Community News Update - January 17, 2025
Community News Update - December 7, 2020
Dear Community,
Today, Ontario registered another 1925 cases of COVID-19 across the province, setting a new single day record – just barely eclipsing yesterday’s record mark of 1924. Of these cases, 601 have been found in Toronto, 512 in Peel Region, 167 in York Region, and 133 in Durham Region. Tragically, we have also reported another 26 deaths, and we currently have 213 patients in ICUs.
While we know that there will be vaccinations coming in the future, for most of us, we’re still months away from receiving our shots. That means that it is vital that we are all taking every precaution to slow the spread of this virus. The safe choices that we make today will save lives tomorrow.
So please make sure to wear your mask, wash your hands, and maintain physical distancing as much as possible. We’re going to get through COVID-19, but we’re not there just yet – it is vital that we don’t lose our focus now.
For many weeks, I have been keeping you informed of the Ford government’s plan to legislate well-known bigot Charles McVety’s Canada Christian College into a University, granting him the power to grant accredited degrees in arts and science. Today, the Conservatives voted in favour of the legislation, and against the values of Ontario. This decision is a slap in the face to those who have been attacked by McVety over the years, including the LGBTQ community and the Muslim community.
While this vote didn’t come as a surprise, it’s deeply frustrating that this government could not come together to stand up against someone so hateful.
In Solidarity,
Jill Andrew
Today in the House
Greenbelt Development
Today, I rose to deliver a member’s statement to demand that the Ford Government stop their giveaways to developers who want to pave over the Greenbelt.
You can watch here.
Remembering Denise Jones
This morning, I led the Ontario Legislature in a moment of silence to honour and reflect on the life of Denise Jones. For those who don’t know, Denise was a cultural icon, a reggae industry legend, and the leader of Jones and Jones Productions, including JAMBANA (along with her husband Allan). Denise passed away on Thursday at the age of 64.
Denise’s work has spanned the globe, and she has had a profound impact on millions – inspiring us to make good trouble with strong melodies, bass, and beats in her honour. She was a formidable leader who cherished, uplifted and amplified Black lives especially those who made their mark in arts, culture and entertainment! Above all else, she was a mentor to countless people and any of us who have ever stood on a stage and called ourselves performers stand on her shoulders.
Rest in all of your beauty and power Denise.
You can watch here.
