Community News Update - October 4, 2024
Dear Community,
Toronto—St. Paul's, in just a few weeks, I'll be back at the Ontario Legislature!
Every month, MPPs have the opportunity to give Members Statements in the legislature. They are 90 seconds long - that's it! This session, I'm inviting all you spoken word artists, poets, and song writers in our community to submit your 90 second prose! If you're one of the fabulous folks selected, I will read your words into the legislature - giving you credit, of course. It's a great way for every MPP in Ontario to hear firsthand just how talented we are as a community and hear the issues that matter to us. And hey, just maybe some politicians who have a hard time hearing the truth may take a second listen if it's artistically presented!
Now there's a catch - your prose needs to be about one of the following topics (in no specific order):
- Housing
- Climate Justice
- Education
- Transportation
- Affordability
- Homelessness
- Workers
Or another issue that matters deeply to you that's relevant to provincial politics.
Please keep in mind it's only 90 seconds. Me and my office team will be in touch if your piece is selected to be read in the legislature. You will be invited to the legislature where you can see me present it. If you can't make it, not to fear, my office will send you a video clip of your piece going down in history!
Please send submissions to:
[email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject line: POLITICAL PROSE @ QUEEN'S PARK!
In today's newsletter:
Recognizing that it's impossible to capture a full week of news in a single newsletter, please see the highlights below:
- Ford Releases Therme / Ontario Place Lease
- Eglinton LRT Won't Open This Year
- Days of Significance
- Jill in Community
- Upcoming events and more!
Ford Releases Ontario Place Lease
Yesterday, Doug Ford FINALLY released his plan for his Therme mega-spa vanity project out of fear they'd lose an FOI appeal put forth by our team.
According to the lease, the government agreed on a 75-year lease with Therme set to begin next year with the option to extend the lease by another 20 years. Therme is also estimated to pay close to $2 billion over the course of the lease to the government which includes rental payments and maintenance payments for the land. However, a minimum of 1,800 parking spaces must be built by the government prior to the mega spa's opening, with Ford proposing an additional 2,500 spaces. That's 4,300 parking spaces built off the backs of Ontario taxpayers, shady business deals and environmental degradation.
And get this! If the government fails to meet Therme's parking obligations, it will have to pay $5 per parking space, per day once the facility is open. That’s millions of dollars a year going towards a private Austrian company instead of healthcare, education, housing and social services.
Click here to read more.
Eglinton Crosstown LRT Won't Open This Year
With September now behind us, what little hope of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT opening this year is quickly fading. Metrolinx CEO Phil Verster previously stated that the public would be given notice three months' before the route's opening. Well, 2025 is less than three months away, and we've gotten nothing but radio silence from Metrolinx's Million Dollar Man. Is anyone surprised?
Doug Ford has overspent billions of dollars on this project with no end in sight. Meanwhile, the businesses and residents along Eglinton, especially our community in Little Jamaica, have paid the price for over a DECADE. Construction is complete. So, when will it open?
The Premier said the government will get involved as a "last resort" - but of course, couldn't detail what this means. Have we not reached this point already!? We deserve transparency from this government and Metrolinx MUST be held accountable.
Click here to read more.
Days of Significance
Rosh Hashanah
Shana Tova to Jewish community members in Toronto—St. Paul's and beyond who were celebrating Rosh Hashanah, marking the start of the Jewish New Year and the high holidays! I wish everyone a sweet and healthy New Year. May the year 5785 be one of justice and joy!
National Day of Remembrance & Action on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2 Spirit People
Today, October 4th marks the National Day of Remembrance for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and 2 Spirit People.
We must stand together with survivors, their loved ones, and communities who have endured pain, loss, and unanswered questions to bring an end to this epidemic.
Happy Birthday Rev. Hall
This is Rev. Lameteria D. Hall, the Senior Minister of Verity Centre for Better Living.
Whether community is celebrating her Installation Anniversary back in March 2024 marking her 2.5 years as Senior Minister with Verity OR celebrating her birthday as we did last weekend (I caught the tail end!). SHE is a source of hope, light, and strength and we appreciate her beyond words!
Rev, you, and a handful of other faith leaders, helped me get through my toughest year in 2023 and I'll never forget the generosity of spirit and counsel you've showed me. You've done this for so many others in our community and in your congregation. You've earned your flowers tenfold.
Happy birthday once again and thank you! We are blessed to have Verity in our St. Paul's neighbourhood. Friends, I invite you to check Verity. Come as you are. You won't regret it!
JILL IN COMMUNITY!
Last Saturday, I started my morning in our community at the TTC Hillcrest Complex 100th Anniversary Open House!
It was a special treat to see all the TTC vehicles on display - old and new! I was also grateful for the behind the scenes tour of the shop to see where our busses and street cars come for repairs. Thank you to our ATU Local 113 workers for ALL you do to keep our city moving! Thank you, Rick and Shabnum, for spending the morning with me!
Truth & Reconciliation Gathering at Tollkeeper's Cottage & Park
On Saturday, I stopped by the Tollkeeper's Cottage and Park for the annual Every Child Matters gathering and ceremony to honour the victims and survivors of Residential Schools and ongoing forms of colonial violence.
I am deeply grateful to Elder Catherine Brooks for presiding over the ceremony. Thank you to Robin Buyers & the Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Group, the 416 drummers, dancers Nichole and Indiana, singer Avery Florence, and chef Reva for the bannock, cornbread, and cedar tea.While I couldn't stay for the full ceremony due to a scheduling conflict, I'm grateful to my community staff for attending on my behalf.
Community March Against Gun Violence
On Saturday I attended the Community March Against Gun Violence along with friends and community members at Queen's Park.
The recent shooting at Yonge and Eglinton reminded us all of the continuing problem of gun violence in our city. This event was sponsored by the Black Action Defense Committee and other community groups to raise awareness about this critical issue.
This gathering was also in honour of community activist Louis March, who recently passed away.
Madame Wob Dwiyet Cultural Show
In 2024, it's now in its 13th year had the theme “A flourishing Flamboyant Nation” and that perfectly describes the beautiful isle of splendour Dominica - “Fleur Extraordinaire!” A theme very fitting since Dominica celebrates its 46th year of independence and continues to demonstrate her resilience after a major hurricane disaster.
MWDC Inc. was established to raise the Commonwealth of Dominica’s cultural profile, and to integrate Dominica’s unique and fabulous culture to the multicultural landscape of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Each year MWDC surpasses their goals with flying colours! Not only are cultural shows like these integral to celebrating identity, they help younger generations see themselves, learn about their heritage, and build strong ties! As a Canadian with Dominican heritage, I was proud to be there witnessing our national dress the Wob Dwiyet on FULL display! Not to mention it was incredibly cool to bump into the Honourable Zanana Akande and Mr. John Allen, Honorary Consul General for the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis! I also saw many old friends, family members and some legends of fashion too!
Glenora Parker, MDWC, and team! BRAVO, you all! BRAVO! AND thank you for having me!
100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women, Book Launch and Ceremony
Last week, I was honoured to attend the Gala and Ceremony for the 100ABCWomen Book Launch.
Since its inception, 500 impactful black women have been recognised and awarded for their astounding contributions to our communities.
Congratulations to the 100 celebrated guests of honour, and to the co-creators, the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, Dauna Jones-Simmonds, and Dr. Denise O’Neil Green. You showered this book with the passion and diligence that have defined your lifetime achievements and tireless support of our community. I know this book, an archive of our successes, will inspire so many of the youth who watch us intently.
It was a pleasure seeing my friends and idols Dr. Jean Augustine, Dr. Laura Mae Lindo, former NDP MPP for Kitchener Center who was awarded at the event, Senator Paulette Senior, former CEO of the Canadian Women's Foundation and CEO of YWCA Canada, Christine Maclin, former Human Rights Director at Unifor Canada and, Chris Campbell, the first black president of UBC Local 27!
The Legacy Awards, by the Black Academy
Last week I got to experience the joy of the Legacy Awards, honouring established and emerging Black Canadian talent.
It was great to see Alice Hall from our Toronto—St. Paul's Nia Centre for the Arts, along with Karen Bruce from Wift TO, Oakwood-Vaughan legend Kardinal Offishall, and a special appearance from our very own Randy's Take Out - Home of Randy's Patties, who supplied the audience with treats. #littlejamaica
A special congratulations to Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, co-founders of The Black Academy, for putting this event on for a THIRD YEAR!
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On Monday, September 30th, I joined Steve Teekens and friends from Na-Me-Res (Native Men's Residence) as well as dozens of children from local schools for a special Indigenous Truth & Reconciliation Day event at Hillcrest Park. We heard from speakers about the ongoing trauma inflicted by the Residential School System, and how to find a way forward. One important step will be ensuring every Indigenous community in Ontario has access to clean drinking water and for Ontario to fully recognize September 30th as an official holiday.
Seniors Climate Day of Action
Tuesday, October 1st, I joined our community for a Canada-wide Climate Day of Action as part of the International Day of Older Persons.
Thank you to Lyba and all the Seniors for Climate Action Now! Toronto (SCAN!) members for organizing this event. It was great to be out with community, climate advocates, and leaders from across generations calling for urgent action to address the climate crisis and build a better planet for our children and their future. There is NO Planet B, and there is no other time to take action! As so many of the beautifully crafted signs say, "Later is too Late!"
I also want to thank to everyone who showed up to stand alongside our seniors and the brilliant youth advocates whose voices carry on a multigenerational fight. It was lovely to see so many faces.
Toronto Burlesque Festival
I had an incredible time at the opening night Toronto Burlesque Festival at El Mocambo (464 Spadina Ave)! The festival creates a safe space for diverse stories, experiences, and bodies, and amplifies marginalized voices in the art form. I am thrilled to see the festival's GRAND return!
Thank you to the organizers for putting on this wonderful event! Special thanks to the ICONIC, award-winning Nikola Steer / Coco Framboise, a local St. Paul's community member, and one of the founding members of the festival. She is a beloved LEGACY builder & visionary in the Toronto burlesque community.
The festival is on until October 6th! Visit their website for tickets & more info.
St. Paul's Spotlight 🔦
Last Sunday, I had a wonderful afternoon with my mom at Matthew's Church on St. Clair Ave W (Fun fact: this is where I was baptized!). We topped the afternoon off with wonderful flowers from the incredible St. Clair Fruit Market and a delicious breakfast from Emma's Country Kitchen. What a way to start the day!
We are lucky to have so many incredible businesses here in St. Paul's. Show them some love!
COMMUNITY BULLETIN 📌
On Monday, October 7th, I'll be joining Friends of Standing Together for a silent vigil to mourn every life lost on October 7th and since 5:30 pm at Bloor and Avenue Road.
Friends of Standing Together Toronto is part of the global support network of Standing Together Movement, a progressive grassroots movement mobilizing Jewish and Palestinian citizens of Israel against the occupation and for peace, equality, and social justice.
I encourage you to join me if you are able.
Inkspire: Oakwood Drop-in Services
Join the For Youth Initiative (FYI) at 504 Oakwood Avenue for the launch of Inkspire.
Who Can Apply? This is a creative writing, journaling and visual arts club for students ages 14-18.
Learn more about FYI's programs here.
Model Parliament Program
Be a Part of the Model Parliament Program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario!
This engaging, educational program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario offers civic-minded students an opportunity to experience democracy at work. This 3-day program takes place at the Legislative Building in Toronto.
Who Can Apply?
Ontario students in grades 10 to 12 with an interest in current affairs, provincial issues and government.
Why Apply?
Meet the Speaker, Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) and other like-minded students from across Ontario! Learn how the provincial legislature works firsthand and debate “as an MPP” in the Legislative Chamber.
Online applications will be accepted until October 6th, 2024 – apply now!
Calvin Presbyterian and Deer Park United Beyond the Bake Sale
Calvin Presbyterian and Deer Park United's BEYOND THE BAKE SALE is just around the corner! Please mark Saturday, October 5th from 10 am to 2 pm on your calendar. The sale will feature homemade pantry goods like jams and jellies, pickles, chutney and salsa, homemade granola and spiced nuts, as well as baked goods. In addition, books, puzzles and FairTrade Coffee will be on sale. Take time to drop into their cafe. There will be some artisan vendors as well.
Location: Calvin Presbyterian/Deer Park United Church, 26 Delisle Ave (1 Block North of St Clair, in the first block west of Yonge St).
Contact: Church Office - [email protected]
Songs for Hope - An Evening of Music and Giving, in support of Seeds of Hope
Check out Song of Hope, an evening of music and giving on October 26th at the Drake Underground at 6:30 PM in support of the Seeds of Hope Foundation.
The evening will feature:
- Sisters & Brothers - a much-loved musical trio that has over a decade of experience performing together in front of audiences across the city.
- Every Second Tuesday - Toronto's premiere Dive Bar Band, bringing classic rock of the 60s and 70s back to our collective consciousness (after all, if you can't remember the 60s, you weren't really there!)
Click here for tickets!
Seeds of Hope is a registered Toronto charity that has been making tremendous impact for over 16 years. Its initiatives have helped many to overcome homelessness and livelihood challenges.
Model Parliament Program
Be a Part of the Model Parliament Program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario!
This engaging, educational program at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario offers civic-minded students an opportunity to experience democracy at work. This 3-day program takes place at the Legislative Building in Toronto.
Who Can Apply?
Ontario students in grades 10 to 12 with an interest in current affairs, provincial issues and government.
Why Apply?
Meet the Speaker, Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) and other like-minded students from across Ontario! Learn how the provincial legislature works firsthand and debate “as an MPP” in the Legislative Chamber.
Online applications will be accepted until October 6th, 2024 – apply now!
Book Launch - Getting us to Grandma's
Come celebrate beloved author, Nadia L. Hohn's new book — and the 10th of her career!
Her new book Getting us to Grandma's, illustrated by TeMika Grooms and published by Groundworm Books, is one for the 80s babies and will take readers on a fantastic voyage from Toronto to the Bronx. Don't miss out on this exciting launch and celebration of Nadia's career.
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 1:30-3:30 PM
Where: Oakwood Village Library and Arts Centre, 341 Oakwood Avenue, just north of St. Clair Avenue
Click here to RSVP.
Learn to Prevent an Overdose
Each year across Ontario, thousands of lives are lost to overdoses. We need every level of government to prioritize implementing harm reduction strategies to combat these senseless deaths, and you can help.
As many of you know, Naloxone is a medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, and these kits are FREE with training at participating pharmacies across the city. Together, we can prevent unnecessary deaths and work toward a more compassionate society that is safe safe for everyone.
Find a pharmacy with Naloxone kits near you, and make sure you can recognize the signs of an overdose.
In solidarity,
Dr. Jill Andrew, PhD
MPP, Toronto--St. Paul's