patch, a festive celebration happening on Saturday, December 7, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM. Join in for a day filled with holiday cheer, fun activities, and local shopping in the heart of Cabbagetown.

Highlights include:

• Treasure Hunt: Solve clues, explore local businesses, and compete for prizes worth up to $1,500.
• Outdoor Après Ski Lounge & Karaoke: Enjoy hot apple cider, lawn games, and holiday karaoke.
• Photos with Santa: Visit Santa at 237 Carlton Street starting at 12:00 PM.
• Exclusive In-Store Events: Discover special promotions and unique experiences throughout the BIA.

Celebrate the season, shop local, and enjoy the magic of the holidays in Cabbagetown. For more details or to register for the treasure hunt, click here. 

Celebrate the season at the Holiday Tree Lighting at Riverdale Farm! Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, carolers, crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate.

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Tree lighting at 7:00 p.m.; gates close at 8:00 p.m.)
Location: Riverdale Farm, 201 Winchester St, Toronto, ON

Bring family and friends to enjoy the holiday magic in a beautiful farm setting. For more information, call 416-392-6794.

The Town of York Historical Society and Toronto's First Post Office invite you to their Annual Holiday Open House—a festive, family-friendly event!

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EST
Location: Toronto's First Post Office, 260 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 1N1

Event Highlights:

• Write holiday letters or postcards, including letters to Santa!
• Design your own Christmas postcard and enjoy holiday crafts (while supplies last).
• Seasonal treats will be available for all ages.

Admission: Entry by donation.

All are welcome to drop in and enjoy the holiday spirit at this historic venue!

Abeena Samm and Recognize Your Face Market Ministry Place invite the community to the 15th Annual Socks Drive at their "Bean Stock Sock Hop" event. Join for an evening of music and support for those in need.

Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; Showtime from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2B7

For more information, visit recognizeyourface.com.

Dear friend,

Ontarians deserve access to justice. As the Official Opposition Critic for the Ministry of the Attorney General, I am deeply committed to making the justice system work. We deserve timely hearings at tribunals, access to legal aid when needed, and confidence that judicial decision-makers are subject matter experts, not just insiders connected to the Premier and the PC party.

That is why I will be tabling a new private member’s bill, the Fixing the Tribunals Ontario Backlogs Act, next week. If passed, my bill would accomplish three key actions needed to restore accountability and transparency to the tribunal system and clear the backlog.

1. Create dedicated backlog reduction panels of adjudicators solely dedicated to clearing Ontario’s case backlog at the LTB and HRTO.
2. Create an access to justice committee that would make recommendations with mandatory reporting on restoring in-person hearings, better funding Legal Aid, and improving access to in-person duty counsel.
3. Create an impartial expert-led process to ensure legal experts and not political hacks are appointed to Ontario’s Tribunals.

Yesterday, I held a press conference with tenants, Tribunal Watch Ontario, and my colleague MPP Bhutila Karpoche to shine a light on how delays are affecting everyone. I am proud to have their endorsement of my bill. You can watch the whole press conference here. 

New data recently released from Tribunal Watch Ontario showed that 93% of final decisions are no-hearing dismissals of cases. Furthermore, 80% of those are because the case is deemed abandoned by the person who filed it. This is unsurprising since the HRTO has a multi-year backlog and is increasingly complex to navigate without a lawyer. Many people abandon their cases because when the case comes up for consideration, the issue is no longer possible to resolve or relevant, or the complainant has given up on the process. The system is also rife with errors, both on the side of complainants because the process is increasingly inaccessible to non-lawyers and on the administrative side, with documents submitted by complainants not being uploaded by staff. 

Despite the number of applications to the HRTO decreasing every year for the last several years and the fact that only 2.7% of applications receive a substantive decision after all evidence has been considered (and the fact that almost all of those cases were filed between 3-10 years ago), the backlog continues to grow. If that isn’t evidence of a system not working, I don’t know what is. 

At the press conference, we heard from Julian, a tenant in Parkdale who has waited two years at the Landlord Tenant Board for a simple Above-Guidleine Rent Increase (AGI) hearing. Julian shared that “LTB delays mean that my neighbours and I are unable to plan our monthly finances with confidence. I am waiting to learn if I need to be prepared for 2.5% on top of a 2.5% increase or if I only owe my landlord the guideline increase. I have a fixed income, and Ford’s Tribunal delays are making it impossible to budget.” 

Tenants deserve answers and predictability regarding their rent. They deserve to have their hearing promptly so they can plan their lives and not have an expensive decision hanging over them for years. 

We also heard from Anthony, a tenant on ODSP who attended an online hearing and experienced stress as his home was put on display for everyone watching. He also experienced distracting worries about whether he was on mute during critical moments or if his internet would cut out. We have all experienced these things during regular meetings. I can only imagine how stressful it would be to worry about technology failing you when your housing hangs in the balance.

Happy Taylor Swift weekend #1 to all who are celebrating! I am incredibly excited to be shaking it off and attending the Era’s Tour tonight with my spouse, Farrah. When Farrah was in the thick of her cancer treatment (what a cruel summer that was), we bought these tickets to have something joyful and fun to look forward to while we were stuck in the Tortured Poets Department.  And now the day is here! I am so grateful that Farrah is well enough to attend and chose me as her date for the night - I'm so glad that my invisible string ties me to her.

I hope everyone attending the shows over the next two weeks has a fun and safe evening and that your wildest dreams comes true. I encourage everyone who can to take public transportation to the event (no getaway car needed!) and to leave lots of extra time to get to the venue so that you can have the best day!

You can learn more about street closures, transportation plans, and the other mastermind measures the city has put in place to keep everyone moving safely here. You are not on your own, kid!

Forever and always,  

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Trans Day of Remembrance Flag Raising at Queen's Park
• Remembrance Day in Toronto Centre
• ODSP’s Policies Discriminate
• Committee Hearings on Regulating A.I.
• World Record SMASHED for HIV/AIDS Awareness Ribbon Making
• CWNA Winter Open House
• Tanzanian Women's Association of Canada Launch
• Rhythms of Change Book Launch
• Reel Asian Film Festival Opening Night
• This Week’s Meetings
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

This upcoming Wednesday, I invite you to join me and Friends of Ruby for a flag raising and moment of silence at Queen's Park. The flag raising will be at 2:30 PM, followed by a reception in the NDP Caucus Boardroom. I hope to see you there to honour our Trans and Non-binary siblings and mourn those we have lost to transphobia. 

Click here to RSVP and we will see you there!

On Monday, I attended an incredibly meaningful Remembrance Day ceremony organized by the Cabbagetown BIA. So many community members attended, and everyone deeply appreciated the opportunity to remember and honour the diverse veterans and support workers who gave everything for their country and community. Days like these provide crucial reminders that we have successfully fought and defeated Nazis and Fascists in the past.

After the ceremony, I was graciously invited to St. James Cemetery by George Vrozos, who showed me where the veterans rested and the commemorations that St. James Cemetery carries out for them each year. 

I am very thankful for this work, which gives our community members and families a chance to pay our respects to those who gave everything for our freedom.

We need to double ODSP rates and end legislated poverty in Ontario. Instead, Ford’s Government continues to deflect blame and provide non-answers while thousands of Ontarians on ODSP struggle to make ends meet and homelessness rates continue to rise. Last week, I asked the government when they would double ODSP and give Ontarians living with disabilities the support they need to live good lives. Unfortunately but predictably, they dodged the question and refused to support Ontarians. 

Did you know that Ontario does not have full marriage equality? Individuals receiving ODSP have their benefits immediately cut or even eliminated entirely when they so much as move in with a partner, let alone get married to them. Could you imagine wanting to build a family with the person you love but knowing that doing that means you will lose all of your income? Ontarians with disabilities face that decision. As someone who campaigned for equal marriage for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I know how important it is to keep pushing. It is frustrating that we don’t have an ally in the Ford government. 

Yesterday and today, I attended committee hearings about the Government’s Bill 194, which regulates the use of generative AI and machine learning in the Ontario Public Service and Ontario government agencies. 

Large language models like ChatGPT will touch every aspect of our lives, and it makes sense for the government to develop a regulatory framework to govern how the technology is used. However, the hearings became more dramatic when the Privacy Commissioner presented on how she submitted her recommendations on this bill to the government in advance of them tabling it, but  ignored. 

The privacy commissioner recommended that the government treat children’s data as highly sensitive and put in place safeguards for vulnerable Ontarians' privacy rights. These are incredibly reasonable recommendations, and I am beyond concerned that this government is not acting on them. I will advocate for her vital recommendations to be integrated into the bill so that machine learning is used in a way that protects vulnerable Ontarians’ human rights and privacy rights. 

On Tuesday, we saw the power of community and remembrance in action. I was honoured to join CANFAR with Marit Stiles as we came together to honour World AIDS Day and break the Guinness World Record for the most AIDS ribbons made in an hour! We smashed the previous world record, making 11,255 ribbons in total! 

As we did this work, we were filled with the spirit of hope and solidarity with the thousands of Canadians who are diagnosed with HIV but not yet on treatment. Let’s keep this fight alive and visible. You can learn more about this campaign here.

I had a wonderful time this past Saturday catching up with friends and neighbours at the Church and Wellesley Neighbourhood Association Winter Drop-In. They hosted such a cozy gathering featuring a very successful winter mitten and scarf drive! Talk about community!

I had so much fun at the Tanzanian Women's Association of Canada launch on Saturday! Community associations like these help us to empower and build up one another as we work towards an Ontario that is truly inclusive and welcoming to everyone. I am so excited to see what these women accomplish next.

It was a joy for Marit Stiles and I to join Mitchell Cohen of The Daniels Corporation for his reading from Rhythms of Change — a book about how Regent Park is changing. Mitchell’s words capture the faces and places that are the beating heart of the Regent Park revitalization. You can find the book at the library or your local bookshop!

I look forward to the Reel Asian Film Festival every year, and it never disappoints! I had a blast at their opening night on Wednesday and want to thank the festival organizers and sponsors who put countless hours in behind the scenes, fighting to bring more Asian representation to the film industry, in front of and behind the camera. Check out their stellar movie line-up at  ReelAsian.com and go to a screening this weekend!

This constituency week I met with:

• Better Way Alliance
• Toronto Street Soccer

Attainable housing program stalled despite Ontario choosing ‘demonstration sites’

Taylor Swift's indelible connection with Regent Park

Removing bike lanes will cost at least $48M: city staff report

Ontario Science Centre workers say goodbye as repairs continue

Canada Post workers go on strike Friday morning, disrupting deliveries

City of Toronto clears encampments near Rogers Centre ahead of sold-out Taylor Swift shows

Neighbourhood Information Post is excited to invite you to the launch of the Moss Park Community Cookbook to sample delicious dishes featured in the cookbook. Hear personal stories behind the recipes, and enter a raffle!

Location: Toronto Public Library (Parliament Street Branch), 269 Gerrard Street East, 2nd Floor.

Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024

Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

For more information, contact Rasana at 416-924-2543 x 0 or email [email protected].

The Bay Cloverhill Community Association invites members, partners, and residents to attend their Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: Central YMCA - YMCA of Greater Toronto Area, 20 Grosvenor Street, Grosvenor Room, 2nd Floor, Toronto

Refreshments will be served.

For more information, visit baycloverhill.com or email [email protected].

Looking for something fun to do this winter? 

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) offers a wide range of Adult General Interest and Seniors Daytime classes through the Learn4Life program. These classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, stay active, and connect with others in your community. 

Led by expert instructors, Learn4Life offers courses in Arts, Business, Computers, Cooking, Crafts, Dance, Finance, Fitness, Languages, Music, Sports, Sewing, and much more! 

Registration is open now! Visit learn4life.ca to learn more.

Regent Park’s Wisdom and Wonder Workshop Series invites the community to "Intergenerational Storytelling," a special evening of connection and history-sharing.

Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (free meal at 5:30 p.m.)
Location: 230 Sackville Street, 9th-floor meeting room

Event Highlights:

• Keynote speakers will present the history of Regent Park.
• Seniors and youth will share their personal "Real Regent Park Stories."
• A Q&A session will provide a chance to learn more about Regent Park’s legacy and community.

• Raffle draw at the event’s conclusion.
• Free childminding available upon request.

For registration, click here. For general inquiries, contact Leonard Swartz at 416-845-5994 or [email protected].

Toronto Community Housing invites women and young females to the I Am Thriving networking event, focused on business development and professional growth.

Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: 150 River Street, Toronto, ON

Event Details:

• An inspiring evening dedicated to supporting women in achieving their career goals.
• Light refreshments and prizes provided.

To register, click here. For questions, contact Ameera McIntosh at [email protected] or call 416-771-7054.

Regent Park Social Development Plan invites the community to their upcoming Stakeholders Meeting to discuss fostering community connections and planning the future of Regent Park.

Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Location: World Urban Pavilion, 660 Dundas St E, 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON, M5A 2C1

Topics of Discussion:

• Building a Connected Community: Updates on initiatives to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion.
• Collaborating for Change: Insights on creating a supportive space for all.
• Progress and Challenges Unveiled: Updates from working groups and committees.
• Your Voice Matters: Share feedback for the next phase of the SDP.
• Shape Our Future Together: Help plan a stronger, more inclusive Regent Park.

For more information, visit regentparksocial.org or email [email protected]. Contact 437-247-6799 for inquiries.

The Regent Park Film Festival invites the community to enjoy a lineup of films, discussions, and events. This free, accessible festival takes place from November 28 to December 1, 2024, at Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St. E, Toronto.

Festival Highlights:

• Thursday, Nov 28
  • Opening Night Party – 6:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)
  • Boxcutter – 7:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    A gripping story about a young aspiring rapper in Regent Park.
• Friday, Nov 29
  • Village Keeper – 9:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    A tale about family, identity, and community housing.
• Saturday, Nov 30
  • Palestine & Censorship in the Arts – 7:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)
    A panel exploring the intersection of arts and activism.
• Sunday, Dec 1
  • Radiant Visions: In Conversation with Alicia K. Harris – 4:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    Join filmmaker Alicia K. Harris in a discussion on creativity and representation.
  • Free Community Breakfast – 10:00 a.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)

Special Events:

• Industry Meet & Greet – Saturday, Nov 30 & Sunday, Dec 1, 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)

For the full program and free tickets, visit rpff.ca/2024.

Throughout November, Regent Park will host a series of Listening Sessions to provide a safe and inclusive space for community members to share ideas on fostering a vibrant, connected neighbourhood. These discussions will explore ways to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion, with all voices welcomed to help shape the future of Regent Park.

Listening Session Dates & Locations:

• November 8, 2024: Grassroots Organizations – 150 River Street
• November 22, 2024: Open to All – Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
• November 26, 2024: Youth – Dixon Hall, 51 Wyatt Ave

For more details and to participate, sign up here.

Come cheer on Robert McGlashan as he completes his final open water swim to raise funds for mental health awareness.

Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Location: Cherry Beach, Toronto

Robert, a Toronto-based lawyer and internationally recognized swimmer, will be swimming 35 kilometers across 3 countries to raise $35,000 for mental health initiatives. Reeves Richarz LLP will match donations up to $10,000.

For more details and to support the cause, visit SwimForChange.ca and ReevesRicharz.com.

The Good Food Market invites the community to The Little Trinity Christmas Market—a festive market with purpose, supporting Good Shepherd Ministries.

Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Time: 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Location: 425 King Street East, Toronto

Event Highlights:

• Christmas shopping with handcrafted items and baked goods.
• Live music featuring Christmas jazz by Juno-nominated pianist Ewen Farncombe.
• Free hot chocolate, goodies, and fresh fruits and veggies from GFM.
• Opportunities to donate.

All proceeds support Good Shepherd Ministries. Join in for a meaningful holiday experience!

Celebrate the season at the Holiday Tree Lighting at Riverdale Farm! Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, carolers, crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate.

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Tree lighting at 7:00 p.m.; gates close at 8:00 p.m.)
Location: Riverdale Farm, 201 Winchester St, Toronto, ON

Bring family and friends to enjoy the holiday magic in a beautiful farm setting. For more information, call 416-392-6794.

The Cabbagetown BIA invites you to Holiday in the Patch, a festive celebration honoring the people and businesses of Cabbagetown. This family-friendly event will feature caroling, live music, photos with Santa, and plenty of holiday fun!

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: Event runs throughout the day

Volunteer Call: Cabbagetown BIA is seeking volunteers to help make this event a success! There are three shifts available:

• Set-up Support: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
• Activity Support: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• All Day Support: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Meet new friends and connect with the community
• Gain valuable work experience and enhance your resume
• Support local businesses
• Complete high school community service hours
• Have fun in a festive atmosphere!

Deadline to Sign Up: Thursday, November 28, 2024
To volunteer, please sign up here. For updates, follow @CabbagetownBIA on social media.

The Town of York Historical Society and Toronto's First Post Office invite you to their Annual Holiday Open House—a festive, family-friendly event!

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EST
Location: Toronto's First Post Office, 260 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 1N1

Event Highlights:

• Write holiday letters or postcards, including letters to Santa!
• Design your own Christmas postcard and enjoy holiday crafts (while supplies last).
• Seasonal treats will be available for all ages.

Admission: Entry by donation.

All are welcome to drop in and enjoy the holiday spirit at this historic venue!

The Children's Book Bank on Sherbourne invites children aged 4-12 to STEAM & Story Time, a free program featuring engaging story sessions and hands-on STEAM activities.

Program Details:

• When: Every Wednesday, from September 25 to December 18, 2024
• Time: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m.
• Where: 561 Sherbourne St., Level P3, Toronto, ON M4X 0A1

Families are welcome, and no registration is required. Plus, each child receives a free book with every visit!

For more information, contact 416-925-1230 or visit childrensbookbank.com.

Abeena Samm and Recognize Your Face Market Ministry Place invite the community to the 15th Annual Socks Drive at their "Bean Stock Sock Hop" event. Join for an evening of music and support for those in need.

Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; Showtime from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2B7

For more information, visit recognizeyourface.com.

Toronto Housing invites youth ages 7-18 to join the After School Homework Club for additional learning support from York University tutors.

Date: Thursdays, September 12, 2024, to May 2025
Time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Saturdays online, time TBD)
Location: 50 Regent Blvd, Ground Floor Recreation

Details:

• Open to youth aged 7 to 18.
• Limited spaces are available.

To register, email Felicia Whyte at [email protected].

Dear Emma,

I have to be honest - as someone who believes in justice and equity, it has been a really hard week in politics.

Many people are feeling let down, scared, and angry about the results of the American election. I am too. Electing a Democrat president would not have solved everything. Progressive Americans still would have had to a lot of organizing to empower communities. But that challenge would have been smaller and less difficult than it is now.

We also can’t get smug or complacent just because we are Canadians. Populist politicians and far-right groups are funding and operating in plain sight. The possibility of Pollievere as our next Prime Minister alarms me. The possibility of Ford winning a third term should alarm all of us. To turn these trends around, you and I will need to organize, talk to our families and neighbours, and get everyone out to vote at election time. 

One of the best ways to flex your political power and combat feelings of hopelessness is to get involved with local organizing. I am out knocking on doors three times a week and would love to have you join me! It is one of the best ways to meet your neighbours, keep your finger on the political pulse, and spread the word about progressive causes – plus its a ton of fun! 

We are also looking for apartment and condo residents to sign up with us as building captains! Building captains are the head organizers for the NDP in their specific buildings, speaking to neighbours about issues that matter, keeping my office informed about any concerns in the building, and assisting with building canvasses. Becoming a building captain is a great way to be involved in a hyper-local way!

This week Ford conservatives were back at it with their insider deals and lack of transparency. They fast-tracked three of their bills by using time allocation motions, a legislative procedure that allows them to shorten debate times and skip the committee process. This allows them to escape almost all public accountability and quickly pass controversial bills like the one limiting the ability of cities to install new bike lanes and empowering the Ford government to rip out existing ones. Time allocation motions are supposed to be for emergencies so that critical funding and legal changes can be acted on quickly when a delay would cause harm. But this government loves to use them willy-nilly so that they can pass controversial legislation without giving the public much of a chance to learn about it, let alone submit their comments and concerns. 

On top of their legislative games, more news also came out about the Premier’s former chief of staff and lead Greenbelt scandal negotiator, Ryan Amato. Tenacious journalists have recently revealed that Mr. Amato also worked on the Bradford Bypass and Highway 413 projects. However, he did most of that work through his personal email address, so we don’t know what those communications were or who they were with. He has been asked twice by the Integrity Commissioner to turn over his emails, but so far has not complied. And since he did not use a government email address, the emails can’t be accessed through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, though the Toronto Star did try. Missing documents, a lack of clear process, and clouds of mystery are a trend in Ryan Amato’s work. Multiple FOI requests turned up less than ten documents about Highway 413 connected to Mr. Amato. However, these issues don’t seem to be unique to Mr. Amato, who told the Integrity Commissioner that senior bureaucrats created protocols that purposefully resulted in “not a lot of document creation.”

The government should not be able to operate like this. It reminds me of the Liberal gas plant scandals. At the bare minimum, we deserve transparency and clear processes when our elected officials and their staff embark upon billion-dollar infrastructure projects. It is infuriating that we are not getting even that.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Opposition Day Motion: Homes Ontario
• Survivors Deserve Justice, Not Cuts
• Remembering Murray Sinclair
• Victory in Don Valley West
• Street Haven’s Walking Home Walkathon
• Dixon Hall’s Music For Life Gala
• Ford Sat on CAS Crisis Report for Over A Year
• This Week’s Meetings
• This Week’s Headlines
• Upcoming Community Events

While the Ford government is focused on helping out their developer friends get richer, Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP used our Opposition Day Motion slot to move forward the Ontario NDP’s plan to get the government back into the business of building truly affordable homes in the neighbourhoods people want to live in. 

I am incredibly proud of our Homes Ontario plan, which will be the most ambitious home-building program that the province has seen in generations. Our all-hands-on-deck approach will bring the government, non-profits, co-ops, developers to the table so we can double the supply of affordable non-market homes, get people housed faster and create good, sustainable union jobs in the process. 

But the government voted the motion down. This is unsurprising since Ford and his PCs have a track record of failing on housing. They have wasted the last six years ignoring expert advice, and despite their corner-cutting policies, housing starts are down.

The only thing this government has achieved on the housing file is worsening encampments and rising homelessness in every single community in our province.

Ontario could be so much more, it’s time for a government that brings bold, ambitious solutions for Ontario’s generational housing crisis. 

Click here to support the NDP’s Homes Ontario plan!

Last week I told you all about the Ford government legislating a $500 million or 9% cut to Ontario’s justice system. This week, I asked the Premier why he would make such a callous cut when survivors of intimate partner violence have had their cases routinely thrown out. Accused rapists and murderers are walking free without a trial, no matter the quality of the evidence against them. You can watch me ask this question here. 

We need to urgently declare IPV an epidemic and fund supports for survivors, including investing in our justice system to speed up legal processes.

This week we lost a giant. Senator Murray Sinclair was an Indigenous hero, who spent his life working for justice for residential school survivors, their families, and the ones who never came home. He chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, creating a space for Indigenous people to share their experiences and move towards a more just and caring Canada for all who live here. 

The best way to honour Murray Sinclair’s legacy is to continue his work - learn the truth and work toward true reconciliation and a nation-to-nation relationship between Indigenous people and settlers in Canada. 

Ken Coates and Karen Restoule wrote a beautiful reflection on Murray Sinclair’s impact on our society for The Star. I encourage you to read it here. 

On Monday, Rachel Chernos Lin, former TDSB trustee and chair of the TDSB board, was elected as the City Councillor for Don Valley West in a by-election, decisively defeating far-right agitator Anthony Feury. Her victory was critical to maintaining the progressive balance at City Hall. If Feury had won, it would have been much more difficult for Mayor Olivia Chow to pass her agenda, so I am very pleased to have supported Councillor Chernos Lin. I am excited to see how she makes the position her own, stands up for her constituents, and champions progressive values.

This weekend I was so proud to join the Walking Home Walkathon with Street Haven at the Crossroads again this year! Street Haven continues to be a crucial support for women facing homelessness and a strong advocate for lasting solutions. Street Haven has been an invaluable collaborator of mine for the past several years, and I look forward to partnering with them for years to come to platform the issue of homelessness among women at the province.

MPP Wong-Tam with Dixon Hall Executive Director Mina Mawani and Street Haven Executive Director Sui Mee Cheng

It was a joy to attend Dixon Hall’s Music for Life Gala this past Tuesday. Dixon Hall’s Music School is more than just a place to learn an instrument — it’s a life-changing experience for children in Toronto Centre. Through nurturing relationships and the transformative power of music, they are helping young people build confidence and a sense of belonging. The impact these programs have on our community is priceless. You can learn more about these programs here.

New reports revealed this week that last year – long before the report was made public - the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services knew that vulnerable children were being placed in hotels, Airbnbs, and even CAS offices due to a lack of suitable placements in the community.

This government has had this report for over a year and continued to let the crisis grow. In that year, children have been displaced, and some have died. This is entirely unacceptable behaviour from this government. Why has it taken over a year for this government to take notice?

An audit is not going to make one child safer tonight. It will not put a permanent roof over even one child’s head. The real question is, what will this government do to protect vulnerable children today and stop leaving kids behind?

MPP Wong-Tam with representatives of the Nurse Practitioner Association of Ontario

This week I met with: 

• Association of Consulting Engineering Companies
• PeerWorks
• Economic Developers Council of Ontario
• Nurse Practitioner Association of Ontario
• Canadian Cancer Society
• Human Rights Legal Support Centre
• Canadian Civil Liberties Association

Workers owed $60M in unpaid wages Ontario failed to collect since 2017

Content Warning: Descriptions of extreme violence: Girl, 16, recovering in Ottawa hospital after vicious attack

When their landlord put their Hamilton building up for sale, these tenants worked to buy it themselves

Dundas-Sherbourne Neighbourhood Revitalization Plan – City of Toronto

Sweeping rent strike in York South-Weston comes to an end after both sides reach settlement

4 things about Ontario youth-led climate case

Baobab Arts is hosting its 5th edition of Sommet/Mandingue/Summit: West African Dance & Drum Festival in Regent Park!

Experience a vibrant mix of dance and percussion workshops, a film screening, cultural demonstrations, and an electrifying performance showcase.

Dates: Friday, November 8, 2024 - Sunday, November 10, 2024

Location: Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas St. E)

For more info and event times, click here.

Many events are free, but Regent Park residents can attend paid events for free using the promo code “RegentPark.”

Are you interested in art? Toronto Community Housing and ArtHeart invite you to participate in designing and creating a mural for the ground floor of the new building at 175 Oak Street.

Workshop dates and times:

• Saturday, November 9, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
  • Location: 150 River St.
• Thursday, November 14, 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
  • Location: 246 Sackville Ave.

For more information, contact [email protected] or (416) 995-8270.

The City of Toronto is hosting their annual TSNS Community Networks Summit on Saturday, November 9, 2024!

The TSNS Community Networks Summit will offer space for networking, participation in interactive workshops, and connect with other members of TSNS Community Networks. Please register online here to attend.

The Cabbagetown BIA invites the community to its Annual Cabbagetown Remembrance Day Ceremony on Monday, November 11, 2024, starting at 10:15 a.m. This event reflects on the importance of peace and justice worldwide. A moment of silence will be observed at 11:00 a.m. at the east corner of Carlton Street and Parliament Street in Cabbagetown, Toronto.

For more details, click here.

Looking for something fun to do this winter? 

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) offers a wide range of Adult General Interest and Seniors Daytime classes through the Learn4Life program. These classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, stay active, and connect with others in your community. 

Led by expert instructors, Learn4Life offers courses in Arts, Business, Computers, Cooking, Crafts, Dance, Finance, Fitness, Languages, Music, Sports, Sewing, and much more! 

Registration opens on November 13th. Visit learn4life.ca to learn more.

The Children's Book Bank on Sherbourne invites children aged 4-12 to STEAM & Story Time, a free program featuring engaging story sessions and hands-on STEAM activities.

Program Details:

• When: Every Wednesday, from September 25 to December 18, 2024
• Time: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m.
• Where: 561 Sherbourne St., Level P3, Toronto, ON M4X 0A1

Families are welcome, and no registration is required. Plus, each child receives a free book with every visit!

For more information, contact 416-925-1230 or visit childrensbookbank.com.

The Ontario Legislative Assembly is inviting students in Grades 7 and 8 to apply for its Legislative Page Program. This unique opportunity allows approximately 150 high-achieving students to gain hands-on experience in government operations, meet key parliamentary figures, and develop leadership skills. The program is designed for students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership within their schools and communities.

The application periods are April 15 to June 15 and September 15 to November 15. Click here for more information and how to apply.

Neighbourhood Information Post is excited to invite you to the launch of the Moss Park Community Cookbook to sample delicious dishes featured in the cookbook. Hear personal stories behind the recipes, and enter a raffle!

Location: Toronto Public Library (Parliament Street Branch), 269 Gerrard Street East, 2nd Floor.

Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024

Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

For more information, contact Rasana at 416-924-2543 x 0 or email [email protected].

Throughout November, Regent Park will host a series of Listening Sessions to provide a safe and inclusive space for community members to share ideas on fostering a vibrant, connected neighbourhood. These discussions will explore ways to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion, with all voices welcomed to help shape the future of Regent Park.

Listening Session Dates & Locations:

• November 8, 2024: Grassroots Organizations – 150 River Street
• November 22, 2024: Open to All – Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
• November 26, 2024: Youth – Dixon Hall, 51 Wyatt Ave

For more details and to participate, sign up here.

Dear Emma,

On Tuesday, Doug Ford’s conservative government unveiled its disappointing Fall Economic Statement, also known as a Mini-Budget. This document sets the government’s priorities for the next few months and provides an update on government spending. 

Ontarians deserve a government that uses their tax dollars responsibly to make life easier, but Ford continues to favour his insider friends. 

To say that the mini-budget was full of callous cuts and cheap shots is an understatement. It failed to meet the moment or develop a real fiscal plan to support Ontarians in accessing the basics - housing, healthcare, education, and affordability. But Ford wants you to forget about the hollowing out of Ontario’s key public services when you get a $200 vote-buying cheque in the mail in time for his expected snap Spring election. 

Yesterday, I shared my thoughts about the mini-budget in the Legislature and I didn’t hold back. You can watch my entire speech here. 

I am not easily shocked by Ford’s continued inept handling of provincial priorities, but I needed to sit down when I saw that this government cut Ontario’s courts and justice budget by half a billion dollars, translating to a 9% slash. These cuts are happening while wait times in the courts and tribunals are unacceptably high, and serious criminal charges are being dropped due to unconstitutional delays in getting a case to trial.

This government is bragging about a billion in healthcare spending, which is not a new investment in our healthcare. The government will spend that money reimbursing nurses and other healthcare workers for the wages that the government stole from them through the unconstitutional Bill 124. 

There was also nothing to specifically support people on social assistance who are living in legislated poverty. On Monday, I asked the government to double ODSP rates, currently at $1308 per month, to give people with physically limiting disabilities a fighting chance at a good life but was met with another non-answer. 

The mini-budget does not include new money to build affordable, non-profit, co-op, or community housing. Even when we look at Ford’s record on market housing, housing starts are down again. This year, Ford is short 43,7000 homes and is moving further away from the government’s 10-year housing target. Experts are speaking out and predict that Ford will not meet his housing goals and, with that, the dire housing needs of Ontarians. This is shameful, especially as we see encampments in our communities grow, families squeezed into one-bedroom apartments, and young adults prevented from living independently because they can’t afford to move out from their parents’ basement. 

The budget also doesn’t include any funding for supportive housing, one of the best strategies to end chronic homelessness, ease pressures on our emergency rooms, and support people to tackle their addictions. The University Health Network has opened a new 51-bed supportive housing facility for homeless folks who are their most frequent emergency room visitors. Shamefully, they are doing this without the provincial government's support because they did not come to the table with any long-term funding commitment. This project is a collaboration between the Federal government, the City of Toronto, UHN, and Fred Victor, with the Ontario government noticeably absent. I asked Ford why he did not support this critical project this week and got the usual non-answer. 

If you are as fired up about this lacklustre mini-budget as I am, I would love you to come out and meet with me. Let’s canvass together to bring our communities the government they deserve - one that will prioritize real people over Ford insiders. Canvassing is a fun way to meet your neighbours, get your steps in, and help organize stronger communities. I canvass every Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday and would love to have you join me. Sign up for a canvass shift by clicking the button below. 

We must also run a fully funded campaign in Toronto Centre to defeat Ford. But we can’t do that without your generous support. Your donation will go a long way to securing a progressive victory in Toronto Centre, and it qualifies for a generous tax rebate.

I hope you enjoyed yesterday's Halloween and Diwali celebrations with your loved ones. If you have a pumpkin that you want to give a proper send-off, head out to one of the two fabulous pumpkin parades happening tonight, one in Cabbagetown and the other in Corktown. Light up the parks with your amazing pumpkin creations!

Our family got into character with a popular children’s show, Dino Busters. We spent a playful evening trick-or-treating with little friends in Cabbagetown. Thank you to Farrah, who created this fun video calling on mean ol’ Fordasaurus to leave children’s bike lanes alone in Toronto.

Thank you to everyone who ghouled up their homes with spooky decorations, passed out sweet treats, got dressed in costumes, and then stayed up late to galavant on Church Street with the Church-Wellesley Village BIA, who again threw the best and biggest Halloween street party in the country!

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Ford Votes Against Universal Mental Health Coverage
• Conservatives Kill Motion to Declare IPV an Epidemic
• Everyone is Eligible for Updated COVID and flu shots
• Homeless Connect Toronto
• New Allan Gardens Farmers Market
• Regent Park Funfest
• Toronto Centre Legislative Page Isabella
• NDP Plan to Tackle School Violence
• NDP Tables Motion to Eliminate Hospital Parking Fees
• This Week’s QP Meetings
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

On Monday, I spoke in the Legislature about the critical need for comprehensive universal mental healthcare coverage in our communities. You can watch my speech here. I was speaking in favour of an Ontario NDP Opposition Day Motion that proposed delivering mental health care, including counselling and psychotherapy, at no cost to everyone across the province. 

But Ford and his PCs voted against the motion, and it failed. Do the PCs not see the mental health crisis on our streets?

Unfortunately, the Liberal record on mental healthcare is not much better. The previous Liberal government had 15 years to implement universal mental healthcare, but instead, they let people languish. Under the Liberal government, waitlists for children to access mental health services have ballooned to 12,000 across the province, and wait times have gone up to 18 months.

The Liberals also failed to act on the 2010 recommendations of the all-party committee on mental health and addiction services, including the recommendation to create one umbrella organization to coordinate all mental health and addiction services. The evidence was there, but they lacked the political will.

I can only imagine what benefits we would be reaping today if Ontario had started building a robust, publicly funded mental healthcare system 20 years ago. 

Our streets would be safer, our courts would run more smoothly, and our young people would thrive. We would be realizing the benefits of this system in every corner of our communities. 

First thing on Monday morning, my wonderful colleague, MPP Peggy Sattler, asked for Unanimous Consent in the Legislature to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic in Ontario. This would have accomplished what my bill, Bill 173, set out to do. This bill has been stuck in committee all summer, and I am working hard to pull it out and get the declaration done. 

But Ford and his PCs squashed our efforts on Monday, voting against it and again turning their back on survivors and advocates across Ontario by refusing to join the 95 Ontario municipalities who have already made the declaration. 

I am not giving up and will continue to update you on this work.

As of October 28, 2024, all individuals aged six months and older in Toronto, Ontario, are eligible to receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine. This includes the Moderna KP.2 vaccine for those six months and older and the Pfizer KP.2 vaccine for those 12 years and older. You can find where you can get the new shot by clicking here. It's recommended to receive the updated vaccine this fall/winter to protect yourself and your loved ones against circulating strains. Medical advice remains to get infected as few times as possible. A growing body of medical research shows that COVID-19 infection can lead to or worsen migraine, lung disease, autoimmune disease and chronic kidney disease. The updated COVID-19 shot will reduce your risk. Most pharmacies now offer you flu shots at the same time. Getting vaccinated is an easy way to protect yourself and your loved ones from illness.

Navigating homelessness is tough, but Homeless Connect Toronto makes a remarkable impact. Now in its 11th year, they bring community and city service providers together to create a one-stop destination for free services, including barbers, dentists, lawyers, and more. It was a treat to attend this annual event this past Saturday and witness again the positive difference it is making in people’s lives. 

Thank you to the volunteers, donors, and founder Melody Li for continuing this vital lifeline for our most vulnerable community members.

I was thrilled to visit the first-ever Allan Gardens Farmers’ Market this weekend! Friends of Allan Gardens worked hard to organize this event and bring healthy local food to our community. I have been supporting the group for years and want to thank co-founder Michael McClelland, the board, staff, and all the volunteers for this new endeavour to address food insecurity in our city. 

The farmers market will run every Saturday from 10 AM - 2 PM until April 2025. 

I can’t wait to see neighbours at future markets and continue to enjoy delicious local food!

Regent Park knows how to throw a Funfest! This past weekend's fall gathering brought our community together for pumpkin carving, cookie decorating, and transforming the Big Park into a pumpkin patch. It was a joy to celebrate the season with so many neighbours. I am very grateful to the Friends of Regent Park and all of the other event sponsors for executing such a perfect autumnal celebration.

This week, I got to know Isabella, an amazing St James Town resident and one of our current Legislative Pages. Her loving mom, Laura, watched from the public gallery when Isabella was Page Captain this week. Isabella did a superb job ensuring the chamber operations went smoothly with the other Pages. We enjoyed a lovely lunch together on Wednesday in the legislative dining room. Isabella is a top-notch grade 8 student and is making her way to high school next year. She’s definitely one to watch in the years ahead!

The Ontario Legislative Page Program is an excellent opportunity for students in grades 7 and 8 to learn more about their provincial government, develop their leadership skills, and meet other young people who share their interests. If you know a young person who would be a good fit for this program, please encourage them to apply here. Applications for the spring session are open now until November 15th!

School violence is a growing problem in many of our schools. Students are not receiving the support they need and are frustrated, lashing out at their teachers and education workers. This is unsafe for everyone involved and disrupts the vital learning happening in our classrooms. 

In response to the government’s complete inaction on this issue, NDP Education Critic Chandra Pasma and NDP Labour Critic Jamie West tabled a motion calling the government to immediately implement an Emergency Plan to End School Violence. I was proud to support them at a recent press conference and commit to doing everything I can to hold Ford to account on his failure to address this chronic issue.

The motion calls on the Ford government to implement an Emergency Safe Schools Plan immediately. This plan, developed in consultation with workers in the sector, includes:

• Funding to hire additional qualified staff and train them
• A sector-specific regulation for education under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• A permanent, tri-partite Provincial Health and Safety Working Group
• A single, province-wide online reporting system for violent incidents

This week, my colleague, Ontario NDP MPP Jill Andrew, tabled a motion calling for the province to eliminate hospital parking fees for healthcare workers, patients, and their families. In the GTA, the average cost of a monthly hospital parking pass is about $400. 

Nobody deserves to be stuck with thousands of dollars worth of bills for managing their health or visiting a sick loved one. As the MPP for Toronto Centre, which is home to numerous hospital facilities, I am extremely pleased to support this motion.

Now that the Legislature is back in session, I regularly meet with stakeholders and associations who come to Queen’s Park to share their priorities and proposed policy improvements with MPPs. 

I want to be transparent about how I spend my time and which groups I meet with, so I added this segment to the newsletter. I will not be disclosing constituent meetings to protect the privacy of those individuals, but any time I meet with an organization, I will endeavour to share it here so that you know what I am up to! 

Here are the groups I met with this week:

• Film Ontario
• Traditional Chinese Medicine Ontario
• Ontario Real Estate Association
• Ontario Book Publishers Organization
• Jamaican Opposition Leader Mr. Mark Golding and his delegation

Are some rents in Canada part of a price-fixing scheme?

Ontario plans to remove Toronto bike lanes on Bloor, Yonge, University

Intimate partner violence continues to rise in Peel Region

Sweeping rent strike in York South-Weston comes to an end after both sides reach settlement

Join fellow Corktowners this November 1, 6:30-8:30 PM as they celebrate Samhain in Corktown with a Pumpkin Parade at Sackville Playground. Put your costumes back on, and bring your carved pumpkins (or turnips) to give them one last chance to cast their warm glow over Corktown. And with the help of the City, they'll take care of the pumpkin clean-up afterward, so you don't have to.

Donations of non-perishable food items will also be collected for the Good Shepherd Ministry

Samhain (sow-win) is a Celtic spiritual tradition, which marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. It’s a time to celebrate the dead, the living and the community.

As Corktown’s early residents were largely Irish immigrants, these past residents would have likely brought with them their Samhain traditions, such as wearing costumes and ugly masks and carving root vegetables with candles placed inside to frighten away malevolent spirits. These traditions spread throughout North America and have remained a key part of our Halloween.

Street Haven's annual Walking Home Walkathon is coming up on November 3, 2024! Join me and the Street Health Team for this incredible cause!

This walkathon is more than just a 5K walk—it’s a powerful opportunity to make a direct impact in the lives of vulnerable women across Toronto. As winter approaches, the funds raised during this event are essential for supporting Street Haven’s mission to provide shelter, support, and critical services to women in need.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, November 3rd, 2024
• Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
• Starting Point: 87 Pembroke St., Toronto (Street Haven Shelter)
• Halfway Party: Allan Gardens (for refreshments and community celebration)
• Finish Line: Riverdale Farm
• Total Distance: 5K

Register to walk here! Can’t make it to the walk? You can still support by donating to Street Haven and directly contributing to the programs that make a difference in women’s lives.

The Children's Book Bank on Sherbourne invites children aged 4-12 to STEAM & Story Time, a free program featuring engaging story sessions and hands-on STEAM activities.

Program Details:

• When: Every Wednesday, from September 25 to December 18, 2024
• Time: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m.
• Where: 561 Sherbourne St., Level P3, Toronto, ON M4X 0A1

Families are welcome, and no registration is required. Plus, each child receives a free book with every visit!

For more information, contact 416-925-1230 or visit childrensbookbank.com.

The Doughnut Economics Collective Toronto (DECTO) is launching its kick-off event at the Centre for Social Innovation - Spadina, in partnership with Global Donut Days. This will take place on November 6 from 7 PM to 9 PM! The event will feature a cross-sector panel discussing the principles and applications of doughnut economics, entertainment from artists, and networking opportunities. Attendees will also enjoy free, freshly made doughnuts. Sign up here!

Throughout November, Regent Park will host a series of Listening Sessions to provide a safe and inclusive space for community members to share ideas on fostering a vibrant, connected neighbourhood. These discussions will explore ways to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion, with all voices welcomed to help shape the future of Regent Park.

Listening Session Dates & Locations:

• November 4, 2024: SDP – 150 River Street
• November 7, 2024: TCHC Tenants – Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
• November 8, 2024: Grassroots Organizations – 150 River Street
• November 22, 2024: Open to All – Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
• November 26, 2024: Youth – Dixon Hall, 51 Wyatt Ave

For more details and to participate, sign up here.

The Bloor Street East Neighbourhood Association (BENA) will hold its Annual General Meeting on November 5, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom.

Attendees will hear from local representatives, including:

• Toronto Centre: Kristyn Wong-Tam, MPP, and Chris Moise, Councillor
• University–Rosedale: Jessica Bell, MPP, and Dr. Dianne Saxe, Councillor

The agenda will also feature updates from community partners and the BENA President, with discussions about ongoing neighbourhood projects and redevelopment efforts.

How to Participate:

• Pre-registration required: Register here
• AGM materials and further information can be found at the BENA website, here.
• For questions or comments, email: [email protected]

After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email with meeting details.

Good To Be Good is hosting a free two-hour online workshop, Navigating the Tribulations of the Healthcare System, on Friday, November 22, 2024. This workshop focuses on helping women and gender-diverse individuals better understand the Canadian healthcare system and build self-advocacy skills when accessing healthcare services.

Participants will:

• Explore structural determinants of violence and healthcare, both past and present
• Learn how to navigate primary care, referrals, and mental health services
• Gain tools to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and understand their rights
• Connect with others facing similar challenges
• Receive inclusive, community-focused healthcare resources
• Get a free Lucky Iron Fish product

The session will be co-hosted with Joelle Forbes (MSW, RSW) from Hope Leads Mental Health Care. A Zoom link and additional details will be shared with participants a week before the event. Real-time closed captioning will be available, with additional accommodations offered as needed.

Sign-up Deadline: November 7, 2024 (limited to 30 participants)
Register here: Workshop Interest/Intake Form

For more information, contact Mecca at [email protected]. 

The City of Toronto is hosting their annual TSNS Community Networks Summit on Saturday, November 9, 2024!

The TSNS Community Networks Summit will offer space for networking, participation in interactive workshops, and connect with other members of TSNS Community Networks. Please register online here to attend. 

The Cabbagetown BIA invites the community to its Annual Cabbagetown Remembrance Day Ceremony on Monday, November 11, 2024, starting at 10:15 a.m. This event reflects on the importance of peace and justice worldwide. A moment of silence will be observed at 11:00 a.m. at the east corner of Carlton Street and Parliament Street in Cabbagetown, Toronto.

For more details, click here.

From October 29 - November 12, 2024 the Toronto Biennial of Art presents a unique benefit auction of 18 carefully curated work by leading artists featured in current and past editions of the Biennial. Art lovers and supporters are warmly invited to bid on works by Raven Chacon, Judy Chicago, Nicholas Galanin, Brian Jungen, Citra Sasmita, Dana Claxton, Rajni Perera, Caroline Monnet, Curtis Santiago, Hangama Amiri, Eric-Paul Riege, Luis Jacob, Jessie Oonark, Kite, and Morris Lum, and supporter Stephen Shore.

Support the Toronto Biennial of Art’s mission to make contemporary art accessible to everyone. All Biennial exhibitions, public programs, and learning experiences are offered free to the public.

A ten-week event every two years, the Biennial commissions artists to create new works for a city-wide exhibition in dialogue with Toronto’s diverse local contexts. Year-round public and learning programs bridge Biennials and invite intergenerational audiences to explore the ideas that inspire our events. Building upon past editions and offering new ways of seeing and listening, each Biennial connects people to spark meaningful dialogues and imagine new futures.

To learn more about the Toronto Biennial of Art, click here.

Bidding will be open exclusively on Artsy and will begin to close at 12:00pm EST on Tuesday, November 12th.

The Ontario Legislative Assembly is inviting students in Grades 7 and 8 to apply for its Legislative Page Program. This unique opportunity allows approximately 150 high-achieving students to gain hands-on experience in government operations, meet key parliamentary figures, and develop leadership skills. The program is designed for students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership within their schools and communities.

The application periods are April 15 to June 15, and September 15 to November 15. Click here for more information and how to apply.

Every Tuesday from October 2 to November 6, The Corner at 240 Wellesley Street East will host Make Art Speak Heart from 6 PM to 7:30 PM.

This opportunity is free for children ages 8 to 16. 

For more information please email [email protected] or call (416) 964-6657.

Dear friend,

If it wasn’t clear before this week that we are on the eve of an early provincial election, these past few days sealed the deal. 

While the Ontario NDP focuses on real solutions to the issues people struggle with every day, like finding an affordable and appropriate home, connecting with a family doctor, and putting food on the table, Ford and his PCs are trying to buy your votes. 

It is insulting that Ford thinks that he can buy Ontarians' votes with a $200 cheque and policies that put vulnerable road users and the most marginalized in our communities at risk. He also hopes that waving money in front of everyone’s faces will distract us from the fact that his government is being accused of criminal activity, fraud, and breach of integrity in more areas than I can list here (keep reading for more on all of this).

But this is nothing new. The Ford family has a long history of “the $20 handshake,” passing our cash to would-be voters. But now, as the Premier, Doug Ford has slashed healthcare spending, let our schools crumble, and do nothing while our court backlogs explode. Then, just before an election, he springs up and promises to spend over $3 billion in public funding to cut everyone in Ontario a cheque. It is cheap and shameful politics. 

But this upcoming Monday, the Legislature resumes. I am itching to get back there to take Doug Ford to task and highlight the positive and pragmatic solutions from the NDP. I would love to know your specific priorities and what you want to hear discussed in the Legislature. Please reply to this email to share your thoughts! 

We all know that Ford’s deal with the private Austrian company Therme to build a mega-spa at Ontario Place smells fishy. That is why this week, Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP submitted a complaint to the Office of the Integrity Commissioner calling for an investigation into the Therme mega-spa deal at Ontario Place. 

We decided to file this complaint after learning of evidence suggesting that Therme received preferential treatment from the Ford government when they awarded Therme the 95-year-long lease to build a luxury spa at Ontario Place. The complaint also requests that the Office of the Integrity Commissioner launch an investigation into the Minister of Infrastructure’s involvement in the deal.

Was the procurement process fair? Why is the government using taxpayer money to build Therme a parking lot after telling other bidders it would not consider proposals with publicly funded facilities? These are all questions I hope this investigation will answer. Billions of dollars, a cherished public asset, and public trust are at stake. 

I know that Marit Stiles and our Ontario NDP team will not rest until we know the truth about what happened with the Therme deal. I will continue to keep you updated.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Save Consumption & Treatment Services in Ontario
• Letter to Minister Piccini Regarding the OINP Backlog
• MWC Thanksgiving Meal Service
• Little West Coast Unveiling at Little Canada
• FORA’s Leadership Forum
• NDP Presses for Public Inquiry into Eglinton LRT
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

MPP Wong-Tam in the Queen's Park Media Studio with Sarah Greig, South Riverdale Community Health Centre; Lin Sallay, Street Health; Former Mayor of Toronto John Sewell; Reverend Angie Hocking; Dayn Kent, Moss Park OPS; Dr. Samantha Green; Matthew Kellway Director of Policy at RNAO, Tina Estwick, Supervisor at Kensington Market OPS; and Kelly White, Coordinator of Street Health OPS.

Yesterday morning, I joined healthcare workers and community advocates to speak about why Consumption and Treatment Services (sometimes called Safe Injection Sites) must remain where they are. It would be a huge mistake for our government to close them. You can watch the press conference here.

Eight Ontario residents die daily because of the overdose crisis. This humanitarian disaster, made worse by the homelessness crisis, is plaguing every municipality in Ontario. Consumption and Treatment Services are at the frontlines, offering stigma-free life-saving care and connecting people to the broader support and recovery services they need.

Ford’s decision to shut down 10 CTS sites is ideological, not backed by data or expert recommendations. Stigma will not make communities safer. Support will. People deserve the health care and housing they need to live safely, as well as a government that relies on evidence and empathy to make life-and-death policy decisions.

I was proud to join healthcare professionals, frontline workers, and community leaders to call on Ford to act now by:

1. Keeping the ten Supervised Consumption & Treatment sites open that are slated for closure, expand their service hours, and expand evidence-based treatment beds, services, and medical detox facilities.
2. Reopening and providing funding for sites closed by the Government (Barrie, Sudbury, Timmins, Windsor)
3. Expediting the approval process for all outstanding Supervised Consumption & Treatment site applications
4. Providing Ontarians guaranteed access to treatment and recovery services within 24 hours of their request, including detox and treatment beds.

Much more must be done to ensure everyone feels safe in our neighbourhoods. Closing these sites is not a piece of that puzzle. Losing these sites only pushes people into alleyways, bathrooms, and parks, where they are more likely to die and less likely to access treatment. That is the worst possible outcome and one that I will fight against until the bitter end.

MPP Wong-Tam's letter to Minister Piccini

This week, I wrote a letter to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, David Piccini, to share with him that residents of Toronto Centre have been waiting well past the average processing times for PR status through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. 

The people waiting are students, newcomers, and business owners contributing and building lives here in Toronto Centre. These exasperated wait times have left them in high-stress uncertainty, unable to plan for the future. Many of them have come to my office at the end of their rope, stressed about their immigration status, and asking for help. My staff and I have reached out to the Ministry countless times but received no meaningful assistance. 

It is time for Minister Piccini to get to work and share his plans to address the backlog, ensure these residents can continue contributing to Ontario, and achieve their goal of building a good life here.  You can read the entire letter here. 

MPP Wong-Tam with a fellow volunteer at the MWC Thanksgiving meal.

I was so grateful to join Muslim Welfare Canada volunteers and community leaders for their Thanksgiving service at 40 Oak this past Sunday. It has been an incredibly difficult year, and the community went out of their way to make this meal special for everyone who attended, including me. 

Congratulations to MWC on their 10th Anniversary in Regent Park!

MPP Wong-Tam enjoying the sights at the opening of Little West Coast.

It was my joy to attend the unveiling of Little West Coast, the newest addition to Little Canada yesterday! If you have not experienced the tiny wonders on display, this is a great time to explore iconic sites like Stanley Park, Gastown, and Chinatown in a unique way without leaving the city. See for yourself at 10 Dundas Street East!

MPP Wong-Tam with FORA staff, congratulating them on their receipt of an OTF grant.

I had a wonderful time at FORA: Network for Change’s Leadership Forum today, where they also celebrated their receipt of an Ontario Trillium grant. It is inspiring to see young women leaders at the beginning of their journeys and to support organizations that give them the tools and support they need to thrive as they bring their ideas to life. 

I am echoing my colleague, MPP Jill Andrew, who joined many groups this week in calling for a public inquiry into the Eglinton-Crosstown LRT delay after City Hall passed a motion for a provincial inquiry. The Ontario NDP first called for a public inquiry into the project in 2022 and is renewing the calls as the project is delayed yet another year. 

The LRT was supposed to open in 2021. Three years later, we have no idea when riders will be welcomed aboard these trains. 

We have waited long enough. Minister after minister, government after government, have refused to take responsibility for this project. Despite delays, ballooning costs, and lawsuits, Ford and his politicians refuse to hold Metrolinx accountable for this project. Instead, they have rewarded their CEO handsomely with a million-dollar salary for clearly failing to get this project on track. Someone needs to answer for this mess, beyond the two senior leaders who were let go this week. We need a public inquiry to get the answers that Ontarians have been asking for a decade.

Ford doubles down on 'remove and replace' when it comes to existing bike lanes 

Ontario hospitals can't handle projected 72% increase in chronic illness: study

Hidden camera, internal memo reveal how unqualified truck drivers are getting onto Canada's roads

Pilot program changing the lives of Ontario families with autistic children

Coroner sets date for inquest into 6 deaths at Hamilton-Wentworth Detention Centre

Tobacco giants would pay out $32.5B to provinces, smokers in 'historic' proposed deal

Riverdale Farm is hosting their Halloween Boo Barn this weekend!

Dates: Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20
Time: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Location: Riverdale Farm (201 Winchester St.)

There will be pumpkin carving (a suggested $5 donation per person), face painting, and Halloween fun for all! 

Admission is FREE

The Lost & Found Gallery and the Corktown RBA invites the community to a fun and creative mask-making workshop, led by Danielle Reygel. Participants will learn to craft unique and spooky paper-mâché masks, just in time for Samhain.

• Date: October 19
• Time: 1 PM – 4 PM
• Location: The Lost & Found Gallery, 420 Queen St E
• Age: Open to participants aged 12 and up, including adults
• Tickets: $15 (RSVP required; space is limited)
• RSVP: [email protected]

 Make a mask and wear it to the Samhain in Corktown Pumpkin Parade on Nov. 1!

 At the mask workshop  will raffle off two tickets to Dublin By Lamplight at the Alumnae Theatre will be raffled off! 

Click here to learn more about the traditions of Samhain.

Dates: October 16-27, 2024
Venue: Buddies in Bad Times Chamber, 12 Alexander Street, Toronto

CIVILIZED is a one-act play that tackles Canada’s troubling history with Indian Residential Schools through a biting, comedic lens. Set in 1907, the play features William Blank, a character representing Canadian bureaucrats who justified the ongoing harm caused by these schools. Played by Métis actor John D. Huston, Blank uses charm, wit, and a touch of trickster energy to convince the audience that the ends justified the means.

Inspired by historical reports, including Dr. Peter Bryce’s damning findings about the deadly conditions in these schools, CIVILIZED combines poetry, song, and humour to challenge audiences to reflect on the cost of being "civilized."

Directed by Paul Hopkins and designed by 2Spirit multi-media artist Jay Havens, the play offers a unique mix of research, theatricality, and social commentary.

Tickets: Available starting September 18, 2024
Box Office: Up to 20% of proceeds will support Kawenni/Gaweni School. For more information, visit kgschool.ca.

Learn more and get tickets here.

The Friends of Regent Park invite everyone to join them for their annual October Funfest on Saturday, October 26, 2024. This exciting event will take place from 1 PM to 3 PM at The Big Park at 620 Dundas St East, near the Bake Oven.

Celebrate the fall season with pumpkin carving, cookie decorating, music and dancing, delicious apple crisp, and treat bags. 

The Canary District Animal Hospital is hosting free pet portraits to celebrate fall while supporting the Farley Foundation. Participants will receive a complimentary digital photo, and those who make a donation will receive a printed portrait to cherish.

• Date: Sunday, October 27
• Time: 1 PM – 4 PM
• Location: Canary District Animal Hospital, 467 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5A 0J2

This event, supported by Dogs of Corktown, offers a wonderful way to capture special moments with pets while contributing to a meaningful cause. 🎃

Join the Dogs of Corktown for their annual Dog Costume Parade in Corktown Common! 

When: After 5 PM, October 31

Where: Corktown Common Park

Join fellow Corktowners this November 1, 6:30-8:30 PM as they celebrate Samhain in Corktown with a Pumpkin Parade at Sackville Playground. Put your costumes back on, and bring your carved pumpkins (or turnips) to give them one last chance to cast their warm glow over Corktown. And with the help of the City, they'll take care of the pumpkin clean-up afterward, so you don't have to.

Donations of non-perishable food items will also be collected for the Good Shepherd Ministry

Samhain (sow-win) is a Celtic spiritual tradition, which marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. It’s a time to celebrate the dead, the living and the community.

As Corktown’s early residents were largely Irish immigrants, these past residents would have likely brought with them their Samhain traditions, such as wearing costumes and ugly masks and carving root vegetables with candles placed inside to frighten away malevolent spirits. These traditions spread throughout North America and have remained a key part of our Halloween.

The City of Toronto is hosting their annual TSNS Community Networks Summit on Saturday, November 9, 2024!

The TSNS Community Networks Summit will offer space for networking, participation in interactive workshops, and connect with other members of TSNS Community Networks. Please register online here to attend.

The Ontario Legislative Assembly is inviting students in Grades 7 and 8 to apply for its Legislative Page Program. This unique opportunity allows approximately 150 high-achieving students to gain hands-on experience in government operations, meet key parliamentary figures, and develop leadership skills. The program is designed for students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership within their schools and communities.

The application periods are April 15 to June 15, and September 15 to November 15. Click here for more information and how to apply.

Every Tuesday from October 2 to November 6, The Corner at 240 Wellesley Street East will host Make Art Speak Heart from 6 PM to 7:30 PM.

This opportunity is free for children ages 8 to 16. 

For more information please email [email protected] or call (416) 964-6657.

On October 27, Homeless Connect Toronto will be hosting it's 11th Annual One-Stop-Shop event! It  will take place at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, located at 50 Carlton Street. For over a decade, Homeless Connect Toronto has been dedicated to organizing one-stop-shop events that connect individuals impacted by homelessness with essential support services. 

This year’s event will offer a range of vital services to Torontonians affected by homelessness, including housing and employment support, financial assistance, hearing and eye assessments, haircuts, dental care, foot care, and many more. All services will be provided free of charge in collaboration with local community agencies and businesses. Live music and a warm meal is also provided at the event.

Dear friend,

Yesterday was a momentous day in Canadian history. NDP Pharmacare moved one step closer to becoming a reality in our country. Thanks to the tireless work of the Federal NDP, their pharmacare bill officially passed through the Senate last night. The initial rollout of this bill, with more to come, means that Canadians not covered by a Group Benefits Plan will soon have access to free birth control and diabetes medication through their provincial health plans.

Provinces just need to sign on to the plan to provide this benefit to their population. The details of that process should be made public soon. Rest assured that the Ontario NDP caucus and I will hold the Ford government accountable so qualified Ontarians receive this benefit promptly as their doctors prescribe. British Columbia has already signed a memorandum of understanding with the federal government to implement the program, and most other provinces can be signed on by the spring. 

This bill also lays the foundation for a future national pharmacare plan that would include bulk buying of medications by the federal government on behalf of Canadians, allowing them to negotiate lower bulk prices. I am so proud of the Federal NDP’s work on this file and their commitment to making life more affordable for everyday people. I am so excited to bring you more updates about pharmacare as it progresses.

Crews removing trees at Ontario Place’s West Island. - Nick Lachance, Toronto Star

This week my heart broke, along with the hearts of nature lovers across Ontario, as we saw 865 trees broken, bulldozed, and killed at Ontario Place. The reckless clearcutting images are hard to look at. 

Hundreds of mature trees, specifically planted to create a rich habitat for native animals and plant life to thrive, have been destroyed. The corrupt Ford government did not provide any public notice for this work. They claim that the trees will be replaced, including a 6-to-1 replacement ratio for mature trees. Still, we all know that an important parcel of waterfront land with treelings, all planted at the same time, is no replacement for a thriving urban forest, full of beautiful mature trees. As I shared on the day the destruction happened, there is a Chinese proverb I often think of: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.” Our predecessors had already made a wise decision, creating a beautiful public park in Ontario Place. The Ford government has destroyed that beautiful natural history, and we must live with their horrible choices. 

But all is not lost. This week, Ontario Place Protectors filed a public interest court challenge to the work taking place at Ontario Place. You can read more about that here. 

This week, Star Contributor Anna Fitzpatrick reminded us that we do not have to accept the enormous parking structure at Ontario Place as a foregone conclusion and that it is our duty to fight it. We need to move to a less car-centric culture, and Ontario Place is already well served by the TTC, GO train, and a new planned stop on the Ontario Line. This government could instead reroute that $20 million+ funding to create public infrastructure for everyone, not just spa visitors, to enjoy.

Vials of updated COVID-19 vaccines - Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press

Updated COVID-19 boosters are now available for high-risk and priority groups, including seniors, young children, and residents and staff of long-term care. The entire list can be found here. I encourage you to get vaccinated as soon as you are eligible, as this vaccine offers the best protection against the current COVID-19 variants circulating in our communities. Find a pharmacy offering the vaccine here, or speak to your primary healthcare provider. 

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam clearing dishes at last year’s Muslim Welfare Centre Thanksgiving Dinner.

I want to wish everyone celebrating this weekend a Happy Thanksgiving and meaningful Yom Kippur. I hope those marking Thanksgiving spend the holidays giving thanks with your loved ones and enjoying delicious food. And I hope all of our Jewish community members who are observing Yom Kippur tonight and tomorrow find time for reflection and spiritual closeness. 

If you or anyone you know is hungry for food or community this weekend, the Muslim Welfare Centre and the Salvation Army host community dinners in Toronto Centre on Sunday that are open to everyone. I am a regular server at both dinners, and they are a highlight of my fall weekends each year. I know they will welcome you with open arms if you drop by.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Health Care Telephone Townhall
  
• Workers Rights in Committee 
• Year One of the RCMP Investigating Doug Ford
• Health Care Trojan Horse
• October 7th Anniversary
• Ontario Failing Children and Youth in Care
• Happy 150th Birthday Winchester Public School
• Happy Taiwan Day
• Centre for Social Innovation’s 20th Anniversary
• Your Feedback - Abuse Prevention Training
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

This Wednesday, October 16, at 7 PM, I will join the Ontario Medical Association’s CEO, Kimberley Moran, for a massive telephone town hall on health care. It’s an opportunity to learn about the crisis in our medical system and how to fix it. 

If you would like to join in, you can call 1-877-295-7685 or join the online audio stream here. 

My fellow MPPs, Peter Tabuns (Toronto Danforth) and Jill Andrew (Toronto St Paul’s), will also participate in the telephone town hall. I hope to see you there!

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam in Committee at Queen’s Park

On Monday, I participated in committee hearings on Government Bill 190, which tinkers at the edges of the Employment Standards Act without making substantive changes to support workers. Meanwhile, the Ontario NDP has been pushing worker-friendly policies for years, including 10 paid sick days, anti-scab legislation, equal pay, and properly classing app-based gig workers as employees. 

At the committee, we heard from presenters, including the Workers’ Health and Safety Legal Clinic, OPSEU, and Waterloo Region Community Legal Services. They all flagged the exploitation rampant in Ontario workplaces, especially against truckers, hotel workers, farm workers, cleaners, and women and racialized workers in a variety of job classes. The issue of wage theft, unsafe working conditions, and workplace violence and harassment, among other flagrant violations of the Employment Standards Act. 

One story they shared that blew up in the media afterward was that of Waterloo-region grocery chain Dutchie’s Fresh Market, which has been committing wage theft and non-payment of vendors for over ten years. The owner of Dutchie’s owes at least $469,000 in unpaid wages to employees that the Ministry of Finance has been unsuccessful in collecting. In March, four former Dutchie’s employees, all refugees from Ukraine, went public about the wage theft, but these wages are still outstanding. 

I will continue to advocate for the broad reforms needed in Ontario to keep workers safe, respect their rights, and ensure they are paid in full and on time. 

Yesterday marked the one-year anniversary of the RCMP's investigation into Doug Ford and his cronies who tried to sell off the Greenbelt. So far, the RCMP’s Sensitive and International Investigations team has interviewed eight inner-circle political aides, along with countless bureaucrats and staffers.

I am proud to be part of Ontario’s strong Opposition MPP Caucus. Our strong leadership and the tireless work of our research department helped uncover Ford’s corruption, alongside incredible investigative journalists and the power of everyday people who smelled something fishy. 

There is still so much we don’t know about this mess. Reports that the RCMP is investigating potential bank accounts in Europe show that the extent of this corruption may be bigger than anyone thought.

An apology is not enough; Doug Ford needs to come clean about his role in this scheme to rob Ontarians of the Greenbelt to enrich a wealthy few. I will accept nothing less. 

MPP Wong-Tam and Coalition members outside of Queen’s Park with the Trojan Horse.

Soon to visit 60 more communities across Ontario, the Ontario Health Coalition’s giant Trojan horse came to Queen’s Park to remind us about the dirty, sneaky ways Ford is privatizing healthcare under our noses. 

If you want to get involved in public healthcare advocacy, please connect with the Ontario Health Coalition and join them in their advocacy!

This past Monday was the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attack. I know this anniversary was a difficult one for many people in our communities, including my own family, as my sister was in Tel Aviv at that time. I hope that everyone affected was surrounded by love and care on that day. 

I am very proud of the principled and humanitarian-focused response of the federal NDP, especially our International Affairs critic Heather McPherson and leader Jagmeet Singh. I want to share the Federal NDP’s entire statement on the anniversary here as I believe it captures the moment: 

“October 7th marks one year since the horrific Hamas terror attacks in Israel in which 1200 people were killed, including eight Canadians. Over 250 people, Israeli, Palestinian, Jewish, Muslim, foreign nationals, and dual citizens were taken hostage by Hamas. This was the single deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust. One year later, over one hundred hostages remain in Hamas captivity. This anniversary is a painful reminder of the suffering endured by countless families who have experienced the devastating impact of those attacks. New Democrats and all Canadians mourn with Canada’s Jewish community and we reiterate our call for the return of all hostages.

Over the past year, Jewish Canadians have faced an alarming and unacceptable rise in antisemitism. The Jewish community is currently observing the High Holidays, and we know that synagogues and community centres have unfortunately required enhanced security measures given the rise in antisemitism. Jewish families live with worry for their safety here in Canada, and fear for family and loved ones living in Israel who are caught in the crossfire of violence they did not choose.

There is no justification or rationale for the horrific terror attacks of October 7th, and the significance of this day - not just for the Jewish community, but for all those who uphold the sanctity of international law - cannot and should not be minimized. This day stands on its own as a devastating blow for so many.

For many Canadians, the response to October 7th from Netanyahu’s extremist government, was the beginning of a brutal assault on the people of Gaza, who did not and do not deserve collective punishment. Palestinian, Muslim, and Arab communities in Canada are feeling the weight of immense suffering from the ongoing genocide by Netanyahu’s extremist government that has killed tens of thousands of innocent people, including children. Just as there is no justification for the brutal terror attacks on October 7, there is likewise no justification for the high number of civilian casualties and indiscriminate attacks on the people of Gaza.

New Democrats also mourn with these Canadians who have experienced an alarming rise of anti-Palestinian hate and Islamophobia over the past year. And as we witness another war in Lebanon, their pain – and indeed, the pain of so many Canadians - has only increased.

New Democrats stand in solidarity with all Canadians who yearn for peace and justice for all people. As we mark this terrible anniversary and grieve the losses that have come before us and the losses that continue to mount, we reiterate the need to hold space for each other, to privilege dialogue and compassion over hate and violence.

We also remember that war is political, genocide is preventable, and Canada and the international community have a responsibility to act to end this horror.

There is no possible military solution to this decades-long conflict. We reiterate the actions Canada must take now: Work for a hostage deal and immediate ceasefire; sanction all those who violate international law, whether Hamas or Netanyahu’s extremist government; impose an arms embargo while the atrocities continue; recognize the State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel and work to end the decades-long illegal occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem; and support international court efforts to bring all perpetrators to justice.

To the many Canadians feeling pain and trauma on this tragic anniversary: New Democrats stand with you. We will continue to work for our common humanity, for justice, and for peace.”

I, like many of you, have been following the reports about Children’s Aid Societies across Ontario housing children in incredibly inappropriate places, including hotels, AirBnBs, and the floors of offices. 

This week, the government launched a review of Children's Aid Societies instead of stepping up funding for a sector that has been cut and underfunded for decades. They are trying to distract from the mess they have created in Children’s Aid Societies across the province following reports of vulnerable children placed in unsafe situations.

We need investments, not distractions. Ford’s ‘review’ does nothing about decades of government underfunding, it does nothing about the crisis brewing in the system, it is simply an abdication of responsibility from a government that is choosing to look away from the crisis. They have been “reviewing” for five years, but what do they have to show for it? Is this the best we can do after having hundreds of children lose their lives in our broken system? What does this review do for children like Neveah and Katelynn? 

Instead of another do-nothing “review,” we need sustainable solutions that meet the needs of vulnerable children and families across the province. Children’s Aid Societies need proactive front-loaded funding to continue to protect our most valuable investment – our children.

Children and youth in our care system cannot wait until a report comes out in 2025. They need help now, and they need the system to work for them now. We cannot keep failing these children. We cannot look away in Ontario another day.

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam with Councillor Moise, TDSB staff, Winchester PS Principal DeAndra Mitchell, Trustee Williams and Minister Ien 

Happy 150th Anniversary to Winchester Public School! Last weekend, I was thrilled to join current and former students, staff, and families of Winchester to celebrate this incredible milestone with them.

Education is the cornerstone of our society, and I am so happy to have celebrated alongside so many educators who make learning possible every day. Here’s to many more years of inspiring the next generation!

MPP Wong-Tam with guests at the Taiwan Day celebration

Last Friday, I was delighted to join Director General Madame Chen and other esteemed guests at Taiwan's 113th-anniversary celebration. Our Canada-Taiwan friendship and trade partnerships remain strong and true, benefitting us all. Taiwan is a vibrant nation with an inclusive culture, rich history, and delicious culinary offerings. It was a gift to share such a remarkable evening with friends.

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam with MPP Glover and past and present CSI leadership

Last night, the Centre for Social Innovation celebrated its 20th anniversary! Celebrating with them and so many old friends was so much fun. I was one of the original founding tenants of the first CSI building at 215 Spadina Avenue, and watching it grow over the years has been a joy. 

The Centre for Social Innovation is a first-of-its kind collaborative office space for organizations and businesses with a social mission to collaborate with others and receive mentoring to grow their operations. We are so lucky to have them here in Toronto, and I can’t wait to see them grow and evolve over the coming decades! 

Recently a constituent shared with me that she and several others attended or spoke with people who attended an Abuse Prevention training aimed at personal support workers/attendants and nurturing assistants for people living with disabilities. The training was hosted by the Abuse Prevention Provincial Advisory Committee of Ontario and the Centre for Independent Living Toronto and held from April 9-11, 2024. The constituent told me that she was very excited about this training because it is so incredibly necessary and trainings like this are uncommon. 

However, there were some discussions of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) during the training that raised serious concerns with some community members. 

If you attended or heard about this training or trainings like it and would like to offer your feedback, please reply to this email answering the following questions or sharing your feedback in a different format: 

• Did you attend the training in question?
• What did you like about the training?
• What did you dislike about the training? 
• Was there mention/discussion about MAiD in the training? What form did that take?
• What was missing from these provincial trainings, if anything?

All responses will be kept private, and no names will be shared publicly unless explicit consent is given. 

Opinion: The Ontario Place spa is a costly extravagance we’ll be subsidizing forever | TVO Today

Doug Ford’s government releases details of Ontario Place lease with Therme spa

Ontario lowers mammogram self-referral age to 40 from 50, bookings can now be made

Free RSV shots now available for Ontario infants: ‘A very big deal for child health’ 

Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Rosar-Morrison, 467 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON

Rosar-Morrison invites the community to a free pumpkin giveaway. Families are welcome to stop by and pick up a pumpkin, with a limit of one per family while supplies last.

Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Central Toronto Academy, 570 Shaw St, Toronto, ON M6G 3L6

Trustee Deborah Williams invites parents, guardians, caregivers, school councils, teachers, and community members to the Ward 10 Forum. This forum will explore efforts to transform school grounds, creating more sustainable, engaging, and environmentally friendly outdoor spaces. An update on the 2024-2033 Long Term Program & Accommodation Strategy will also be shared, focusing on balancing school enrolment, improving access to programs, and ensuring equity for all students.

Childcare will be provided onsite.

Click here to RSVP.

For interpretation or accessibility needs, or to RSVP, contact: [email protected] or 416-395-8787.

Good To Be Good is collaborating with the Green Resilience Project to host an in-person workshop focused on gathering community feedback related to climate change and social justice. This workshop is open to local women and gender-diverse individuals from BIPOC and marginalized communities, providing a platform to share your priorities and concerns about climate issues. 

This workshop will take place on October 17, 2024 from 6:30 PM to 8 Pm at the Toronto Public Library, Bloor/Gladstone Branch in the Community Room. Space is limited to 20 participants, so make sure to register early ! Each participant will receive a $50 Visa gift card as a token of appreciation for their time and contributions.

Dates: October 16-27, 2024
Venue: Buddies in Bad Times Chamber, 12 Alexander Street, Toronto

CIVILIZED is a one-act play that tackles Canada’s troubling history with Indian Residential Schools through a biting, comedic lens. Set in 1907, the play features William Blank, a character representing Canadian bureaucrats who justified the ongoing harm caused by these schools. Played by Métis actor John D. Huston, Blank uses charm, wit, and a touch of trickster energy to convince the audience that the ends justified the means.

Inspired by historical reports, including Dr. Peter Bryce’s damning findings about the deadly conditions in these schools, CIVILIZED combines poetry, song, and humor to challenge audiences to reflect on the cost of being "civilized."

Directed by Paul Hopkins and designed by 2Spirit multi-media artist Jay Havens, the play offers a unique mix of research, theatricality, and social commentary.

Tickets: Available starting September 18, 2024
Box Office: Up to 20% of proceeds will support Kawenni/Gaweni School. For more information, visit kgschool.ca.

Learn more and get tickets here.

The Friends of Regent Park invite everyone to join them for their annual October Funfest on Saturday, October 26, 2024. This exciting event will take place from 1 PM to 3 PM at The Big Park at 620 Dundas St East, near the Bake Oven.

Celebrate the fall season with pumpkin carving, cookie decorating, music and dancing and delicious apple crisp and treat bags.

The City of Toronto is hosting their annual TSNS Community Networks Summit on Saturday, November 9, 2024!

The TSNS Community Networks Summit will offer space for networking, participation in interactive workshops, and connect with other members of TSNS Community Networks. Please register online here to attend.

The Ontario Legislative Assembly is inviting students in Grades 7 and 8 to apply for its Legislative Page Program. This unique opportunity allows approximately 150 high-achieving students to gain hands-on experience in government operations, meet key parliamentary figures, and develop leadership skills. The program is designed for students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership within their schools and communities.

The application periods are April 15 to June 15, and September 15 to November 15. Click here for more information and how to apply.

Every Tuesday from October 2 to November 6, The Corner at 240 Wellesley Street East will host Make Art Speak Heart from 6 PM to 7:30 PM.

This opportunity is free for children ages 8 to 16. 

For more information please email [email protected] or call (416) 964-6657.

On October 27, Homeless Connect Toronto will be hosting it's 11th Annual One-Stop-Shop event! It  will take place at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, located at 50 Carlton Street. For over a decade, Homeless Connect Toronto has been dedicated to organizing one-stop-shop events that connect individuals impacted by homelessness with essential support services. 

This year’s event will offer a range of vital services to Torontonians affected by homelessness, including housing and employment support, financial assistance, hearing and eye assessments, haircuts, dental care, foot care, and many more. All services will be provided free of charge in collaboration with local community agencies and businesses. Live music and a warm meal is also provided at the event.

Dear Neighbour,

Yesterday I was joined by over two hundred friends and supporters at The Aviary to officially accept my nomination as Toronto Centre’s NDP candidate in the upcoming provincial election. 

Kristyn accepting their nomination.

It was an honour to be renominated with so much love from members of every neighbourhood and to have Sureya Ibrahim, Crystal Quartz, Andre Morriseau and others share such kind endorsements. I love serving the Toronto Centre community and promise to continue this work, moving our neighbourhoods towards being more prosperous, healthy and fun places to live. This is the work of my life, and there is nothing I would rather spend my time doing. I was emotional as I addressed the crowd because it was so beautiful to see people from every area of my life in one place. Moments before I spoke, I had reconnected with my old friend Scott. He and I were friends when I was a homeless, freshly-out-of-the-closet teenager. To see him last night and reflect on those times and all of the young friends we lost, who died of AIDS, suicide and overdose, reminded me of why I give my whole heart to this work. My wife Farrah captured it perfectly last night when she said, “I know that I am the love of Kristyn’s life, but I also know that this community is the love of their life. And that only makes me love them more.”

In addition to being so heartwarming, the event was so much fun! Everyone in attendance caught up with friends, enjoyed delicious food, and danced to Regent Park’s own Snooky Tynes Soul Express!

Snooky Tynes frontman with dancing guests!

As we look towards the upcoming snap election, I am proud to focus on building an Ontario where everyone can afford to live a good life. All Ontarians deserve access to high-quality and timely public healthcare, an affordable home in a vibrant community, and the ability to pay the bills while putting food on the table. Now is also a great time to donate to my campaign so that we are ready for whenever Ford calls a snap election.

These are the priorities of working people in Ontario, and I am proud to share them. 

Meanwhile, Ford has been living in a fantasy land all week, taking cheap shots at cyclists, teachers, and unhoused people while proposing building a multi-billion dollar tunnel underneath the 401. I am happy to let him bumble around and try to score political points while I get down to the real work. 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
• Pushing for Peace and De-Escalation in Lebanon
• Protecting Bike Lanes and Celebrating Toronto’s New Bicycle Mayor
• Toronto Birth Centre’s 10th Anniversary Celebration
• Salvation Army Immigrant & Refugee Services 35th Anniversary
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

This upcoming Monday is the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, a day for deep reflection, learning about the truth of the residential school system, and moving towards reconciliation with Indigenous communities. 

Starting today and through Monday, Council Fire Native Cultural Centre is hosting an Indigenous Legacy Gathering at Nathan Phillips Square. There, they are unveiling the Spirit Garden, a beautiful monument to the children forced to attend residential school, both the ones who survived and those who never came home. There will also be many learning opportunities, events, and vendors there all weekend. I encourage you to drop by to learn, enjoy delicious food, and support Indigenous entrepreneurs this weekend. I will be there on Monday to take in the monument, pay my respects, and visit the vendors. 

This week, federal NDP MPP Leah Gazan tabled a Private Members Bill that would criminalize Residential School denialism, similar to how Germany criminalizes holocaust denialism. The bill defines this denialism as anyone who is publicly promoting hatred against Indigenous Peoples by "condoning, denying, downplaying or justifying the Indian residential school system in Canada or by misrepresenting facts related to it." Last year MP Gazan also tabled a bill confirming that what happened at residential schools constitutes a genocide. That bill passed unanimously. 

There is still so much that we need to do on the path of truth and reconciliation. I am committed to learning and working in solidarity with Indigenous people to recognize harms and facilitate repair. 

Jagmeet Singh, Leader of the NDP, giving a statement about Lebanon.

I am sure that you all have seen the horrific images of civilian casualties in Lebanon this week. I am thinking about all of my Lebanese friends and community members, as well as their loved ones in Lebanon. It is horrific to know civilians in Lebanon are facing the deadliest violence the country has experienced since 2006, even as they continue to face a crippling economic crisis. Civilians in Lebanon do not want a war. 

United Nations officials have been clear that Israel’s attacks over the past week have violated humanitarian law. New Democrats condemn these attacks that have killed civilians, including women, children, and medics. We condemn Hezbollah’s firing of rockets targeting Israeli civilians. But the death toll in Lebanon has made clear that Israel's attacks are not a last resort; the attacks are not guided by proportionality; and the attacks on civilians undermine the conditions needed for immediate and future peace. Civilians should always be kept safe from violence and no one deserves to be caught in the crossfire. 

Let me be frank: Israel's Prime Minister is deeply unpopular, genocidal, and failing. He is looking to distract from his abject failure to bring home Israeli hostages. He is risking regional war to save his political hide. Netanyahu's legacy and the escalated violence against Lebanese civilians are depraved. 

I am joining Jagmeet Singh and the NDP’s Foreign Affairs Critic Heather McPherson, who have both raised their voices to call on the Liberal government to evacuate Canadians, push for de-escalation, and actively help pursue peace in the region. What has been happening in Gaza for almost a year now is horrific beyond words and we cannot allow the same to happen to the people of Lebanon. 

Even as I write this more atrocious attacks are taking place. I just saw a video of multiple residential apartment buildings being bombed in Beirut. Targeting residential areas full of civilians must stop. 

I have visited Lebanon and seen the beautiful communities there. The people are so incredibly warm, the food is delicious, and the culture and architecture is priceless. I am absolutely heartbroken to hear about the streets I have walked through being bombed beyond recognition. But more than any of that, Lebanese communities and families are just like ours - they want to be safe, to be able to access healthcare, food, and education, and they want to be able to go to sleep each night without wondering if their home will be reduced to rubble. Thanks to the actions of the Israeli government, people in Lebanon are afforded none of that security. Canada must do everything it can to stop this violence and work towards a lasting and just peace in the region.

Kristyn Wong-Tam with Ali Stewart, Lanrick Bennett, Chris Moise, and Consul General Harman Idema

On Tuesday I had the honour of celebrating Toronto’s newly-minted Bicycle Mayor, Ali Stewart! This advocacy position exists to promote cycling and safety for road users. This could be the deadliest year on record for cyclists in Toronto, and we need smart dedicated champions like Ali more than ever. She is a Friends for Life Bike Ride cyclist and someone I’m proud to call my friend!

I also want to extend a big, heartfelt thank you to Lanrick Bennett for his hard work and tenacity as Toronto's first Bicycle Mayor.  His passion for road safety has been ground-shifting in promoting cycling and active transportation in Toronto.

This week, the need for a bicycle Mayor in Toronto was highlighted even further, as we heard news that Ford and his buddies are trying to steamroll over municipalities and ban the installation of new bike lanes that would reduce lanes of car traffic. 

Ford never understood that cars cause congestion. The biggest contributor to road congestion is cars when they block intersections, stall emergency vehicles, and stop in no-parking zones. If Ford stops new bike lanes or removes those installed, cyclists won't stop riding. They'll just be riding unprotected.

Politicians should be focused on creating safe roads for all road users, instead of pitting groups against each other and creating wedge issues to score political points. 

I am proud of the solutions that the Ontario NDP have been proposing to the congestion issues facing our communities. Everyone deserves to get home in a timely manner to see their families and rest. We need to leverage the billion dollar fine that the 407 owners owe the Ontario government to force them to allow commercial trucks onto the 407 toll-free. This would reduce congestion and lower emissions right away, with no wait times to build new infrastructure. 

Building more highways and digging tunnels for cars is not the solution to traffic. Nor is banning bike lanes. This has been proven time and time again, explained by a phenomenon called “induced demand”. What the GTA really needs is to invest in comfortable, affordable, and efficient public transit and active transportation to get people moving, while ensuring the roads we need flow smoothly and the highways we already have are well maintained.

Kristyn Wong-Tam with participants and staff from the The Salvation Army Immigrant & Refugee Services

It was an honour to attend yesterday's 35th Anniversary Celebration of The Salvation Army Immigrant & Refugee Services! As someone who came to Canada when I was very young, I deeply empathize with the challenges newcomers face and appreciate the transformative work done by support and community services to make the transition to life in Canada easier. It is amazing to see this remarkable program celebrate its 35th birthday!

The first page of Kristyn Wong-Tam’s letter to WPSQ

It has been over 50 days since I sent my last letter to Wellesley Parliament Square, the landlord of 77 Howard Street. Tenants have still not heard from their landlord about ongoing concerns and historical issues remain unaddressed. Yesterday I sent a followup letter demanding that tenants get the answers and fair treatment they deserve. You can read the letter here.

Metrolinx agrees to reduce Ontario Line construction after east-end neighbourhood covered in dust

Time on hold for 911 in Toronto dropped this year, after average of nearly 1 minute wait in 2023

'We have nowhere to go.' A lack of housing options is keeping some seniors from downsizing — could this approach help?

How developers will benefit from the Yonge subway route change – and why it's raising the spectre of the Ford government's Greenbelt scandal

Doug Ford makes several exaggerated claims about Toronto bike lanes

Number of homeless OW, ODSP recipients has almost doubled in two years: government data

Glad Day Bookshop is organizing a volunteer clean-up day on October 5th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. With the shop set to host a film crew starting October 17th, volunteers are needed to help spruce up the space. Tasks will include washing walls, scrubbing floors, carrying boxes, and dusting.

Volunteers will be provided with lunch, snacks, drinks, and personal protective equipment (PPE). The organizers are hoping to gather around 10-20 people to help.

If you’re interested but unable to attend on this date, there will be future opportunities to contribute.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Merlin at [email protected] or call 416-841-0703.

LAST DAY TO REGISTER!

The City of Toronto is excited to bring back Fabulous, Fierce & Free: Drag Youth Masterclass starting this October at the Wellesley Community Centre. This free 10-week series is designed for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, ages 13-24, to explore the art of drag through workshops on live performance, costuming, acting, and entrepreneurship. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn from Toronto’s top drag talent.

Key Highlights:

• Start Date: October 1, 2024
• Location: Wellesley Community Centre, St. James Town
• Schedule: Tuesdays, 10-week program, with a final showcase on November 28
• Instructor: @TheeQueenStar, joined by guest stars from Canada’s Drag Race
• Perks: Free $150 makeup swag bag, professional photoshoot, and first aid certification

Spaces are limited to 10 participants, so register by September 27. For more details and registration, visit Eventbrite or contact [email protected].

The St. James Town Residents Association is hosting its 27th Annual Fall Festival of Friends, now rescheduled to September 28. This free community event features live music, info tables, and a corn roast. Please note the new date!

• Date: September 28, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Back of 200 Wellesley St. East

Enjoy food from local vendors, meet tenants helping tenants, and connect with community services like Hans Convenience Store, RX Remedy, and more.

In honour of the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Homicide, a Community March Against Gun Violence will take place on Saturday, September 28. The march, organized by the Zero Gun Violence Movement and other partners, will honour victims and families affected by gun violence.

• Date: Saturday, September 28
• Time: Gather at 2 PM
• Location: Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto (march to Queen’s Park)

Join in this important movement to stand against gun violence and support safer communities.

The Friends of Allan Gardens are excited to present the new Community Market Series this September! 

Each Saturday, from 11 AM to 3 PM, the Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory and the new Teaching Garden will host themed markets featuring unique finds and fun activities for the whole family.

Location: Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory & Teaching Garden, 117 Carlton Street

English Testing Canada is inviting the community to join their 2024 Pencil Case Stuffing Sessions. These sessions aim to support at-need TDSB students by filling 20,000 donated pencil cases with essential school supplies like pencils, erasers, pens, and sharpeners.

Dates:

• Sunday, September 22, 2024: 10 AM - 6 PM
• Monday, September 23, 2024: 6 PM - 9 PM

Location: Foy House, 92 Isabella Street

Special Feature: Free guided tours of Foy House will be offered during the event:

• Sunday, September 22: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM
• Monday, September 23: 7 PM, 8 PM

From September 20 to October 13, 2024, Ontario Culture Days invites communities across the province to celebrate arts and culture. In its 15th anniversary year, this festival will bring together over a million participants for free events, showcasing music, theatre, heritage, visual arts, crafts, and more.

• Date: September 20 – October 13, 2024
• Location: Events happening across Ontario

Last year’s festival featured 1,200 activities in 97 municipalities, contributing $44 million in economic impact. This year, Ontario Culture Days continues to promote accessible arts and culture while highlighting local talent. Visit culturedays.ca to explore the full list of events.

Stay connected by following @onculturedays on social media!

Seniors for Climate invites the community to join their nationwide movement for urgent climate action. Fossil fuel emissions continue to fuel devastating fires, floods, and extreme weather. On October 1, seniors across Canada will stand in solidarity with youth, urging the federal government to take immediate steps towards renewable energy expansion and the end of fossil fuel burning. 

Toronto Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, October 1
• Time: 1:30 PM
• Location: Rally at University Avenue and Armoury

March to the Church of the Holy Trinity, 10 Trinity Square

Notable speakers include David Phillips, David Suzuki, and Lillian Allen. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, and masks are welcome.

This event is part of a larger initiative by the Seniors for Climate project, featuring over 50 events across Canada.

Butterfly invites the community to celebrate a significant milestone—their 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner!

Taking place on October 3, from 6-10 PM, at Dim Sum King 421 Dundas Street West, 3rd floor, Toronto, this special event will feature performances, reflections from allies and community members, a silent auction, and more. The evening aims to commemorate a decade of supporting Asian and migrant sex and massage workers.

• Tickets to the Gala Dinner here
• Workshop & fundraising registration here

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario Model Parliament is a three-day educational program offering high school students the chance to engage with democracy firsthand.

Event Details:

• Dates: February 19 to 21, 2025
• Location: Ontario Legislative Building, Toronto

Who Can Apply?

• Ontario students in grades 10 to 12 with an interest in government, current affairs, and provincial issues.

Why Apply?

• Participants will meet the Speaker, Members of Provincial Parliament, and other civic-minded peers, and experience how Ontario's legislature operates, including debating as an MPP.

Application Deadline: October 6, 2024

For more information and to apply, click here.

The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 11th REmarket on October 9 and 10. This two-day event focuses on collecting unwanted items, with recycling services, donation collection, and hazardous waste drop-off available.

Event Details:

• Wednesday, October 9:
  • FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
• Thursday, October 10:
  • Repair Café Toronto will fix clothing, jewelry, computers, electronics, and more from 11 AM to 3 PM.
  • CultureLink Bike Hub will offer small bike repairs and safety checks from 10 AM to 6 PM.

The event will be held at the St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade. For full details and guidelines, click here.

Are you ready to make your voice heard on one of the most pressing issues of our time? If you’re passionate about climate change and its impact on our communities, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

We’re excited to announce that Good To Be Good is collaborating up with the Green Resilience Project to host an in-person workshop focused on gathering community feedback related to climate change and social justice. This workshop is open to local women and gender-diverse individuals from BIPOC and marginalized communities, providing a platform to share your priorities and concerns about climate issues. Together, we aim to establish clear goals and commitments to climate justice in our community. An anonymous report will document our discussions in collaboration with the Green Resilience Project.

Event Details:

• Title: Climate Resilience: Peer Support Group
  
  
• Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024
  
  
• Time: 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
  
  
• Location: Toronto Public Library, Bloor/Gladstone Branch (Community Room)
  

Space is limited to 20 participants, so we encourage early registration! Each participant will receive a $50 Visa gift card as a token of appreciation for their time and contributions.

The Friends of Regent Park invite everyone to join them for their annual October Funfest on Saturday, October 26, 2024. This exciting event will take place from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Big Park (620 Dundas St E) - Bake Oven.

Celebrate the fall season with:

• Pumpkin carving
• Cookie decorating
• Music and dancing
• Delicious apple crisp and treat bags

It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends and family for an afternoon of fun and community spirit!

The Einstein Lab, led by Dr. Gillian Einstein at the University of Toronto Psychology Department specializes in cognitive neuroscience, gender, and health research. They are inviting qualifying participants to participate in their Trans-led study on how different hormones and life experiences contribute to cognitive health and aging. 

Currently, the lab is recruiting Trans women, Non-binary people and cisgender men and women who are 50+ to participate. Volunteers will be compensated up to $150 plus travel expenses. For more information, email: [email protected] or fill out the contact form here.

The Ontario Legislative Assembly is inviting students in Grades 7 and 8 to apply for its Legislative Page Program. This unique opportunity allows approximately 150 high-achieving students to gain hands-on experience in government operations, meet key parliamentary figures, and develop leadership skills. The program is designed for students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership within their schools and communities.

Key Information:

• Application Periods: April 15 to June 15, and September 15 to November 15
• Details: Click here for more information and to apply

Explore the legislative process and be a part of Ontario's Parliament!

Dear friend,

I am thrilled to invite you to my official nomination meeting next Thursday, September 26, at The Aviary restaurant at 484 Front Street East in the beautiful Canary District, just south of Corktown. The event starts at 6:30 PM and will include a live band, delicious refreshments, and special guests in a beautiful space. You can RSVP here. 

At the nomination meeting, a formal vote will be held to approve me as the official NDP candidate for Toronto Centre. This vote means I have the confidence of the local membership and can appear on the ballot in the upcoming snap election under the party’s banner. This practice is a core part of the NDP’s internal democracy, a proud tradition in which I am glad to participate. After the vote, we will celebrate!

Date: Thursday, September 26, 2024

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: The Aviary, 484 Front Street East, Toronto

It has been an honour to represent Toronto Centre at the provincial level for the past two and a half years, and I can’t wait to take on Ford in the next election and keep bringing your priorities to Queen’s Park. Over the past two years I have tabled twelve bills and five motions in the legislature, on topics ranging from stopping illegal handguns to preventing future pandemics to keeping 2SLGBTQIA+ communities safe. I have also co-lead the Sub-Committee on Intimate Partner Violence, helped Rastafest organize their first event in Regent Park, pressured Ford to fund and staff Ontario's tribunals adequately, and worked alongside incarcerated people and their families to expose the horrible conditions in Ontario's jails. On evenings and weekends I met thousands of you at local community events, consultations and parties held by my office, and at your doorsteps while canvassing. I am excited to continue this critical work alongside all of you. 

Whenever the election is called, whether next week, in the spring, or in 2026, we will be ready! 

Kristyn with members of the Regent Park Islamic Resource Centre and Masjidur Rahmah

Yesterday, I hosted a consultation in Regent Park to better understand how community members experience Islamophobia and what solutions they feel would be meaningful. This work is in preparation for the re-tabling of the Our London Family Act, a bill initially tabled by the Ontario NDP in honour of the Afzaal Family, who were brutally killed by a white supremacist using his car in London, Ontario in 2021. 

It was a powerful evening. Over 100 people attended and shared how they have experienced Islamophobia in schools, on the TTC, walking in their neighbourhoods, and in workplaces. It is heartbreaking that this hatred is so underreported and yet widespread. But the event was also hopeful. People offered suggestions like focusing on education, preventing hate from developing in the first place and creating better ways for government, law enforcement, and institutions to hold people accountable for hateful acts and comments. 

If you would like to offer your feedback and ideas about how we can tackle Islamophobia in our communities, please fill out this survey and feel free to share it! Together, we can make life better for Muslim and racialized communities.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• While Ford Dithers, Nova Scotia Declares IPV an Epidemic
• 77 Howard Tenants Stand Up
• 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations Annual General Meeting
• Jagmeet Singh Stands Strong Against Hate
• Barbara Hall Park Turns 50!
• The Legislative Page Program is Open for Applications!
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

Nova Scotia NDP Leader Claudia Chender, who introduced the bill. (Pat Callaghan/CBC)

This week, Nova Scotia adopted a bill to declare Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) an epidemic in the province - a bill almost identical to one I tabled in March of this year at Queen’s Park. I am so proud of the Nova Scotia legislators and activists who made this declaration possible, and heartbroken that the epidemic of IPV is so widespread. 

This declaration is incredibly meaningful and is an essential step in taking the issue seriously and protecting people from harm. I want to thank UNIFOR, in particular, for their instrumental advocacy, both in Nova Scotia and in Ontario.

I’m heartened to see this bill adopted in Nova Scotia, knowing we have a similar bill in Ontario waiting to pass. It’s unfortunate the Ford government refused to pass the bill in one day as they did in Nova Scotia.

I am working hard to create the most valuable and meaningful IPV consultation process possible. Still, I am also asking that the Ford government de-couple the IPV study from the declaration so that IPV can be declared an epidemic in Ontario as soon as the Legislature resumes. 

I encourage you to contact Premier Ford and PC MPPs to urge them to declare IPV an epidemic urgently and commit to flowing funding to organizations doing lifesaving work in the sector. You can sign my petition here and email Ford at [email protected].

Kristyn standing outside of 77 Howard Street with tenants and Toronto ACORN members.

On Tuesday, I joined Toronto ACORN members at 77 Howard Street, demanding fair treatment from their landlord. Their landlord's negligence forced them to sleep in hotels, throw out refrigerators full of food, and caused horrible damage to their clothes and units. WPSQ and Parwell Investments refuse to answer tenants, and they deserve better. 

I have written a third letter to WPSQ/Parwell this week, reminding them that they have not replied to my last letter and asking that they reply urgently and address the very valid concerns of their tenants.

Play video to watch NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh take on abusive protestor.

At this point, many of you will have seen the viral video of NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh confronting alt-right extremists who have been harassing people outside of the Canadian Parliament for weeks. When Jagmeet approached the harassers, they immediately folded and dropped their hateful rhetoric. 

I appreciated Jagmeet showing that he is not afraid to stand up for his own dignity and the dignity of other racialized people. His actions also showed that these people trying to instill fear and intimidation in the hearts of marginalized people are not so brave when asked to share their beliefs face to face.

Kristyn Wong-Tam addressing the room at the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations’ AGM

It was an honour to join the 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations' AGM on Wednesday evening. This fantastic local organization does life-changing work empowering 2-Spirit people and has been instrumental in the roll-out of Toronto Community Crisis Services — the mental health first responder program. They have done incredible work expanding their mandate from providing HIV/AIDS services as their core mandate to expanding to supporting 2-Spirit people in so many areas of their physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and cultural health. 

At the meeting, I spoke about how they can engage with the Provincial government and share their community's vital perspective in the committee hearings to address intimate partner violence (IPV).

Kristyn Wong-Tam and Barbara Hall holding Jackie Shane faces at Barbara Hall Park

It was a privilege to join the Church Wellesley BIA and the National Film Board last Saturday for the 50th anniversary of Cawthra / Barbara Hall Park, which included the screening of the Jackie Shane documentary Any Which Way. I want to thank the co-director, Michael Mabbott, and Toronto's 61st Mayor, Barbara Hall, for sharing their stories!

Past Pages in the Ontario Legislature

Calling all grade 7 and 8 students in Ontario!

Each year, approximately 150 young students from across Ontario are selected to participate in Ontario's Legislative Page Program. This unique educational program for Ontario students provides an opportunity to experience the provincial legislature in action and forge new lifelong friendships with peers from all over the province! 

The program is designed for outgoing, high-achieving, community-involved students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership. Legislative Pages meet key parliamentary and political figures, and learn first-hand about Ontario’s Parliament and the legislative process. 

While at Queen’s Park, they are under the direction of the Page Program Coordinator who is a certified Ontario teacher. Pages also receive an honorarium during their term of duty. 

The Ontario Legislature is now accepting applications for the Spring 2025 term from September 15th until November 15th, 2024.Page applications are accepted online twice yearly: April 15 to June 15 and September 15 to November 15. Click here or contact [email protected] for more information.

The Creeping Threat to Trans Rights in Toronto - Featuring comments by Kristyn! 

‘Mishap of some kind’: Man dead after industrial accident at Ontario Place

Ontario transportation minister has ‘100% confidence’ in Eglinton Crosstown LRT builders

Peel police tout benefits of mental health crisis teams at safe cities conference

Anishinabek Nation demands action on 2007 Ipperwash inquiry recommendations

“It’s life or death”: Harm reduction workers on Doug Ford’s decision to close safe consumption sites

Next week is Truth and Reconciliation week and the 519 has put together a super accessible and informative list of resources that we can all access to better educate ourselves about the past and present wisdom, joy, and tragedies that Indigenous communities hold. I hope you make use of these resources:

The University of Manitoba's National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is holding free webinars during Truth and Reconciliation Week (September 23 to 27). Unlearn myths about Canada's colonial history and find calls to action to advance Truth and Reconciliation.September 23 to 27 1 pm Toronto local time Virtually, via Zoom and YouTube

Learn about Canada’s Residential School System: 

• Watch “We Were Children”, a documentary through the eyes of two residential school survivors 
• Read “Fatty Legs” and “A Stranger at Home” by Margaret Pokiak-Fenton 

Educate yourself about Canada’s Diverse First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples: 

• Indigenous Canada is a 12-lesson open online course from the University of Alberta's Faculty of Native Studies. From an Indigenous perspective, it explores complex experiences Indigenous peoples face today from a historical and critical perspective highlighting national and local Indigenous-settler relations.
• Read more about offering meaningful land acknowledgements
• Watch Beans, a film based on the true 1990 story, when two Mohawk communities entered into a stand-off with Canadian government forces to protect a burial ground from developers.
• Watch Reservation Dogs, a coming-of-age comedy TV show following four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma.
• Immerse yourself in more Indigenous films, documentaries, and reflections.
• Listen to the sounds of the best Indigenous artists from Canada.

The Young Politicians invites all youth to the Youth Civic and Political Forum on September 21 at Toronto City Hall. 

This event is an opportunity for young minds to come together, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore solutions to issues facing Toronto. Join like-minded peers and renowned leaders to explore, initiate, and debate civic and political matters. For more details, click here.

The Friends of Allan Gardens are excited to present the new Community Market Series this September! 

Each Saturday, from 11 AM to 3 PM, the Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory and the new Teaching Garden will host themed markets featuring unique finds and fun activities for the whole family.

Location: Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory & Teaching Garden, 117 Carlton Street

English Testing Canada is inviting the community to join their 2024 Pencil Case Stuffing Sessions. These sessions aim to support at-need TDSB students by filling 20,000 donated pencil cases with essential school supplies like pencils, erasers, pens, and sharpeners. Click here to RSVP. 

• Dates:
  • Sunday, September 22, 2024: 10 AM - 6 PM
  • Monday, September 23, 2024: 6 PM - 9 PM

• Location: Foy House, 92 Isabella Street
• Special Feature: Free guided tours of Foy House will be offered during the event:
  • Sunday, September 22: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM
  • Monday, September 23: 7 PM, 8 PM

Newcomer Women's Services Toronto is offering an informative online workshop, All About Public Transportation in Toronto, on September 24, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The session will cover:

• An overview of the various transit options in Toronto
• Guidance on paying for bus and subway rides
• Tips on planning your trips efficiently

The workshop will take place virtually via Zoom, making it accessible to all. For more information or to register, please email [email protected] or call 437-423-2553

Newcomer Women’s Services provides a wide variety of services to our community, both virtually and at their office at 489 Queen Street East. Click here to learn more about what they have to offer!

The Youth Justice Community Forum invites you to a full-day discussion focusing on barriers and supports for Black and racialized youth in the justice system. Engage with youth, community organizations, and justice professionals to explore how to collaborate in supporting justice-involved youth.

Event Details:

• Date: September 24
• Time: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Venue: Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (16 Spadina Road)

The event features an impressive lineup of speakers, including education advocates, legal professionals, and community leaders.

For more information and to secure your ticket, visit the event link or scan the QR code.

This year, the Indigenous Legacy Gathering will take place over four days at Nathan Philips Square, starting on September 27 and culminating in the unveiling of the Spirit Garden on Orange Shirt Day, September 30.

Stay tuned for details on vendor applications, which will be released soon. Check the event website for updates and more information.

Seniors for Climate Action invites the community to join their nationwide movement for urgent climate action. Fossil fuel emissions continue to fuel devastating fires, floods, and extreme weather. On October 1, seniors across Canada will stand in solidarity with youth, urging the federal government to take immediate steps towards renewable energy expansion and the end of fossil fuel burning.

Toronto Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, October 1
• Time: 1:30 PM
• Location: Rally at University Avenue and Armoury

March to the Church of the Holy Trinity, 10 Trinity Square

Notable speakers include David Phillips, David Suzuki, and Lillian Allen. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, and masks are welcome.

This event is part of a larger initiative by the Seniors for Climate project, featuring over 50 events across Canada.

Butterfly invites the community to celebrate a significant milestone—their 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner!

Taking place on October 3, from 6-10 PM, at Dim Sum King 421 Dundas Street West, 3rd floor, Toronto, this special event will feature performances, reflections from allies and community members, a silent auction, and more. The evening aims to commemorate a decade of supporting Asian and migrant sex and massage workers.

• Tickets to the Gala Dinner here
• Workshop & fundraising registration here

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario Model Parliament is a three-day educational program offering high school students the chance to engage with democracy firsthand.

Event Details:

• Dates: February 19 to 21, 2025
• Location: Ontario Legislative Building, Toronto

Who Can Apply?

• Ontario students in grades 10 to 12 with an interest in government, current affairs, and provincial issues.

Why Apply?

• Participants will meet the Speaker, Members of Provincial Parliament, and other civic-minded peers, and experience how Ontario's legislature operates, including debating as an MPP.

Application Deadline: October 6, 2024

For more information and to apply, click here.

The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 11th REmarket on October 9 and 10. This two-day event focuses on collecting unwanted items, with recycling services, donation collection, and hazardous waste drop-off available.

Event Details:

• Wednesday, October 9:
  • FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
• Thursday, October 10:
  • Repair Café Toronto will fix clothing, jewellery, computers, electronics, and more from 11 AM to 3 PM.
  • CultureLink Bike Hub will offer small bike repairs and safety checks from 10 AM to 6 PM.

The event will be held at the St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade. For full details and guidelines, click here.

The Youth Arts Program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario invites young artists aged 12-18 from across the province to exhibit their creative talents. This annual program showcases artwork within the Legislative Building, celebrating diverse artistic abilities.

Key details:

• Application Period: August 15 to October 15, 2024
• Eligibility: Youth aged 12-18 from Ontario
• Exhibit Location: Legislative Assembly Building, Ontario

For more information and to apply, click here. 

For questions, contact: [email protected].

Dear Neighbour,

We are in a housing crisis. Everyone knows this; you don’t need me to tell you. But right now, the issue is compounding – Toronto has also been without crucial housing funding from the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit for almost six months. This funding is critical to moving people into long-term housing and out of encampments and shelters. I know this is a priority for many people in our communities and one that I share.

The Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit provides rent supplements to individuals to help them afford rent in the general rental market. This funding allows people to become rapidly housed without the waitlists that social housing has. With housing waitlists topping 90,000 households and the city’s shelter system short 236 shelter beds per night (data from July - I shudder to think what the winter will bring), this funding is sorely needed. People have nowhere to go since this critical pipeline to rapid housing has stopped. 

Tent on a Toronto sidewalk. (Rene Johnston/Toronto Star)

Yet the Provincial and Federal governments have been shuffling papers for almost six months, and the funding has not flowed. Mayor Olivia Chow says that both levels of government are at the table and listening, but both blame the other for delays. I don’t care whose fault it is; we must get people safely housed and off the streets. 

The Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit is a program that works to rapidly move people into rental housing. Portable funding allows people to choose the right housing and location for them, which means housing waitlists are not a factor in someone getting off of the streets (note that it is only accessible by referral from City staff and that the program is currently closed). But it is also largely a stopgap solution, a bandaid on the wound of decades of public housing underfunding. There would not be such a need for this program if every level of government were committed to building and maintaining a robust stock of social housing and incentivizing the creation of missing-middle housing. Sadly, that is not where we are. 

But it doesn’t have to be this way. I am proud that the Ontario NDP has proposed the creation of Homes Ontario, a plan to build 250,000 non-profit homes on public lands across Ontario. 

To make this policy a reality, we need an NDP government in Ontario! We need to elect as many NDP MPPs as possible to do that, starting with the byelection in the Bay of Quinte. Join me and other passionate folks from Toronto this Sunday as we travel to beautiful Prince Edward County and knock on doors in support of our excellent candidate, Amanda Robertson! 

Amanda Robertson and Marit Stiles at a press conference in Bay of Quinte

If you can’t make it on Sunday, we also have phonebanks (that you can attend from home!) scheduled in advance of election day, Thursday, September 19. Hope to see you there! 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! 
• A Joyful Festival Weekend!
• Our London Family Act Consultation
• My Nomination Meeting
• Metrolinx Don Yards Construction Noise Update
• BENA Social
• Friends of Ruby Celebration
• Healing as One Basketball Tournament
• 1M Ontarians Accessing Foodbanks
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

Today, with our wonderful community partner, Neighbourhood Information Post, we hosted over 240 constituents to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Regent Park. We created coloured paper lanterns, ate mooncakes, cheered on a Chinese seniors' dance troupe, and enjoyed the fantastic company. I also want to thank Toronto Community Housing for their support today - their amazing staff made the event run so smoothly and their smiling faces made all of the seniors happy. 

People have celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival for over 3,000 years. It is a celebration of a bountiful harvest, family togetherness, and the auspiciousness of the full moon. The festival is one of the largest in Chinese and other East Asian cultures, similar in popularity to the Lunar New Year.

I have fond memories of celebrating the Mid-Austum Festival with my family, and I am thrilled to celebrate with so many community members this year. 

Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! 

Kristyn holding a cut cabbage at the Cabbagetown Festival

After Labour Day, Toronto Centre’s festival weekend was a roaring success!

Samantha Green, Toronto Centre’s Federal NDP candidate, and I showed Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles the best of what our communities had to offer during this iconic weekend. 

I kicked off the Cabbagetown Festival by chopping the cabbage in a single cut, part of the traditional fun of the opening ceremony ahead of the two-day extravaganza. Spending the weekend in Cabbagetown was terrific—I had a chance to speak with many neighbours, visited local businesses, and shared community information at our booth. 

Kristyn with Marit Stiles and Samantha Green with TNG staff at the St James Town Festival

Next, we hopped over to the St James Town Festival, where activities were in full swing. Vendors were selling foods from all over the world, and local organizations created a vibrant and fun vibe. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth to sign a petition and pick up a tote bag.

Kristyn with Samantha Green, Masani Montague and Marit Stiles at Rastafest Regent Park

We ended the day at Rastafest Regent Park presented by the Daniels Corporation, where the community enjoyed live reggae music, delicious food, and beautiful artisan vendors. 

I am very thankful for Masani Montague, who spearheaded the organizing of this festival, the lead sponsor Daniels Corp and in particular Mitch and Hannah Cohen and Heela Omarkail, and the volunteers for bringing this event all together. I was thrilled to work alongside them to bring this rhythmic journey to Regent Park.

The Our London Family Act was first introduced in 2021 by the Ontario NDP and their London MPPs after the horrific murder of the Afzaal family. This new law, if passed, would make changes to address Islamophobia in Ontario. We are asking for your input before we re-introduced the bill to ensure it continues to propose the solutions that will keep Muslim communities safe. I hope you can join and share feedback. 

Where: Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street

When: Thursday, September 19 from 6:30 PM – 8 PM

Refreshments and childminding will be provided.

RSVP here!

Speculation about Ford calling an early election is getting louder. He will do anything to get ahead of the RCMP criminal investigation into his Greenbelt corruption. And we will do everything to be ready for a snap election. 

You are invited! My nomination meeting to be your next Toronto Centre Ontario NDP candidate will be on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 6:30 PM. 

Special guests and live music will be at The Aviary restaurant at 484 Front Street East in the beautiful Canary District. 

It would mean the world to me to see you there. Join us for a memorable night. RSVP here!

I am pleased to bring you an update about the loud construction at the Don Yards that I know has been affecting so many residents’ sleep and quality of life. 

I have received confirmation that the piling and drilling will stop between 11 PM and 7 AM. Work will still take place overnight, but there will no longer be auger banging at these hours. This is a huge win thanks to the advocacy of local residents in collaboration with my office. Since this change has been in place my office has received fewer complaints, but I know that the noise is still an issue for many, especially young children and shift workers. 

I am pleased to see this progress and I will continue to monitor the issue of loud disturbances with the help of the community. If you have concerns, please continue to share them with my office at [email protected].

Kristyn with BENA President Linda Brett

On Tuesday I was thrilled to spend the evening with the Bloor East Neighbourhood Association at their annual social.

BENA members are amazing community champions of civic engagement and citybuilding in Toronto Centre. Social gatherings make our neighbourhoods of tall buildings into welcoming communities. Thank you to the wonderful staff at the Bishop and Belchor for catering the social. We love supporting our local, small businesses. 

Learn more about BENA or to get involved by visiting: BloorEast.org

Kristyn with Councillor Moise and the Friends of Ruby staff team

On Tuesday, National Suicide Prevention Day, I joined Friends of Ruby to recognize their receipt of an Ontario Trillium Grant for pre-therapy mental health supports. Friends of Ruby connects vulnerable 2SLGBTQIA+ youth to experienced professionals with lived experience to receive vital support. This work is uplifting and transformative for the youth in the process of coming out and affirming their sexual orientation and gender identity. 

I am deeply thankful for the work that Friends of Ruby is doing to care for Queer and Trans youth in our city. They really are a special organization and deserving of your support.

Kristyn with Reed in the Streets and HSquared Co-Founders

On Sunday night, Healing As One, HSquared, and so many volunteers from Regent Park gathered for a very successful basketball tournament and fundraiser. The strength of our community was on full display, and we celebrated the work of Reed in the Streets, who shares by video the stories of people experiencing homelessness in the Downtown East in their own words. Thank you to Reed in the Streets, Murwan Khogali Ali, Sara Tahir, Halima Farah, Humaira Rahman, and Leonard Swartz for supporting this event!

The latest Feed Ontario report revealed that a staggering 1 million people visited a food bank in Ontario last year — this represents a 25 percent increase from the previous year. This is horrific and unacceptable in a province as rich as Ontario. 

Everyone deserves access to good food and safe shelter – it’s a basic human right. And yet 1 in 14 of our neighbours and friends - working people, seniors and children - are forced to turn to a food bank just to survive. This is not the kind of province anyone wants to live in. The cost of everything is going up, and yet we have a government that has done nothing to make life more affordable for Ontarians. Ontarians deserve a government that takes action on affordability issues. 

There are so many simple policy changes that would lift people out of poverty. I encourage you to sign petitions to increase ODSP and OW, increase the minimum wage to $20 an hour, and institute real rent control.

Record-breaking number of Ontarians used food banks last fiscal year

‘The system has fallen apart’: A child dies every 3 days under Ontario’s care network

Man taken to hospital after shooting in downtown Toronto

Province breaks ground on 3 Ontario Line stations in Toronto

Ontario Science Centre: City inspectors scrambled to respond to shutdown, documents show

Canadian mega landlord using AI ‘pricing scheme’ as it massively hikes rents

The Church-Wellesley Village BIA, in collaboration with the National Film Board of Canada, invites the community to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barbara Hall Park (formerly Cawthra Square Park) on Saturday, September 14 at 6:30 PM.

As part of the festivities, there will be a free outdoor screening of Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story, a documentary about the trailblazing musician Jackie Shane. The event schedule is as follows:

• 6:30 PM: Seating opens (bring your own blanket or chair)
• 7:00 PM: Opening remarks
• 7:30 PM: Film screening
• 9:30 PM: Q&A session with the film's writer and co-director

Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church Street. All are welcome to enjoy this special event.

Fred Victor is hosting their annual Harvest Festival this Saturday supported by the Muslim Welfare Centre and Friends of Regent Park.

• Date: Saturday, September 14, 2024
• Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
• Location: Communal garden in the Big Park, 620 Dundas Street East

There will be children's activities, music, food, raffle and more.

The Friends of Allan Gardens are excited to present the new Community Market Series this September! 

Each Saturday, from 11 AM to 3 PM, the Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory and the new Teaching Garden will host themed markets featuring unique finds and fun activities for the whole family.

Location: Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory & Teaching Garden, 117 Carlton Street

Walk with Grassy Narrows youth and community members to show that you are with them on their path to achieving mercury justice and freedom!

• Date: September 18, 2024
• Time: 12 PM
• Location: Downtown Toronto, details TBD
• Sign up: Click here to register

This is a family-friendly event. Rain or shine!

The Young Politicians invites all youth to the Youth Civic and Political Forum on September 21 at Toronto City Hall. 

This event is an opportunity for young minds to come together, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore solutions to issues facing Toronto. Join like-minded peers and renowned leaders to explore, initiate, and debate civic and political matters. For more details, click here.

The Youth Justice Community Forum invites you to a full-day discussion focusing on barriers and supports for Black and racialized youth in the justice system. Engage with youth, community organizations, and justice professionals to explore how to collaborate in supporting justice-involved youth.

Event Details:

• Date: September 24
• Time: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Venue: Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (16 Spadina Road)

The event features an impressive lineup of speakers, including education advocates, legal professionals, and community leaders.

For more information and to secure your ticket, visit the event link or scan the QR code.

Seniors for Climate invites the community to join their nationwide movement for urgent climate action. Fossil fuel emissions continue to fuel devastating fires, floods, and extreme weather. On October 1, seniors across Canada will stand in solidarity with youth, urging the federal government to take immediate steps towards renewable energy expansion and the end of fossil fuel burning.

Toronto Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, October 1
• Time: 1:30 PM
• Location: Rally at University Avenue and Armoury

March to the Church of the Holy Trinity, 10 Trinity Square

Notable speakers include David Phillips, David Suzuki, and Lillian Allen. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, and masks are welcome.

This event is part of a larger initiative by the Seniors for Climate project, featuring over 50 events across Canada.

Butterfly invites the community to celebrate a significant milestone—their 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner!

Taking place on October 3, from 6-10 PM, at Dim Sum King 421 Dundas Street West, 3rd floor, Toronto, this special event will feature performances, reflections from allies and community members, a silent auction, and more. The evening aims to commemorate a decade of supporting Asian and migrant sex and massage workers.

• Tickets to the Gala Dinner here
• Workshop & fundraising registration here

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario Model Parliament is a three-day educational program offering high school students the chance to engage with democracy firsthand.

Event Details:

• Dates: February 19 to 21, 2025
• Location: Ontario Legislative Building, Toronto

Who Can Apply?

• Ontario students in grades 10 to 12 with an interest in government, current affairs, and provincial issues.

Why Apply?

• Participants will meet the Speaker, Members of Provincial Parliament, and other civic-minded peers, and experience how Ontario's legislature operates, including debating as an MPP.

Application Deadline: October 6, 2024

For more information and to apply, click here.

The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 11th REmarket on October 9 and 10. This two-day event focuses on collecting unwanted items, with recycling services, donation collection, and hazardous waste drop-off available.

Event Details:

• Wednesday, October 9:
  • FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
• Thursday, October 10:
  • Repair Café Toronto will fix clothing, jewellery, computers, electronics, and more from 11 AM to 3 PM.
  • CultureLink Bike Hub will offer small bike repairs and safety checks from 10 AM to 6 PM.

The event will be held at the St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade. For full details and guidelines, click here.

This year, the Indigenous Legacy Gathering will take place over four days at Nathan Philips Square, starting on September 27 and culminating in the unveiling of the Spirit Garden on Orange Shirt Day, September 30.

Stay tuned for details on vendor applications, which will be released soon. Check the event website for updates and more information.

The Youth Arts Program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario invites young artists aged 12-18 from across the province to exhibit their creative talents. This annual program showcases artwork within the Legislative Building, celebrating diverse artistic abilities.

Key details:

• Application Period: August 15 to October 15, 2024
• Eligibility: Youth aged 12-18 from Ontario
• Exhibit Location: Legislative Assembly Building, Ontario

For more information and to apply, click here. 

For questions, contact: [email protected].

Regent Park Community Health Centre and EarlyON Child & Family Centre invite families with children ages 0-6 to enjoy a special breakfast event. Come on September 14, 2024, from 10 AM to 4 PM at 38 Regent St., and learn more about the resources available through the EarlyON program. The day will feature food, games, and a raffle, making it a fun and informative outing for families in the community.

Dear friend,

This week, Jagmeet Singh officially tore up the Federal NDP’s Supply and Confidence Agreement with the Liberals. New Democrats worked hard and pushed Liberals to make life better for Canadians through this agreement. 

This doesn’t mean we are about to have a federal election ​— it means New Democrats are sending a clear signal about the progressive changes we need to see from the government over the year ahead. But lately, Liberals have shown themselves to be weak and self-serving again. Liberals caved to corporate interests when they forced binding arbitration on rail workers. Their union called on railway companies to address the labour shortage, which forced rail workers to work longer days under unsafe conditions and further away from home.

Liberals won’t be able to stand up to the Conservatives, who just want to make cuts to our public systems and enrich corporate insiders.

The Supply and Confidence agreement served Canadians well, bringing us real wins for people, like the national dental care program for millions of Canadians without coverage, ten paid sick days for federally regulated workplaces, long-awaited anti-scab legislation, and the beginnings of the national pharmacare program and national school lunch program.

The NDP has set the national agenda despite not being in government, which is an incredible achievement — my federal colleagues should be proud. But now it is time for something new. Without the agreement, Jagmeet will leverage this announcement to push the Liberals harder to do more to support Canadian families.

A federal election is coming, and Canadians will have a choice between Pierre Poilievre’s cuts and the hope and relief that Jagmeet and the NDP offer. This is a powerful moment but also an exciting one. 

It is certainly exciting for Samantha Green, the Federal NDP candidate for Toronto Centre. If you don’t know Samantha already, she is a family doctor and climate activist raising her family in Moss Park. She is a force.

I look forward to everyone meeting Samantha and experiencing her care and passion for everything in life. She will make an incredible MP and bring community voices to Ottawa.

In addition to this national news, there is local excitement: this weekend is festival weekend in Toronto Centre!

I will be at the Cabbagetown Festival, the St James Town Festival, and Rastafest in Regent Park on Saturday and the Cabbagetown Festival again on Sunday! Look out for our orange tent, where my team and I will give away fun swag, including our popular tote bags. Drop by and tell us about the issues you want your provincial government to take action on. If you want to join us – even better! You can sign up to volunteer at our booths here! Please note that Parliament Street north of Gerrard and sections of Carlton St will be accessible only by pedestrians for the festival. Please plan your visit accordingly. Hope to see you there!

Have a safe and wonderful weekend,

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Fighting for Public Healthcare? Very Demure
• Labour Day Parade
• Volunteer with Us: Cabbagetown and St James Town Festivals
• My Nomination Meeting!
• Our London Family Act - Have Your Say
• You’re Invited: Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration
• International Overdose Awareness Day
• Ontario NDP Caucus Retreat
• Toronto Dragon Festival
• Conservatives’ Failure on Healthcare
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

I couldn’t resist jumping on the “Demure” social trend to brag about how the Ontario NDP is working to protect public healthcare—and especially our frontline nurses—from cuts and privatization. I hope you find this silly video “very mindful.”

Workers are unstoppable when they are united! I was thrilled to march in another amazing Labour Day Parade with Marit Stiles and workers this past Monday. 

With the cost of living crisis and cuts to the public services people count on, we need the labour movement more than ever.

Over the past year, workers across Ontario have taken to the picket line to fight and win better wages and safer working conditions. Labour Day is a day to celebrate these accomplishments, but our work is not over.

People across the province are struggling with the rising cost of living and the skyrocketing cost of housing. Women and racialized workers are still more likely to be working precarious jobs for less pay and fewer benefits. Our healthcare system is being broken down and privatized by the Ford government. 

The lessons of the past century can guide us to a brighter future in the face of these challenges. On Labour Day and every day, New Democrats are proud to stand with Ontario’s workers in solidarity, determination, and hope.

The St James Town and Cabbagetown Festivals, as well as Rastafest Regent Park, are happening TOMORROW!  All three will take place on Saturday, September 7, and the Cabbagetown Festival spans the whole weekend, continuing until Sunday, September 8. My team will be setting up community tables in Cabbagetown and St James Town, and we need your help to collect petition signatures on critical issues and hand out fun swag!

Volunteering at these festivals is a great time to connect with the community, spread the word about important provincial issues, and enjoy a beautiful weekend with friends.

Volunteer with us! 

We have shifts at 11 AM, 2 PM, 4 PM and 4:30 PM on September 7 and 8.

When can you join us?

Speculation about Ford calling an early election is getting louder. He will do anything to get ahead of the RCMP criminal investigation into his Greenbelt corruption. And we will do everything to be ready for a snap election. 

You are invited! My nomination meeting to be your next Toronto Centre Ontario NDP candidate will be on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 6:30 PM. Special guests and live music will be at The Aviary at 484 Front Street East in the beautiful Canary District. Join us for a memorable night.

I am thrilled to partner with Neighbourhood Information Post to celebrate the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival with you.

Join us on Friday, September 13, from 3-6 PM in the Community Room at 150 River Street. The celebration is FREE, and all are welcome! 

Attendees will enjoy colourful lantern-making, moon cakes, hot drinks and food, and door prizes. 

I hope to see you there! Please RSVP here.

The Our London Family Act was first introduced in 2021 by London MPPs after the horrific murder of the Afzaal family. This new law, if passed, would make changes to stop Islamophobia in Ontario. We are asking for your input before it is re-introduced to ensure it continues to propose the solutions that will keep Muslim communities safe. I hope you can join and share feedback. 

Where: Banquet Hall, 402 Shuter St, Toronto.

When: Thursday, September 19, 6:30 PM – 8 PM

Refreshments will be provided.

Last Saturday, I was honoured to speak at the flag-raising ceremony for Overdose Awareness Day at Toronto City Hall. The Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention Toronto and Flags of Hope hosted us, two organizations that do excellent overdose awareness work all year round.

Every Overdose Awareness Day is full of grief for the people we have lost. Still, this one had an extra layer of heaviness as communities work overtime to preserve life-saving services that Ford has abruptly cancelled. I will stand with the community and fight for the evidence-based mental health care and addiction services, including harm reduction health services, that our communities deserve. 

Addictions can impact absolutely anyone. When it comes to making lives better and easier, we need to lead with support, not stigma.

This week, I attended the Ontario NDP Caucus Retreat in Windsor, where Marit Stiles and our caucus laid out our goals for the upcoming legislative session (by prioritizing housing, healthcare, and reducing the cost of living). We have been preparing for all possible election timelines since Ford could call a snap election between this fall and June 2026. Doug Ford has publicly said there will be no election this fall, but he could always change his mind and reserve course as we have seen him do many times before. So we need to continue to be ready for all possibilities. 

Last weekend, I was thrilled to attend the Toronto Dragon Festival, which celebrates the rich heritage of Chinese performing arts. This successful festival saw participation from 50 performing arts groups and 80 vendors taking over Nathan Philips Square. It was a sight to behold.

The Canadian Association for Chinese Performing Arts did an incredible job hosting and sharing traditional Chinese art with Torontonians of all backgrounds. This event allowed artists to share their talents and connect with new audiences across Toronto.

This week, the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU) released a report revealing a five-fold shortfall between the hospital capacity required by 2032 and the Ford government’s ten-year plan. 

The government has said over and over again that it plans to add 3,000 staffed hospital beds in Ontario by 2032, a number that sounds impressive until you look at the data and see that we will actually need 15,000 additional beds by that time. 

It is not news that this government has been deliberately underfunding our healthcare system, leaving Ontarians without the care they need and deserve. Healthcare should be based on needs, not means. For years, governments have ignored the growing crisis, pretending it doesn’t exist while hospitals close, nurses are driven out of the profession, and hallway healthcare worsens.

Healthcare is Ontario’s backbone, our pride and joy, but under conservative leadership, our healthcare professionals are leaving for other provinces, and our system is unrecognizable. It's time for real action and substantial investments so Ontarians can finally receive the care they deserve.

Two years after Ontario legalized virtual casinos, gambling addicts say the province has made it nearly impossible to quit – even when they want to

Ontario dropped wastewater testing early, with no plan for feds to step in: documents

Toronto inspectors scrambled to respond to Ontario Science Centre shutdown: documents | CTV News 

Would commercial rent control protect small businesses in Canada? | CBC News 

American rental price fixing tech still in use in Canada after U.S. lawsuits

Rastafest invites the community to a vibrant celebration at Regent Park, hosted at the Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas Street East) on Saturday, September 7th, 2024 -- TOMORROW!

This free event will feature live performances by Jay Douglas, Nana McLean, Otis Gayle, Shanty Sweets, and Gavin Williamson.

• Time:
  • Children & Youth Activities, Food, and Craft Vendors: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Live Concert: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Music by: DJ Chocolate & Black Heart iNiversal

Please note, the event has been moved indoors. It promises an exciting lineup of activities for all ages.

The Friends of Allan Gardens are excited to present the new Community Market Series this September! 

Each Saturday, from 11 AM to 3 PM, the Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory and the new Teaching Garden will host themed markets featuring unique finds and fun activities for the whole family.

Location: Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory & Teaching Garden, 117 Carlton Street.

Join your BENA Operations Committee at the Bishop and Belcher on September 10 at 6:30 PM for their third Annual Social!

Please RSVP to [email protected] by Friday September 6.

See the poster attached for further details or visit their website here.

The Toronto Rape Crisis Centre/Multicultural Women Against Rape (TRCC/MWAR) invites the community to the 40th annual Take Back the Night on Thursday, September 12. This event honours survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and state violence, including police brutality and other forms of institutional oppression.

Event Details:

• Rally: 6 PM
• March: 7 PM
• Location: Christie Pits Park, 750 Bloor Street West
• Theme: 40 Years of Reclaiming the Streets

This year’s march continues the movement’s dedication to decolonisation and resistance against settler colonialism and heteropatriarchy. Let’s come together to celebrate survivorship, resiliency, empowerment, healing, and activism.

The event is wheelchair accessible and includes ASL interpretation. It is open to everyone and is a queer and trans-positive space.

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Marshall or Accessibility Team (Training dates: September 5 and 10)

For more information, visit the TRCC/MWAR website.

The Foundation for Environmental Stewardship (FES) is offering grants through its "Funding for Net-Zero" program to support student-led projects to reduce emissions in schools across Canada. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 are available for students in grades 6-12 who are ready to take action for a sustainable future. This initiative provides students with hands-on experiences and education related to achieving net-zero emissions.

The application deadline is September 12, and FES encourages educators and youth across the country to apply.

The City of Toronto is inviting residents to provide input on implementing a new renovictions bylaw modelled after successful initiatives in other cities across Canada.

In June, Toronto City Council directed City staff to create a bylaw in response to the growing trend of renovictions in Toronto, where a landlord illegitimately evicts a tenant by alleging that vacant possession of the rental unit is required to make renovations or repairs, leading to situations where landlords increase rents significantly or refuse to allow tenants to return to their homes. This results in the displacement of tenants, the permanent loss of affordable rental housing, and contributes to rising homelessness in Toronto.

To inform the development of the bylaw, the City is engaging with tenants, landlords, and residents impacted by renovictions. Staff will report back to the Planning and Housing Committee with a proposed renovictions bylaw in October.

Online survey

Residents are encouraged to share their insights and experiences by completing the online survey on the City's website by Monday, September 30.

Drop-in sessions

The City is also hosting in-person and virtual consultation meetings: 

City-wide Online Session

Date: Monday, September 9

Time: 7 to 8.30 PM

Zoom Online Meeting: Click the link or join by phone at 647-374-4685

Meeting ID: 369 644 7895

Passcode: 740975

Downtown Toronto

Date: Friday, September 13

Time: 1:30 to 3.30 PM

Location: 55 John Street – Rotunda (main floor)

More information on the Renovictions Policy Implementation report is available on the City’s website.

The Toronto Newcomer Council invites refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers to the "Empowerment Through Employment: Refugees and Newcomers Career Navigation Seminar 2024" on September 13-14 at 163 Queen Street East. This event will connect participants with employers, training institutions, and service agencies, offering valuable insights into the Canadian job market.

Event Highlights:

• Panel Discussions & Q&A Sessions: Explore challenges and opportunities in the Canadian labour market.
• Workshops: Hands-on training in resume writing, cover letter preparation, and interview techniques.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with employers and fellow job seekers.
• Exhibition Booths: Engage with organizations showcasing employment resources.
• Expert Talks: Gain career navigation advice from professionals.

Attendees can meet potential employers, enhance job readiness skills, and access tailored employment programs. Register here to secure a spot.

Walk with Grassy Narrows youth and community members to show that you are with them on their path to achieve mercury justice and freedom!

Date: September 18, 2024

Time: 12 PM

Location: Downtown Toronto, details TBD

Sign up: Click here to register

This is a family-friendly event. Rain or shine!

The Young Politicians invites all youth to the Youth Civic and Political Forum on September 21 at Toronto City Hall. This event is an opportunity for young minds to come together, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore solutions to issues facing Toronto. Join like-minded peers and renowned leaders to explore, initiate, and debate on civic and political matters. For more details, click here.

Wildlands League and Mushkegowuk Council are delighted to present Tawich in the City, where Indigenous music meets science meets art and much more.

Tawich* has been a hidden gem until now. This one night only event will connect your heart, soul, and mind to Canada's great inland sea and its incredible people!

You will see astonishing wildlife footage by the award-winning Water Brothers and hear from the Omushkego leaders like Mushkegowuk Council’s Deputy Grand Chief Natasha Martin, Peawanuck’s Sam Hunter, and Juno Award winner Lawrence Martin, who is galvanizing the protection of his peoples’ sacred lands and waters.

September 25, 2024 | 7:00 PM

• Tikcets: $55.00+
• Venue: Koerner Hall
• Genre: Art & Conversation, Indigenous Music
• Presenter: Wildlands League & Mushkegowuk Council

Seniors for Climate invites the community to join their nationwide movement for urgent climate action. Fossil fuel emissions continue to fuel devastating fires, floods, and extreme weather. On October 1, seniors across Canada will stand in solidarity with youth, urging the federal government to take immediate steps towards renewable energy expansion and the end of fossil fuel burning.

Toronto Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, October 1
• Time: 1:30 PM
• Location: Rally at University Avenue and Armoury

March to the Church of the Holy Trinity, 10 Trinity Square

Notable speakers include David Phillips, David Suzuki, and Lillian Allen. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, and masks are welcome.

This event is part of a larger initiative by the Seniors for Climate project, featuring over 50 events across Canada.

The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 11th REmarket on October 9 and 10. This two-day event focuses on collecting unwanted items, with recycling services, donation collection, and hazardous waste drop-off available.

Event Details:

• Wednesday, October 9:
  • FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
• Thursday, October 10:
  • Repair Café Toronto will fix clothing, jewellery, computers, electronics, and more from 11 AM to 3 PM.
  • CultureLink Bike Hub will offer small bike repairs and safety checks from 10 AM to 6 PM.

The event will be held at the St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade. For full details and guidelines, click here.

Do you know of an exemplary project, group or person who has shown leadership, commitment and the best practice in heritage conservation this past year? Help the Ontario Heritage Trust recognize and celebrate them by submitting a nomination for the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Awards.

Nomination deadline: October 11, 2024

This year, the Indigenous Legacy Gathering will take place over four days at Nathan Philips Square, starting on September 27 and culminating in the unveiling of the Spirit Garden on Orange Shirt Day, September 30.

Stay tuned for details on vendor applications, which will be released soon. Check the event website for updates and more information.