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Groundbreaking Climate Change Project focused on Black communities in five locations in the GTHA

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3 weeks ago

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BY PAUL JUNOR

“A Matter of Justice: Climate Change in Black Communities in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area,” will be held on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, at McMaster Continuing Education Centre in Hamilton, and Tuesday, October 29th, 2024, at Cecil Community Centre in downtown Toronto near the intersection of College St. and St. George St. The screening is based on the final report titled, “Equity in Action: Building Climate Resilience in Black Communities.”

The ENRICH Project was financially supported by the McConnell Foundation and Catherine Donnelly Foundation. In addition, there were two grant partners: Toronto Environmental Alliance (TEA), and Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) who played a critical role. Through the efforts of individuals associated with these partners: workshops were arranged, community outreach was facilitated, participants were enrolled, and spaces were created to ensure sharing of expertise, resources, and knowledge.

The results of The ENRICH Project were published on June 30th, 2024, Dr. Ingrid

Waldron was the director of the project. The executive summary is to build on the expertise and lived experiences within Black communities to increase awareness about the unique impacts of climate change on Black communities and how to support specific community needs and priorities in the face of climate crises. Workshops were held in five areas in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA): Scarborough, Brampton, North York; Central Toronto and Hamilton.

The objectives of the project are to:

  • Support capacity-building and collective resilience through hands-on workshops in five areas in the GTHA.
  • Increase the involvement of Black communities in discussions around climate and environmental action.
  • Identify and support specific community needs and priorities in facing climate crises.
  • Connect community members with each other, Black community spaces, Black-led organizations, local environmental and climate justice organizations, and climate change experts to maintain community engagement and organization beyond the project.

The Climate Justice Framework was utilized to analyze results of workshops. There are four aspects:

  • Social, economic, environmental and climate injustices are interconnected.
  • Different kinds of identities overlap to impact experiences of not only oppression, but climate change.
  • Climate change has unequal impacts that can increase pre-existing inequities and injustices experienced by marginalized communities.
  • Climate justice advocates for equitable action that prioritizes the needs and rights of communities disproportionately impacted by climate change.

This project in many ways was groundbreaking as it was the first of its kind that focused on Black communities in five locations in the GTHA (two of which were in Hamilton). The workshops were held from October 2023 to February 2024 averaging about twenty participants each. There was a neighborhood role-playing game called, “Resilientville Canada” which enabled participants to be introduced to hypothetical scenarios that call upon them to respond to ensure that the safety and security of each one is maintained.

The following were five themes that the project findings were organized under:

  • Awareness of Climate Change
  • Climate Change Impacts on Communities
  • Experiences Based on Income, Race, Disability, and Gender
  • Solutions to Combat Climate Change in Communities
  • Unsustainable City Planning Practices and Procedures

There were five practical recommendations they include:

  • Allocate disaster relief funds toward infrastructure designed to address future climate disasters and promote community resilience.
  • Encourage investments in affordable, accessible, and locally controlled climate resilient infrastructure.
  • Establish and fund resiliency hubs within trusted community entities like schools, libraries, clinics, youth centers, or places of worship.
  • Create resources to provide emergency aid to areas impacted by disasters, particularly for land and watersheds.
  • Involve communities in planning and decision-making processes, ensuring that the most vulnerable and disadvantaged are included.

There were four recommendations presented for policy makers such as:

  • Plan more inclusive and targeted outreach to Black communities (including newcomers) about climate change impacts and solutions.
  • Work towards more sustainable, inclusive, and accessible urban planning.
  • Offer green solutions that prioritize affordability, accessibility, and economic empowerment.
  • Engage local communities in city plans for extreme weather emergencies.

The next steps of the project focus on dissemination and engagement. It will involve the following:

  • Sharing of the final report with multiple stakeholders.
  • A policy brief is in the works to make sure that community voices are heard by decision makers and reflected in policy and climate initiatives.

There will be the formation of partnerships and engagement initiatives. This will ensure that:

  • The project intends to expand on the community relationship-building it began with the workshops and partner with additional organizations to strengthen the network of resources community members have access to.
  • The project will collaborate with partners to support the development of community resilience plans.

At the community screening, there will be a time for community connection and engaging conversation. There will be a project presentation by Dr. Ingrid Waldron followed by a Q & A session with the audience.

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With a last name that means “Faithful and loyal,” it is no wonder that Paul Junor has become a welcomed addition to the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper Team. Since 1992, Paul has dedicated his life to become what you call a great teacher. Throughout the years, he has formed strong relationships with his students and continues to show them that he cares about them as people. Paul is a warm, accessible, enthusiastic and caring individual who not only makes himself available for his students, but for his community as well.

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Toronto Caribbean Newspaper visits the RIU Aquarelle Jamaica: This is going to be one hell of a ride!

Published

16 hours ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

I was sitting at my desk, with a look of pure excitement on my face. I looked at the email on the screen and read it aloud. “Jamaica, here we come! Again!” I let out a hearty laugh. I still can’t believe it. Another trip to Jamaica, the land of sun, sea, and endless joy. But this time, it’s different. This time, I’m not just a tourist. I’m representing the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, and we had been invited to experience something truly extraordinary.

Imagine this: one of the most beautiful places on earth, and one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world. It was like a dream come true. At that point, I leaned back in my chair, a wide grin spread across your face.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing firsthand experiences of RIU’s impactful work in Jamaica. You’ll get a glimpse into the remarkable offerings of RIU Aquarelle, from its luxurious accommodations to its vibrant entertainment. Together, we’ll embark on a journey to the Orthopaedic Clinic in Negril, unwind at the Ritz Cafe, savour a delectable lunch at RIU Palace Tropical Bay, explore the wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park, connect with the passionate team at the Jamaica Tourist Board, and dance the night away at an exhilarating White Party.

Before we dive into these exciting adventures, I’d like to introduce you to the incredible travel team who will be accompanying me on this unforgettable trip: Ian Stalker, Karen Dahdah, Michael Schoenberger, Michelle Richmond, Peta-Gai Innerarity, Ronald Fanfair, Jorge Satorre (RIU Communication Team), Albert Puig (RIU Communication Director), and Janet Silvera (Jamaica PR Consultant).

What truly elevates a trip is the company you keep. I’m fortunate to say that this press trip was made exceptional by the incredible group I had the pleasure of working with. Whether we were playfully teasing each other, engaging in friendly banter, or orchestrating lighthearted pranks, the camaraderie and shared laughter were the heart of this adventure. It was the people who made this trip truly unforgettable.

Now, let’s introduce the organization that brought this incredible group together. RIU Hotels & Resorts (which has almost 100 hotels in 21 countries) is a hotel chain that was born in 1953 with a small hotel in Playa de Palma, Spain. Their more than 60 years of experience pampering their customers in the world’s best destinations attest to the mission of the company: the well-being of their guests.

RIU Hotels & Resorts is known for many things, including: its commitment to quality, its outstanding facilities in the best beach and city destinations and its wide variety of carefully prepared dining options, but above all, it is known for providing a personalized service from the heart. Their carefully designed facilities ensure that you have everything you need, and we have created a range of services to complement your stay with great food, fun and relaxation.

The company works day in and day out to continue offering the best facilities and exclusive services. All of them offer guaranteed quality and a standard of service that will make your holiday a one-of-a-kind experience. They are designed to give you the freedom to do, eat or drink whatever you want, whenever you want. Simply put, exactly how you like it.

The service at the RIU hotel was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and efficient check-in. The staff were attentive, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our stay was unforgettable. The housekeeping was impeccable, the dining options were diverse and delicious, and the poolside service was prompt and courteous. The overall atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making our vacation truly memorable.

I can’t wait to soak up the sun, feel the sand between my toes, and dive into the crystal-clear waters, but most importantly, I can’t wait to share this incredible experience with all of you. Stay tuned, folks. This is going to be one hell of a ride!

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“We need more Funding!” Toronto Caribbean Festival request $2 Million dollars from the Government of Canada

Published

17 hours ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement that the Toronto Caribbean Festival will need more funding did not come as a surprise. CEO Mischka Crichton of the Festival Management Committee has reported that the festival may be cancelled next year if it does not receive two million in emergency funding to cover costs. In an email, she states, “Securing funding now is essential as we begin preparations for next year’s festival, including marketing, vendor and artist agreements, and material sourcing for bands and customs.”

“Budget allocations must be established well in advance to ensure that we can deliver the high-quality experience visitors expect. With inflation and production costs continuing to rise, timely financial support is crucial for sustaining the Carnival’s legacy and impact.”

In order to provide clarification about the funding, a petition was started at the website: www.torontocarnival.ca/petition. There is a pressing need of two million to cover expenses from the 2024 Carnival and $1.5 million from the federal and provincial governments to sustain it. Crichton raised the possibility that the festival may be cancelled entirely, or a few events if extra funding is not obtained. Crichton reinforced that it is important that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is maintained as a non-profit organization. She notes, “The Carnival is a community-driven festival offering mostly free events that prioritize making sure our community can afford to attend the events we do charge for, as well as cultural enrichment.”

Dr. Jill Andrew, MPP of Toronto-St. Paul raised the issue of underfunding in the Ontario Legislature on October 28th, 2024, and asked Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario to step up and fulfill his promise to increase funding to the festival. There is still no firm commitment.

The petition states, “We, the undersigned, call upon the City of Toronto, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to provide the Toronto Caribbean Carnival with the financial support it deserves, in recognition of its cultural, economic and social impact.”  The petition outlines the significance of this festival to Canada. It notes, “For over 50 years (since 1967, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival has been a key cultural event in the city and country, attracting millions of visitors and contributing significantly to the Canadian economy. This festival not only celebrates the heritage and creativity of Caribbean people, it also celebrates what is uniquely Canadian by fostering inclusivity, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities for: small businesses, entrepreneurs, and families.”

The petition requests three things:

  • Immediate Emergency Funding of two million to cover the operational costs from the 2024 Carnival. Despite the incredible efforts of the executive team to reduce costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024, the carnival still faces a financial shortfall. The Carnival costs over three million to produce annually yet receives less than one million from the three levels of government.
  • Annual Funding of $1.5 million from the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to support the core operations of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, ensuring its sustainability and continued growth as a National Cultural Institution.
  • Funding for a Cultural Centre dedicated to preserving and promoting the Caribbean heritage in Toronto. This center would serve as a hub for education, cultural programming, and community events year-round, benefiting both the diaspora and the wider Canadian community.

The petition lists five reasons why it is important to sign the petition:

Economic Impact:

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival generates over $400 million annually for the Ontario economy, supporting thousands of jobs and hundreds of small businesses. The majority of these businesses are: Black, Brown, or Caribbean owned, making this event vital to the economic well-being of racialized communities.

Tourism and Visibility:

The Carnival brings in over two million visitors each year, making it the largest cultural event in Canada. With government support, we can elevate the Carnival’s international standing and attract even more visitors.

Representation and Inclusion:

Carnival is more than just a celebration. It stems from our emancipation and freedom from slavery and indentureship. It’s a powerful symbol of what our community can achieve. The event offers a platform to showcase Caribbean culture, while also standing as a beacon of inclusion, diversity, and respect. Government funding is not just financial support – it’s an acknowledgement of the value and contribution of Caribbean culture in Canada.

Financial Prudence:

Over the past two years, the executive team has demonstrated extraordinary financial responsibility, reducing the festival’s costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024. This frugality highlights the sacrifices made by the team and community, showcasing that the Carnival has done something extraordinary with the limited resources it receives.

Cultural Legacy:

We are asking for support not just for an event, but for an ecosystem of creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a lifeline for many who depend on its success.

The petition concludes by noting why it is important that it be signed. “You are helping ensure that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival continues to thrive, benefiting not only the local community, but all of Canada. Let’s make sure that future generations continue to experience the: magic, culture, and impact of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.”

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Children are not Democrats, or Republicans; they are kids, and their well-being must be our focus

Published

17 hours ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

In a world where trust in governance is waning, it’s refreshing to see individuals who genuinely care about the well-being of their communities. While many politicians make empty promises and cater to the elite, there are those who are committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. Today, we’ll delve into the story of a man who is determined to improve the health of his nation, even as a new administration takes the reins.

On April 19th, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took leave from Children’s Health Defense (CHD) to run for president as a Democrat. About six months later, he switched gears to run as an independent. Then, on August 23rd, 2024 of this year, Kennedy, the longtime Democrat, suspended his campaign — and in a move that perhaps even he didn’t see coming — he endorsed former President Donald Trump.

Through it all, Kennedy remained true to his commitment: to end the chronic disease epidemic. He never wavered. For perhaps the first time in history, Kennedy gave children a voice in a national election. He reminded everyone that children are not Democrats, or Republicans. They’re kids. They’re “Swimming around in a toxic soup, and they need our help.”

RFK’s family have been harshly critical of him and view his switch over to the Republicans as a betrayal, including when he shared the unfounded claim that COVID-19 was “Ethnically targeted.” “Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment,” shared Rory Kennedy (the youngest of RFK Sr. and Ethel Kennedy’s 11 children) in a statement when RFK Jr. announced his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate.

Despite familial differences of opinion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s resolute dedication to public health remains steadfast. His tireless efforts are centered on safeguarding the health of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens: our children.

With Trump’s support, Kennedy and his team launched the Make America Healthy Again campaign, where he vowed to do whatever it takes to get toxic chemicals out of our: food, our soil, our water and our air. He has also promised to take on the: FDA, CDC, HHS, NIH, NIAID, USDA, EPA, FCC — and any other federal agency that puts corporate profits ahead of public health.

Perhaps most importantly, Kennedy promised to get to the bottom of why 1 in 33 children in this country has autism. During the election, a member of Trump’s transition team — said that one of his first jobs, if Trump were elected, would be to gain access to the CDC’s vaccine safety data so his team can analyze it to determine if vaccines are as safe as the FDA and CDC say they are.

As we witness his efforts unfold, we can only hope that his actions will align with his words.

REFERENCES:

https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-vaccines-779495533a80ba142086a9621d75a59c

https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/trump-harris-election-day-results-2024/card/u-s-food-industry-frets-over-trump-s-rfk-jr-embrace-VJx6J2SQ4w7qZz2xXHZN

https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-has-plan-make-americas-children-healthy-again-its-good-one-opinion-1957026

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4968959-rfk-jr-trump-white-house/

https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender_category/agency-capture/

With RFK Jr. Poised to Assume Key Role in Public Health, Kids Could Finally Have an Ally in Washington

[Home] Home 2023

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