Strong communities

Toronto-Danforth is home to some of the strongest communities in Canada.  That’s why I chose to live here, it’s why I love living here, it’s why I’m committed to watching all my children grow up here and it’s why I will work to make sure that our communities not only stay strong but get stronger.

Our communities are compact and efficient, there are walkable shopping districts, neighbours know each other and get involved in community groups.  We have strong cultural communities that look after their members and grow their favourite foods in almost shockingly bountiful gardens.  Our seniors have incredible skills at self sufficiency, mending and repairing things that young people throw away.  We have amazing transit connections criss-crossing the riding and many families get by without a car at all.

But what fills me with most awe and hope is the way this corner of Toronto is at the forefront of finding new compassion and understanding, building bridges between people of different cultures, religions, ages and colours.  I love watching older Greek women sharing produce with their young Chinese neighbours.  I love watching toddlers with two mommies watching over them as they play with other toddlers freshly arrived from Bangladesh.  And I was actually brought to tears the drizzly day I joined in a peace walk through this riding organized by Christians, Muslims and Jews who shared food and prayers together.

I want to promote cohesion in diversity, a recognition that to have our own culture recognized and valued, we must learn to respect and embrace others as well.  I want to promote compassion, and a recognition that we are all lessened when there is suffering among us.  And I want to press for a government that will help so many local small green businesses just waiting for the right environment to soar.