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
| In This Newsletter |
- 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
| While Ford Dithers, Nova Scotia Declares IPV an Epidemic |
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].
| 77 Howard Tenants Stand Up |
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.
| Jagmeet Singh Stands Strong Against Hate |
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.
|
2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations Annual General Meeting |
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).
|
Barbara Hall Park Turns 50! |
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!
|
The Legislative Page Program is Open for Applications! |
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.
| This Week's Headlines |
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
| Upcoming Community Events |
| The 519's Recommendations For Truth & Reconciliation Week |
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.
| Youth Civic and Political Forum at Toronto City Hall |
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.
|
Allan Gardens September Community Markets |
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
| Pencil Case Stuffing with English Testing Canada |
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.
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Dates:
- Sunday, September 22, 2024: 10 AM - 6 PM
- Monday, September 23, 2024: 6 PM - 9 PM
- Location: Foy House, 92 Isabella Street
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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 Public Transportation Workshop |
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!
| Youth Justice Community Forum |
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.
|
Indigenous Legacy Gathering |
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 |
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’s 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner |
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.
| Apply for the Ontario Model Parliament! |
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.
| St Lawrence REmarket |
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:
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Wednesday, October 9:
- FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
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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.
| LAO Youth Arts Program - Submit Your Work! |
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].
Amanda Robertson and Marit Stiles at a press conference in Bay of Quinte
