As I work to advocate for our communities, I will be sharing updates of my work through a continuation of my regular newsletter.
You can choose if you to receive local updates, provincial updates, or both!
As I work to advocate for our communities, I will be sharing updates of my work through a continuation of my regular newsletter.
You can choose if you to receive local updates, provincial updates, or both!
Dear Emma, Congratulations! All of our organizing, protesting, petitioning, and activism worked, and we saved the Greenbelt. After months of denial and dodging, Doug Ford was forced to backtrack fully and apologize to Ontarians for his Greenbelt Grab. I am incredibly proud of everyone involved, but especially all of you who joined ONDP Leader Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP Caucus in fighting back against the corruption in the Ford government. We knew something stunk and didn’t stop digging until we found the answers. I also want to thank the many talented investigative journalists who once again demonstrated that independent and truthful media is essential in promoting and protecting our democracy rights. The resignation of two senior PC staff and two cabinet ministers would not have happened with the truth-revealing work of Ontario’s Auditor General and Integrity Commissioner. It never should have taken a series of scandals from this government for the Premier to undo the damage he's done. It shouldn't have taken Mr. Ford and his ministers getting caught making shady backroom deals with speculators. This whole scandal has pulled back the curtain on a corrupt Conservative government all too comfortable making backroom deals. While people are struggling with a housing crisis. Ford has wasted people's time rather than implementing actual solutions to the housing crisis - something this Greenbelt grab was never about. Ford still has a lot more questions to answer. Two ministers have resigned. Conservative staff have resigned. There’s a potential RCMP investigation. And all roads lead back to the Premier’s office. This Greenbelt victory shows us that organizing works! And that the work that the ONDP caucus and party staff do is making a real difference in Ontario. But we can’t do it without your support. This is just one fight of many we are facing in Ontario. And we need to make sure that we have the organizing money power to continue to keep the pressure on Ford. Will you help us?
Kristyn Wong-Tam MPP, Toronto Centre
Today Ontarians learned that Monte McNaughton, the current labour Minister, will be leaving his role as a Minister and an MPP for the private sector. David Piccini, the current Environment Minister, will become the new Labour Minister. Andrea Khanjin, the current MPP for Barrie-Innisfil, will become the new Environment Minister. Todd McCarthy will be replacing Kaleed Rasheed as the Minister for Public and Business Service Delivery after MPP Rasheed was removed from the PC caucus because he accepted inappropriate gifts from developers during a trip to Las Vegas. David Piccini’s track record does not bode well for workers. After suddenly realizing the importance of the Greenbelt, why has Mr. Ford appointed a labour minister whose greatest hits as environment minister include: being radio silent as the government took away the power of conservation authorities, hiding a damning climate report from Ontarians for eight months, looking away from the Mimico Creek spill, and saying next to nothing on the Greenbelt? Premier Ford has wasted a whole year that could have been spent implementing real solutions, delivering affordable homes for the hard-working people of our province instead of on this nonsense that eroded Ontarians’ trust in government and potentially left taxpayers on the hook for decisions he made in the interest of land speculators and donors. Now, the Premier has a new cabinet two days before the Legislature returns for session. Ontarians are left asking: is this government serious about solving the issues facing Ontarians? Or are they too busy reorganizing the deck chairs?”
Doug Ford is a bully. Ontarians paid that price this week when so-called “hands off our kids” rallies took place across Ontario. The rallies were rooted in misinformation that radical conservatives have been spreading about 2SLGBTQI+ families and our public education system. Starting from the Church Wellesley Village, I marched alongside the (larger) counter-protest to Queen’s Park. I want to thank everybody who showed up and helped organize this important counter rally. Parents, students, school trustees, faith leaders, teachers, education workers, health care workers, business leaders, union members, The 519 and a broad rainbow coalition of community organizations and social agencies that stood strong against misguided hate. Parents are telling me their concerns about a so-called “gender ideology” being taught in schools. This is a fake label created by conservative politicians and religious fundamentalists in 2017 to describe social advancements in gender equality, reproductive health, and 2SLGBTQI human rights. Loving, well-intentioned parents are being misled by radical conservatives. They are told that their children are being “indoctrinated” with “gender ideology” and encouraged to keep their gender identity a secret at home. This is NOT true. Ontario schools and teachers are only following specific education guidelines set out by the Ford Conservative government. Doug Ford has a responsibility to correct the record and instead chooses to join in the chorus of misinformation. We have to put this situation into perspective: what we are disagreeing about is the minority of situations, where a Trans child or youth has felt safe enough to express their gender at school but not at home. We should be celebrating that Ontario’s schools and education workers offer those safe spaces. We should be increasing the supports offered to 2SLGBTQI+ families, not forcing them to make the often impossible decision of either expressing themselves at school or staying safe at home. 2SLGBTQI+ communities are feeling hurt and afraid. But Ontario does not even have a plan to combat growing radicalization against our communities. The fear and trauma that Two-Spirit, Queer, and Trans Ontarians are feeling is Doug Ford’s fault. Ontario’s NDP has called for a strategy to combat hate crimes, we have tabled legislation to combat rising threats, and this government has refused to lift a finger. Doug Ford needs to own up to his own education curriculum and let Ontarians know—by his actions — which side he is on now.
Doug Ford is actively making the climate crisis worse — most recently, by attempting to carve up the Greenbelt — and Ontario’s climate change impact assessment is an inconvenient reminder of the risk that climate change poses to Ontarians’ health, livelihoods and property. The report was presented to the government in January and quietly released August 25, with no announcement from the government, as the Premier and his ministers have attempted to cover up their Greenbelt corruption scandal. It outlines the frightening impacts of climate change that Ontarians are likely to face, from worse floods to longer droughts to bigger fires. These impacts will result in higher insurance bills, greater property damage, and increased food insecurity. “The Premier is focused on one thing, and that’s doing favours for insider developers and speculators while not just ignoring the climate crisis, but actively making it worse,” said MPP Peter Tabuns, the Official Opposition NDP critic for Climate Action. “The assessment makes clear what Ontarians already know: the climate crisis is here and it’s frightening. We need a government that takes real action to mitigate the impacts, protect people, and prevent further damage, instead of this deliberate neglect," said MPP Sandy Shaw, NDP critic for the Environment, Conservation, and Parks. The NDP will continue to push for real leadership on the climate crisis.
Long-term, market rent-paying tenants from 30 Charles Street East are being forced out of their homes because of Ontario's outdated Residential Tenancies Act and the predatory behaviour of short-term rent companies. MPP Jessica Bell, Fair BnB Canada, and I spoke on this issue to hear how a simple change in ownership has been devastating to tenants. Tenants at 30 Charles St. E. are facing harassment, hydro and heat being cut off unexpectedly, ignored maintenance requests, and construction outside of municipal guidelines. All of this intimidates tenants to move so that Harrington House can add to their short-term rental supply and skirt provincial laws. They have waited months for a hearing at the LTB. As they wait, their tenant rights are being ignored. A law is only as good as its enforcement.
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi everyone! Thank you to the Toronto Sri Mahaganapathy Temple for the warm welcome for all your festivities. I wish everyone celebrating the utmost prosperity and joy!
Join the Ontario Health Coalition on the first day of the new legislative session to send a strong message to Doug Ford and his government — healthcare is not for sale and needs massive public investment to serve Ontarians appropriately. RSVP here When: September 25, 12 PM Where: Queen’s Park South Lawn
Do you live in Regent Park in a market-rate apartment or condo? The Regent Park Neighbourhood Association is looking for two new members just like you! Have a voice in your community, meet your neighbours, and increase social cohesion and inclusion! If you are interested, send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]
Calling all succulent lovers! Come down to Allan Gardens on Sunday, September 24th from 11am-4pm to purchase plants and enjoy the conservatory!
Need to polish up your resume? Join Times Change Women’s Employment Services and learn how to create a resume that will stand out! When: September 25 via Zoom 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM OR book an appointment to work one-on-one with a career counsellor, email [email protected] *If you are already a client, please contact [email protected] and specify which workshop you would like to register for.
Families in Regent Park are invited to “Borrow a Grandparent” and spend time with older adults in the community and enjoy storytelling, games, music, button making, and reading. When: Saturday, September 30, 2-4pm Where: Daniels Spectrum Community Living Room (585 Dundas St East)
On September 27th, at noon five First Nations from Northern Ontario will come to Toronto to lead a march calling on Premier Ford to end unwanted mining activity on our Territories. These five strong First Nations have formed a historic alliance to protect our lands and waters in the face of mounting concerns about encroachment on our territories by mining exploration companies who the Ford Government has enabled.
ICON Talent Partners is now accepting applications from interested candidates for their 2023-2024 Fellowship class. Their Fellowship is a comprehensive 6-month program whereby they expose top BIPOC talent to competitive careers in sectors such as banking/finance, management consulting, venture capital, private equity, technology/innovation, startups, sports/entertainment and much much more! This completely FREE program strives to expose BIPOC high school students, university students, graduate/professional students and young professionals to the multitude of opportunities and careers that exist and which they can excel. |
Dear Emma,
I want to wish everyone celebrating a happy Rosh Hashanah! I hope that the year ahead of us brings everyone the best of health, happiness, and success.
This was another eventful week in provincial politics, with Global News publishing Ford’s mandate letters from 2018. CBC also reported that Ford spent over 1672 hours of Crown Attorney's time fighting their release. Ford’s mandate letters show a pattern we saw during his first term — he is fixated on cutting the public services we rely on.
It is crucial to stress that Ford has not published his mandate letters from the current 2022-2026 term.
On a lighter note, I want to thank all our amazing volunteers and community members who came out for the St. James Town and Cabbagetown Festivals last weekend! The streets were packed, and our local shops were busy. In fact, our big orange NDP tent had so many visitors that we’ll need to re-order new swag to replenish our supplies. What a way to wrap up the summer!
To round out the busy week, yesterday I returned to Queen’s Park for Estimates Committee meetings, where I asked pointed questions to the Solicitor General and the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery. The Estimates Committee is a standing committee where we review how the government is spending the money allocated in the budget and have the opportunity to question Ministers and government staff.
I used this opportunity to draw attention to a series of news stories this week about the crisis in Ontario Courts. It was reported that Judges are refusing to sit in Ontario’s Milton courthouse because it is literally falling apart, while Liberal and PC governments have ignored courthouse workers calling for urgently needed repairs. You can see my CP24 interview here or listen to my interview on Newstalk 1010 here.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
Regent Park OUT LOUD |
This upcoming Sunday, September 17, is Regent Park’s newest Pride event, OUT LOUD!
This one-day block party is themed to promote equity and inclusivity. Join us on Regent Park Boulevard from 12 PM to 7 PM. You can register and find out more about this fantastic event here.
Our team will be there all day, so please come by to say hi! Look for our big orange tent, where we will be giving away more prizes. There will also be music, vendors, entertainers, arts & crafts, cotton candy, children's games, and even a cookie bar. Yes, you read that right, a cookie bar!
Happy 30th Birthday PAL! |
Happy 30th Birthday to Toronto's Performing Arts Lodge!
PAL provides invaluable housing and support to performing artists and arts workers. They were early pioneers of the St Lawrence neighbourhood and helped create a beautiful community.
PAL teamed up with Commfest to host a joyful block-long celebration on Market Street. I have been a champion of PAL and co-op housing my entire life and public career, and I couldn’t be prouder to celebrate this significant milestone with them!
Ontario Place News |
Leader Marit Stiles and Ontario NDP have condemned new renderings of Ford’s Ontario Place scheme. MPP Chris Glover represents the riding of Spadina Fort York, home of the beautiful natural waterfront habitat that Ontario Place rests on. I want to share my colleague’s statement here, which I fully support:
Ontario Place’s West Island is a mature forest that provides habitat to more than 125 species of birds, as well as mink, beavers, and foxes. It’s a precious greenspace in Downtown Toronto, where that is pretty rare. Just like carving up the Greenbelt, this is a real disservice to our environment and to future generations of Ontarians.
It shows how committed this government is to these shady backroom deals, especially in light of their Greenbelt corruption scandal. Here, they’re pushing forward with a backroom deal that emerged from a shady procurement process that gave a private corporation, Therme Group, control over some of Canada's most valuable public parkland.
The entire process surrounding the Ontario Place lease has been deeply flawed and shrouded in secrecy. This 'new' footprint is nothing but a regurgitation of their old, recycled plan. Ontario Place is public land cherished by generations of Ontarians. A 95-year lease that forces the public to pay half a billion dollars for a new parking garage while handing over public land to a private luxury spa is wrong.
Let's be clear - this is not what Ontarians want. Given this government's track record of scandals and questionable backroom deals, we have every right to be deeply troubled. The Ford Conservatives must cancel this lease and go back to the drawing board to engage in a fair and transparent process that truly respects the wishes and concerns of Ontarians."
The procurement process surrounding this luxury spa has been marred by flaws, including recent revelations from an FOI report that no fairness monitor was in place, raising serious concerns about transparency and fairness.
ONDP files elections complaint over questionable donations to Ford’s Conservative Party |
Amidst the Ford Conservatives’ corruption scandal, the Ontario NDP has filed an official complaint with Elections Ontario over questionable donations made to the Conservative Party.
The donations in question appear to be from Municipal Solutions, a lobbying company helmed by John Mutton, who multiple sources identify as the “Mr. X” from the Integrity Commissioner’s report.
Ford’s Conservative Party can’t say who paid for these donations, which were for tickets to a record-breaking $6 million fundraiser held behind closed doors. Official documents suggest Municipal Solutions purchased two $1,500 tickets to a Conservative fundraiser and gave them to municipal politicians.
The Conservative Party’s required donations disclosures to Elections Ontario do not include the names of Mutton, the two municipal politicians who used the tickets, or Municipal Solutions.
In a letter to Elections Ontario, Provincial Director Kevin Beaulieu asked the Chief Electoral Officer to investigate these – and other – donations made to the Conservatives.
Ontario’s Election Finances Act prohibits political parties from accepting corporate donations. Donations may also not be made on behalf of someone else.
Read Beaulieu’s full letter here.
New TTC improvements: Thanks to our new Mayor, Olivia Chow |
Recently, the City of Toronto and the Toronto Transit Commission have announced two pieces of big news. First, all TTC subway riders will be getting cellphone service starting October 3rd! Torontonians will no longer have to be brought back to the stone age when they ride the subway. After over a decade, Mayor Olivia Chow and François-Philippe Champagne, Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, have successfully ended Rogers’ hold over underground wireless coverage.
More exciting news is that TTC service is restored to near pre-pandemic levels this fall. Aside from initial service cuts in 2020 due to the pandemic, previous Mayor John Tory again cut service on the TTC back in May of 2023. You can read more about how the TTC is returning to full service here, including in Scarborough.
Upcoming Community Events |
ACT NOW! Stop Demovictions/Renovictions!
|
ACTNOW is hoisting a rally against demovictions and renovictions this coming October 2 at 5 PM at City Hall. Tenants, this is your time to speak out!
This will be a public call to action to demand government prioritize affordable, purpose-built rental buildings in Toronto. We are seeing a record number of rental units being destroyed, leaving our affordable housing stock meager and forcing seniors, families, and low-income individuals into dire financial stress.
You can see ACTNOW’s complete list of demands here — I’m looking forward to seeing you there!
BOLT Youth in Trades Info Session |
Are you 17-29 years old and interested in a career in the trades? This information session hosted by BOLT, Tridel's charitable arm, is for you! Learn about the finishing trades, understand how to start your career, and enjoy a complimentary lunch.
When: Wednesday, September 20, 12-3 PM
Where: Yonge Street Mission, 306 Gerrard Street East
Downtown East Action Plan Community Forum |
The Downtown East Action Plan provides a set of actions to coordinate City services and address complex challenges in Toronto’s Downtown East related to poverty, homelessness, community safety, mental health, substance use, and the drug poisoning crises.
Join Fred Victor for their final Community Forum on Wednesday, September 20th, from 6 PM to 8 PM at the John Ines Community Center. Share your thoughts about the action plan, hear updates, and discuss practical next steps.
Regent Park Harvest Festival |
Join Fred Victor, Friends of Regent Park, and Muslim Welfare Canada on Saturday, September 16, for their annual Harvest Festival. Celebrate Regent Park gardeners, enjoy a community meal, kids’s activities, a raffle, and more!
The event will be hosted in the Big Park Communal Garden at 620 Dundas Street East from 11 AM-1:30 PM.
If you have questions, email Ashrafi Ahmedat [email protected]. See you there!
Keep Healthcare Public - Mass Protest at Queen’s Park |
Join the Ontario Health Coalition on the first day of the new legislative session to send a strong message to Doug Ford and his government — healthcare is not for sale and needs massive public investment to serve Ontarians appropriately. RSVP here
When: September 25, 12 PM
Where: Queen’s Park South Lawn
Regent Park Film Festival - Screening of Shooting Indians |
Regent Park Film Festival is excited to host a special FREE community screening of the 1997 documentary Shooting Indians: A Journey with Jeffrey Thomas. Join them for this free event, followed by a talkback with the filmmakers! RSVP here, and tickets are first-come, first-served.
When: Thursday, September 21 - doors open at 6:30 PM, movie starts at 7:00 PM.
Where: Imagine Cinemas Carlton Cinema - 20 Carlton Street
Dear Neighbour,
The beginning of September signifies a return to school and the Labour Day long weekend. With the CNE in full swing, eager parents and students have a few days left to take it all in.
This week, Artscape announced it has been placed into receivership. They are a cultural institution that has operated successfully in Toronto for over 30 years by providing creative spaces and residences for artists. Like many in Toronto Centre, I’m concerned for the future of those who live in Artscape's live/work apartments or rely on their community hub and services such as those in Regent Park.
Over the years in conversations with Artscape staff, board members, and most recently with the CEO, I have expressed my support for dedicated and expanded arts funding.
The Ford Conservatives have failed to invest in the arts and non-profit housing models similar to what Artscape has offered creatives for years. To create a truly vibrant and successful arts and cultural sector in Ontario, we need a provincial arts funding strategy, including inflation-indexed and sustained investment in the Ontario Art Council to reverse years of Conservative cuts.
On a personal note, this summer has been incredibly challenging as my wife is still receiving cancer treatment. Farrah is the bravest person I know and I’m incredibly proud of her. Recently, my father has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer and as I support him and Farrah with their treatment plans, I’m in awe of the hardworking health care professionals who go above and beyond to take care of our loved ones. They deserve our deepest gratitude. As an MPP, watching firsthand the deficits in the health care system, I’m re-committed now more than ever to fight for real investments to ensure our healthcare system is strong, viable and stays public forever.
Many thanks to the residents of Toronto Centre who have stopped me on the street to offer kindness or sent along their good wishes. It means more to me than you can ever imagine. I am so proud to represent you.
Read ahead for select community events and festivals that are free and fun for everyone.
Stay safe and enjoy the long weekend ahead.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
Integrity Commissioner Calls Out Steve Clark |
This week, we learned of another damning piece of the puzzle in the Ford government’s disturbing pattern of corruption. We learned that Steve Clark has been found to have breached two sections of the Member’s Integrity Act – an important code of ethics that all government members agree to follow when Ontarians trust us with public office.
With each new piece of information, we’re seeing how far up this corruption goes. Ontarians deserve nothing less than full accountability from this Minister who used his public position to benefit a select few ultra-wealthy developers. Ford must demand his resignation instead of protecting his minister.
The size of this scandal is outrageous. This Minister clearly broke the law with his involvement in these dirty deals.
However, Doug Ford is doubling down on his defence of Steve Clark, and even getting aggressive towards journalists — which you can watch here.
Ontarians deserve so much better than fake apologies. His words are meaningless without any action to back them up. Ford must step up, show some leadership, and kick Clark out of cabinet. Then get us all back in the Legislature so we can restore all of these lands back to the Greenbelt.
Background and Quick Facts:
Public Pressure is Working
While Ford refuses to listen to Ontarians, common sense, or even the Integrity Commissioner, his team is clearly worried and potentially beginning to buckle.This week the government began to return two parcels of land to the Greenbelt after its owners’ listed the land as being for sale. This is not nearly enough to fix the mess he made — but coming from a Premier who refuses to fire a blatantly corrupt cabinet Minister, it shows how deeply anxious Ford’s team is right now.
To help keep up public pressure, the Ontario NDP launched a new website that I invite you to share with your networks — HasSteveClarkResignedYet.ca.
Hey! Lecce! Leave Trans Kids Alone! |
Earlier this week, Ford’s Education Minister Stephen Lecce refused to commit to keeping Trans students safe at school. He was asked if Ontario would bring forward legislation that could force education workers to out Trans and non-binary students without their permission that could put students at further risk — even when their parents are anti-Trans.
According to the Trans Pulse Health Survey, 35% of Trans Ontarians have seriously considered suicide in the last year, and 11.2% have attempted suicide. Social support — in places like schools — reduces that risk and keeps Trans students safe. We must recognize that in the schools and at homes, the safety of children and youth must come first - above all else. Minister Lecce is not better informed about the safety of home environments than the students navigating them in real-time.
This week, Leader Marit Stiles, Education Critic Chandra Pasma and I as your 2SLGBTQI+ Critic held a roundtable with education stakeholders to discuss how to ensure schools are safe and welcoming for all students and staff in the rise of anti-2SLGBTQI hate. Here is our statement.
Ontario’s NDP will do everything in our power to fight anti-Trans legislation if the Ford government chooses to bring harmful new bills forward. We have already tabled legislation to expand Gender Affirming Health Care and create 2SLGBTQI+ Safety Zones in the last year.
Labour Day Parade - March with the NDP |
Join Marit Stiles, Jagmeet Singh and our Toronto caucus as we take the streets with over 20,000 labour members to honour the past, present and future victories of the Labour Movement at this year’s annual Labour Day Parade. The NDP is the party of working people and we will never waiver in our solidarity with the labour movement. We will be in the lead section of the parade.
This year, the Toronto York Region Labour Council highlights our collective strength and solidarity with the theme, "Year of the Union. Worker Power, Lifting Communities.”
As we march through the heart of Toronto, we'll be showcasing the vital role that unions play in improving our workplaces, our neighbourhoods, and our lives. From workplace challenges to the cost of living crisis, it’s through our collective power that we can inspire positive change and uplift not only ourselves but also the communities we're a part of. When we stand together, we can uplift entire communities.
WHEN: September 4, departure at 9:30 AM sharp
WHERE: NDP contingent will meet at Queen & Simcoe at 9:15 AM
Let's march in solidarity, showing the world the true impact of worker power. Let's continue to advocate for fair treatment, better conditions, and a brighter future for all!
Hot Labour Summer |
2023 has been a ‘Hot Labour Summer’ (to use a term circulating on social media) with many strikes and wins by workers united for fairness.
This week, Unifor announced that Metro workers’ strike has ended with an agreement that secures historic wins for frontline workers. Toronto Centre New Democrats and I had the honour of joining Metro workers every week on the picket lines in Toronto Centre to show support for their demands. Congratulations!
In additional good news, USW announced today that a second Starbucks in Ontario has successfully voted to unionize!
While good news abounds when workers organize, TVO workers’ strike is continuing. To quote my colleague NDP MPP Jill Andrew, “TVO is, and has been, more than a channel to us. More than a broadcaster. It educates us. It entertains us. In many ways, it helped raise us. This doesn't happen without its workers, who for too long, have been kept down with wage freezes or increases well-below inflation (equalling a cut), moving from temporary contract to temporary contract, all without benefits of permanent placement.”
I look forward to greeting and encouraging TVO workers during the Labour Day Parade!
On a final note, the Toronto Centre NDP’s 2021 training on how to unionize your workplace remains relevant. You can share it with any family members, friends, or colleagues you know at this link.
Recognizing Overdose Awareness Day |
Yesterday I stood with community organizations including parents who lost their children to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day. Last year in Canada 7328 died from overdose. That’s 20 people a day. 34% of deaths are in Ontario.
We know solutions to preventing overdose deaths include moving away from criminalization to remove the stigma, making drug-quality testing freely available to guarantee a safe supply, and funding affordable, supportive housing, and crisis beds for those seeking treatment.
I want to specifically thank the Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention, Women's College Hospital, META-PHI, FAR Canada, Africans in Partnership Against AIDS, and African and Caribbean Council on HIV/AIDS in Ontario for your vital work every day of the year.
To frontline harm reduction workers: when things finally change — and they will — it will be because of the difficult and life-transforming work you are doing today.
Festival Weekend is Coming Up! Volunteer with Us! |
The St James Town and Cabbagetown Festivals are coming up! Both are held on September 9 and the Cabbagetown Festival spans the whole weekend, including September 10. My team will be setting up a community table at the two events and we need your help to give away Back to School supplies and other cool 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 new friends.
Cabbagetown Festival — Volunteer with us!
We have shifts at 11 AM, 2 PM, and 3:30 PM on Saturday the 9 and Sunday September 10.
St James Town Festival — Volunteer with us!
We have shifts at 2 PM, and 4:30 PM on Saturday the 9. When can you join us?
Olivia Chow Wins TTC Service Increase |
Mayor Olivia Chow announced on Monday that TTC Service will increase to 93% of pre-pandemic levels after Labour Day to accommodate an expected influx of riders. Service will be increased to 95% by November, with bus service at 99% of pre-pandemic levels
From Tues., Sept. 5, the TTC will be restoring 126 school trips for elementary and secondary schools, and will be increasing frequency on nine routes that serve post-secondary institutions.
“More TTC service means more room on board, shorter wait times, and better reliability for all transit users,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “By reinvesting some of the $60 million originally budgeted to operate Line 5, there will be 280,000 weekly customer trips with scheduled service improvements by November, with service almost back to pre-pandemic levels. Most of this investment will be in the bus network, where we know demand is greatest.”
By November, more Scarborough transit users will have a direct bus route to the subway, without needing to transfer to other buses.
New Data Supports Shopping Local! |
For every dollar spent at a small business, 66 cents on average stays in the local community, compared to just 11 cents of every dollar from large multinational companies, according to new data from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).
Shopping local is more fun, often more convenient, and keeps our local economies humming. Support a local business this weekend and post about it using #ShopLocal and #SmallBusinessEveryDay
Upcoming Community Events |
Regent Park Harvest Festival |
Join Fred Victor, Friends of Regent Park, and Muslim Welfare Canada on Saturday, September 16 for their annual Harvest Festival. Celebrate Regent Park gardeners, enjoy a community meal, kids’s activities, a raffle, and more! The event will be hosted in the Big Park Communal Garden at 620 Dundas Street East, from 11 AM-1:30 PM. If you have questions email Ashrafi Ahmedat [email protected]. See you there!
St. Lawrence ReMarket |
Join the SLNA’s Waste Reduction Group for their 8th Annual ReMarket to recycle your unwanted items, repair broken items, get your bike repaired, or bring home some new (to you) items from the Free Market. This event runs Wednesday September 20 from 10 AM-7 PM and Thursday, September 21 from 11 AM to 3 PM. Different services are offered each day so be sure to visit the SLNA’s website for full details.
Participate in Toronto’s Noise Bylaw Review Process |
The City of Toronto is hosting a series of public consultations as they carry out an Implementation Review of the City’s Noise Bylaw. Your voice deserves to be heard.
Consultations are taking place in-person and virtually between September 12 to 21 - sign up here.
Email SubmissionsYou can also submit your feedback by emailing [email protected]. Deadline to submit feedback is October 15, 2023.
Skills for Success for Women - Dixon Hall |
Starting September 5, 2023, Dixon Hall Employment Services offers an eight-week FREE computer training followed by 3 months of assistance for employment or Literature and Basic Skills training.
This initiative is open exclusively to unemployed women.
Services will be delivered in hybrid mode (in person at the Regent Park Community Centre with one-on-one support, and via virtual platforms).
The first cohort of 10 women will start the program on September 5, and our instructors will deliver the following modules: Basic Computer Skills, How to use a Smart Phone at work, Creative Writing, etc. Wrap Around Coaching, Building Resilience and Career Development, Canadian Workplace Culture, Job search workshop, Professional Communication, In-Depth Resume Writing, and Cover Letter sessions are built in as well in this training.
Resiliency & Retention Training from the Hospitality Workers Training Centre |
Learn how to deliver great customer service and boost your career in hospitality.
Working in hospitality and tourism requires great customer service skills. This free, in-person, two-day program was developed by OTEC and gives you a hands-on approach to learning how to deliver good customer service, including customer service essentials, stress management, and emotional intelligence.
The program is being held on two upcoming weekends, September 23 and 24, as well as October 21 and 22.
This has been another full week of news about the Greenbelt and this government’s corrupt handover of billions of dollars to their favoured developers. In this newsletter, I will continue to keep you updated on this scandal as it develops.
We are also in the thick of festival season in Toronto Centre! Keep reading for details about The 519’s Back to School Bash, Freedom Fest, Summer Chill Fest, the St James Town Festival, and the Cabbagetown Festival!
Greenbelt Update - The Rot Starts at the Top with Minister Steve Clark |
Doug Ford’s backroom Greenbelt deals are starting to rot from the inside out. Two of the Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister’s staffers have resigned and just this morning the government backtracked on the removal of one large parcel of Greenbelt land in Caledon. This is a huge victory! And it’s a reminder that our pressure on the government is working - we have to keep it up! Please continue to email the Minister, share information, and get involved with local groups fighting for our greenbelt. Minister Clark needs to resign in disgrace over this colossal scandal.
I also want to echo what our leader Marit Stiles had to say about Minister Clark’s Chief of Staff’s resignation:
“This is the bare minimum of accountability for one of the most serious breaches of public trust in Ontario’s history. The Auditor General’s report was very clear—this staffer obviously didn’t act independently.
Now it’s time that the Minister take responsibility, do the right thing, and step down; time that the government recall the Legislature so we can restore these lands to the Greenbelt for protection; and time for the Conservatives to start providing Ontarians with the transparency and accountability they deserve.
Mr. Ford needs to face the music.”
I also join my colleague Catherine Fife in calling for the Ontario Legislature’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts to prioritize the Auditor General’s Greenbelt report, so it is the first order of business when the Committee resumes.
The Ontario NDP will use every available legislative tool to get to the bottom of this scandal and end corruption at Queen’s Park. It is sickening but not shocking that Ford Conservatives continue to disregard due process, accountability, and transparency. Instead, they seem to be actively encouraging and perpetuating corruption to the tune of billions of dollars and thousands of hectares of priceless protected land.
MPP Fife’s letter to the committee cited precedents to prioritizing the Auditor General’s Special Reports, including those on the Liberal government’s Ornge and gas plants scandals.
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts can conduct public hearings, calling representatives from the government and the broader public sector, with the goal of providing analysis and recommendations to the Legislature.
The Official Opposition NDP has also formally requested that the Legislature be recalled immediately to return the lands to the Greenbelt for protection.
Marit at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario |
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles delivered a passionate speech to assembled delegates at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference on Monday. In that speech, she reiterated the ONDP’s commitment to supporting municipalities and being a partner to them in building housing.
I am proud to be part of a caucus that is proposing solutions that don’t involve giving massive incentives to developers over struggling Ontarians or making land speculators rich by ignoring the environment. Here are just some of the positive and expert-backed housing solutions that the ONDP has and will continue to put forward in the Legislature:
TVO Workers are On Strike! |
I am proud to stand in solidarity with TVO workers who are on strike. They are fighting for wages that reflect the cost of living after years of wage freezes and caps. They are also fighting for permanent jobs, not precarious contracts, for the licensed teachers who deliver curriculum content on TVO. This content is part of TVO’s organizational mandate, but the Minister of Education has directed the organization to hire only contract workers for those positions. This is why collective bargaining and strikes are such important tools for workers. Together they can take on the big bosses and Ministers that one worker alone could not.
Emergency Top-Up to Toronto’s Housing Voucher Program |
On Monday Mayor Olivia Chow announced that 1,350 more people in Toronto will be supported to pay for housing through $13.4M of new funding to the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) program, which supplies individuals and families in need with rent supplements. This one-time top-up funding consists of contributions from both the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario.
This infusion of emergency cash will help people experiencing homelessness, including asylum seekers, secure safe, permanent housing while they get back on their feet or establish themselves in the city for the first time. This will also relieve pressure on the shelter system, which is routinely over-capacity and not a permanent housing solution for anyone.
I am glad that the Provincial government came to the table at this critical moment and grateful to Mayor Chow for getting this deal done. It has been so disappointing to see the Federal government leave Toronto behind during this crisis.
Upcoming Community Events! |
Virtual Small Business Forum |
On Monday, August 28, from 4 PM to 5 PM, MPP Jessica Bell, MPP Chris Glover and I are hosting a virtual Small Business Forum with special guest Aaron Binder from Better Way Alliance.
We will be discussing:
You can RSVP for our Zoom forum here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. More information can be found here, and if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or MPP Jessica Bell’s office at [email protected].
Volunteer with Kristyn’s Team |
The St James Town and Cabbagetown Festivals are coming up. Both are held on the weekend of September 9 and 10 and Kristyn’s team will be setting up a community table at the two events.
These festivals are a great time to connect with the community, spread the word about important provincial issues, and enjoy a beautiful weekend with new friends.
We have shifts at 11am, 2pm, and 3:30pm on Saturday the 9th and Sunday the 10th. When can you join us?
We have shifts at 2pm, and 4:30pm on Saturday the 9th. When can you join us?
The 519's Back-To-School Bash |
Residents of Church-Wellesley, St. James Town, Regent Park and Moss Park are invited to The 519’s 7th Annual Back to School Bash. This free event is being held this Saturday, August 26, 11 AM - 4 PM at Barbara Hall Park.
Celebrate as we get set for the new school year with:
Freedomfest presented by Freedom City Ministry |
Freedom City Ministry presents their 9th Annual FreedomFest this Saturday August 26, 1 - 6 PM at the Greenspace behind 200 Wellesley Street East.
FREE food, music, clothes, essentials, household items, kids stuff, fun, festivities & community!
Adams Court Grand Opening |
This Saturday is the new basketball court official dedication & revitalized green space opening at 325 and 375 Bleecker Street. Youth United Basketball League from the Wellesley Community Centre is hosting a FREE community BBQ, a 4on4 basketball tournament & back-to-school giveaways this Saturday August 26 from 2 - 4 PM.
Summer Chill Fest in the St Lawrence |
This upcoming Sunday head to the St James Cathedral Lawn for an interfaith summer celebration hosted by the Anglican Diocese of Toronto.
Summer Chill will be held on Sunday, August 27, from 12 -2 PM, outside St. James’ Cathedral. This free, family-friendly event will combine fun activities for kids (including a free ice-cream truck and a visit from Santa on vacation!) with information on issues faced by people experiencing homelessness and the need for expanded respite capacity.
Regent Park Outdoor Fashion Show |
Calling all fashion fans! Join your neighbours in a showcase of diverse one-of-a-kind pieces created by community members! The event will include music, snacks and the main show. Come celebrate the creativity of Regent Park!
This event will take place on Thursday, August 31st from 5-9pm in the Daniels Spectrum Courtyard (585 Dundas St E). RSVP here!
St James Town Festival |
We love the annual St James Town Festival, a fun-filled community event that brings out all the neighbours. Head to the Greenspace behind 200 Wellesley St East to enjoy live performances, activities, and food vendors from 2-7 PM on Saturday, September 9. And don’t forget to stop by our MPP community table for spin-the-wheel prizes and popular swag giveaways!
The 44th Annual Cabbagetown Festival |
The Cabbagetown Festival is back! I am excited that this treasured annual festival is coming back to Parliament Street. Come by on August 9 and 10 for live entertainment, food vendors, a kids zone, and showcases by local businesses and artisans. We’ll be there with our community table under the bright orange banner for the entire weekend with spin-the-wheel prizes and popular swag giveaway!
Learn more and sign up to volunteer with the Cabbagetown BIA here.
Downtown East Action Plan Survey |
The Downtown East Action Plan provides a set of actions to coordinate City services and address complex challenges in Toronto’s Downtown East related to poverty, homelessness, community safety, mental health, substance use, and the drug poisoning crises.
I know many of you are deeply affected by these crises and it is important that the Action Plan is informed by your experiences and ideas. Fill out the survey and stay connected to the Action Plan’s work here.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn
MPP, Toronto Centre
Dear Neighbour,
There has been more information on Ford’s ways of evading accountability, as well as community events I’ll be attending across Toronto Centre — all of which I am eager to share with you.
A Greenbelt Update for the Integrity Commissioner |
It has only been one week since my last newsletter telling you about Ford’s Greenbelt scandal, yet we are only starting to uncover how corrupt this government truly is.
A damning article from Global News, released just three days ago, has brought to light additional information about Doug Ford’s use of a personal cellphone for government business. While the Auditor General’s (AG) Special Report about Minister Clark's political staff concluded that they would routinely use their personal e-mail accounts to conduct government business, it seems this is common on the Conservative side of the House. Global News states: “What was made clear by government officials was Ford did not use his government-issued cellphone to make a single phone call during that one-week period in November (2022).”
Leader of the Ontario NDP, Marit Stiles, has written to the Integrity Commissioner stating this additional information so it is to be included in their ongoing investigation. I will keep you apprised of this case’s developments — stay tuned.
Ontario's Finance Minister, Peter Bethlenfalvy, recently released the 2023-24 First Quarter (Q1) Fiscal Update. My colleague, MPP Catherine Fife (Waterloo), Official Opposition Finance Critic, emphasised that the report highlights the Conservative government's continued neglect of everyday Ontarians.
Despite the Financial Accountability Office’s (FAO) report’s projection of a $22.6 billion surplus due to below-planned spending, Minister Bethlanfalvy maintains that there is no change to the deficit/surplus... The most extensive and valuable pieces of land removed from the Greenbelt, as reflected in last week’s AG report, is in the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve, located in Minister Bethenfalvy’s riding of Pickering – Uxbridge. And through the AG report, we have all been made aware that the direct actions of the Ford government have enriched ultra-wealthy developer Silvio DeGasperis by more than $6 billion.
While Ontarians suffer from $7.2 billion in below-planned spending (e.g., cuts), including $1.7 billion in below-planned expenditures on health, a 67% cut for Emergency Forest Firefighting, and a 2.7% cut from the Ontario justice sector, these statistics are terrifying on paper, but their repercussions are severe.
Meeting with Out Loud North Bay |
I was honoured to meet with Out Loud North Bay earlier this week to learn about the good work they do supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Ontarians in North Bay. Their story is incredible: they are entirely volunteer-run, and were created by community for community. However, as they have grown, the demand for their services has also spiked. They are seeing rising hate and threats first-hand — like so many 2SLGBTQI+ organizations and Ontarians. They are filling a real gap and need government support. It’s time for the Ford Conservatives to recognize the importance of community-based organizations like Out Loud North Bay and fund them for the vital services they are providing to 2SLGBTQI+ families in the north.
Upcoming Community Events! |
Virtual Small Business Forum with MPP Jessica Bell |
On Monday, August 28, from 4 PM to 5 PM, MPP Jessica Bell and I are hosting a virtual Small Business Forum with special guest Aaron Binder from Better Way Alliance.
We will be discussing:
You can RSVP for our Zoom forum here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. More information can be found here, and if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or MPP Jessica Bell’s office at [email protected].
Pancakes in the Park |
This Saturday morning, August 19, from 10 AM to 12 PM, join the Friends of Regent Park hosting Pancakes in the Park at The Big Park (600 Dundas St. East). There will be vegan, gluten-free, and Filipino-style pancakes, and halal chicken and vegan sausages.
Don’t miss out on the music, face painting, and dancing! I will be there and looking forward to seeing many of you. Please meet at the Regent Park Community Centre at 402 Shuter St in case of rain.
Sunday in the Park |
Join me and my team this coming Sunday, August 20, from 12 PM to 7 PM at Regent Park’s Sunday in the Park. The event will take place at 600 Dundas St. East at “The Big Park,” there will be free halal, vegetarian, and kosher BBQ, good music, and fun with the community. If you have any accessibility needs, please email [email protected].
And if you would like to volunteer with us at this event and gain some outreach experience, please sign up to volunteer here, and a staff member will contact you about a shift time. See you there!
Skills for Success with Woodgreen Community Services |
If you want to improve your job-related skills to make you a more competitive candidate in today's labour market. In that case, Woodgreen offers an in-person workshop this coming Sunday, August 20. The Skills for Success for Experienced Workers (SSEW) Program provides unemployed individuals aged 45+ with training and support to improve their foundational and transferrable skills.
Their information session will be at 1533 Victoria Park Ave inside WoodGreen Employment Services' main workshop room beside the main entrance. For more information, click here.
Self-Defence Workshops at The 519 |
There are free self-defense workshops for those who are 18+. Any fitness level can do this class, and will be facilitated by martial artist and self-defense instructor Chris James. The latest session is August 20 from 12 PM to 4 PM, specifically for BIPOC communities. Register here before this Sunday!
Artist Call- Request for Proposals at Rekai Centre |
The Rekai Centres, a non-profit, charitable long-term care home providing exceptional care and inclusivity, seeks proposals for the visual transformation of the inaugural Rainbow Wing!
I urge potential artists interested in creating an inviting and inclusive environment that celebrates and represents the 2SLGBTQI+ communities to take their talents to Wellesley Central Place.
Read more about this opportunity here.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn
MPP, Toronto Centre
Dear Friend,
This week has been a whirlwind of breaking news about the Auditor General's report on the Greenbelt. I have given you a run down of report in this newsletter, as well as summer community events here in Toronto Centre. I look forward to sharing them here with you!
The Auditor General’s Scathing Report on Changes to the Greenbelt
|
This week, the Auditor General (AG) confirmed everything that the Leader of the Ontario NDP, Marit Stiles, has been saying — Doug Ford’s Bill 23 is not about building more housing; it is about making developers richer. This policy shift explicitly involved the release of protected Greenbelt land, which was acquired just last year by a select few of Ford’s acquaintances for thirty times less than its present-day appraisal. Surprise, surprise. The value of their initial $240 million investment has surged exponentially to a potential earning of $8.3 billion.
Make no mistake, this is what government corruption looks like under Doug Ford. Ontarians deserve better than a leader who cares more about his wealth and privilege. You can read the report here, or watch my video marking the report highlights here. Below, I’ve also outlined some notable takeaways.
1. Auditor General confirms Ford’s Greenbelt changes were unnecessary to achieve the government’s housing target. This matters because the AG systematically obliterates Ford’s lie that he must rip up the Greenbelt to build 1.5 million homes over ten years. “Chief Planners in the regions of Durham, Hamilton, and York—which are home to all 15 land sites removed from the Greenbelt—told (the AG) that Greenbelt land was not needed to meet the current housing targets assigned to them by the Housing Ministry.”
2. Ford's political staff guided the Greenbelt policy. The AG notes that in June of 2022, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Steve Clark, received a mandate letter to “codify processes,” which we now know took protected land out of the Greenbelt, opening it up for development. This now-available land, approximately 92% of the acreage, came from five distinct areas, all of which were “recommended” by developers who had “direct access” to Minister Clark’s Chief of Staff. It’s not typical for political staffers to manage complex planning processes. Professional planners subject matter experts and local communities are generally involved in land-use planning studies but they are never unilaterally led or dictated by top-level political staff.
3. Under Ford’s government developers had undue influence. Ultimately 14 of the 15 sites selected for removal were given to the Greenbelt Project Team for review by the Housing Minister’s political staff. Only one site assessed for removal was provided by the Greenbelt Project Team. Owners of 15 sites removed could see an increase in land value of $8.3 billion. It shows that Ford’s wealthy insider friends will profit hugely from this shady and politically motivated process.
4. Environmental factors, farmland protect, and existing municipal planning were all sidelined in the process. This suggests that the process was forced to fit a predetermined outcome and that at no point did the process prioritize the government’s stated objective — housing. Environmental agriculture expertise was not monitored or incorporated, and cities and their political staff were ignored.
The Conservatives Greenbelt Grab has nothing to do with building affordable places to live and everything to do with making a select few well-connected insiders even richer. Marit Stiles, myself, and the entire Ontario NDP team will continue to demand the immediate removal of Minister Steve Clark from Cabinet. Our demands including having Ford recall the Legislature to return all lands to the Greenbelt and cancel his nefarious deals with developers.
This is only the beginning. I will continue to notify you as more is unveiled by the Integrity Commissioner's investigation. Take action by signing my petition to amend Bill 23, stop all plans to further remove protected land from the Greenbelt and protect existing farmland in the province by passing the Ontario NDP’s Protecting Agricultural Land Act.
Ontario Launching Credit & Debit Payment on TTC
|
Starting this Tuesday August 15th, the TTC and transit systems across Ontario are launching credit and debit payments to pay for fares. In addition to the TTC, riders can also use credit or debit to pay fares on GO Transit, UP Express, Brampton Transit, Burlington Transit, Durham Region Transit, Hamilton Street Railway, MiWay (in Mississauga), Oakville Transit and York Region Transit. Click this article link here for more information.
Help the Cabbagetown Community Arts Centre Keep Music Alive!
|
The Cabbagetown Community Arts Centre has provided affordable music lessons to at-risk children from low-income families in Toronto for more than four decades.
Because of a lack of funding, they are hosting a fundraiser through GoFundMe. To keep their doors open, they are trying to reach their goal of $25,000. If you can, please donate or spread the word by sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family.
The Downtown East's Wellness Hub |
If you need to speak with a doctor or a nurse practitioner about services like blood pressure checks, cholesterol checks, cancer screenings, mental health assessments, or access to primary care, check out the Wellness Hub. Locations are at the Corner and the Regent Park Community Health Centre. These are by appointment only, so please call (416) 347-0943 for bookings. *Bring OHIP/IFH if possible.
Action YMCA, YCAN Program
|
The YMCA Community Action Network (YCAN) is an innovative national program. Its purpose is to engage leaders across Canada to address community needs through service projects!
If you are between the ages of 13-30, a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or someone who has been granted refugee status in Canada and is passionate about learning new skills and making a difference in your community, consider signing up here. The first information session will be held on the 18th floor of 365 Bloor St E at 5 PM on August 14.
SummerSeries in Trillium Park
|
SummerSeries in Trillium Park has an exciting season of programming, offering the perfect setting to enjoy music, arts, wellness, and nature.
Starting July 1 until late September, there will be local artists, Ontario-based, and international artists for a variety of events, including live musical performances and outdoor yoga classes in Trillium Park on Toronto’s waterfront. All events are free and open to all ages!
City Hall Live
|
This summer, there is no shortage of free and fun events in the city. City Hall Live, is this August with music and events featuring local musicians, grassroots music organizations, venues and presenters. You can find out about all of the concerts coming up here.
Emancipation Month Event this Sunday!
|
This upcoming Sunday, August 13 from 3 PM to 7PM, the Afro-Indigenous Food Rights Project will be hosting an Emancipation Benefit Concert. Join us for a great event, as there will be live music and delicious food at 200 Wellesley Street East by the pool behind the building.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre