Dear Friends,  

Today, the provincial government extended all emergency orders currently in force until May 29, 2020. That includes the closure of bars and restaurants except for takeout and delivery only, and restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people. Read more here. 

The Premier and Minister of Education also announced that schools would remain closed for the remainder of the school year, citing continued concern for safety. We support this decision, but I also know that parents right now are facing some tough choices with some being called back to work while schools and child care centres remain closed. That’s a gap the government needs to address.  

In my statement in response to the minister’s announcement, I also made it clear the plan for an eventual return to schools in the fall needs to be made in partnership with education workers, parents and school boards – and it needs to be funded to ensure that the necessary supports are in place to reintegrate kids.  
 

Here are some more important announcements from today:

Ford refuses full public inquiry into long-term care, announces “independent commission” 

This afternoon at the legislature, Doug Ford’s Conservatives voted unanimously against an NDP motion to hold a thorough, non-partisan, independent public inquiry into long-term care. 

Since the pandemic began, more than 4,400 residents and staff at Ontario long term care homes have contracted COVID-19, with over 1,400 deaths to date, and more infections and deaths expected. 

Ford has instead insisted on holding a government-controlled commission instead of a public inquiry. As NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said “A government-controlled commission is just a review —a back-room process that won’t give long-term care residents and their families, seniors entering care, and loved ones of COVID-19 victims the voice they deserve, the respect they deserve, or the major overhaul to long-term care that all long-term care residents need and deserve.” 

Personal Support Worker Day

More businesses permitted to open up today 

Summer camps 

City-run summer day camps and recreation programs have already been canceled in light of COVID-19, and today the provincial government announced that overnight camps across the province would not be permitted to operate. The Government indicated that day camps might be able to re-open, but that the decision would be made by local health authorities. I know this is disappointing news for a lot of families, but many camps are looking at new ways to engage campers this summer so stay tuned!

May 17: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia 

In the face of discrimination and violence, LGBTQIA2S+ people have thrived by building resilient communities, supporting one another and standing up to hate. 

On May 17, we recognized the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. This year, the day comes at a time when those community networks have been disrupted by COVID-19. Many of the spaces where people have found safety and community are closed, and some are at risk of closing for good. Young people may find themselves isolated for their health, but at the expense of being themselves. 

I want to recognize the work of people in Davenport and across the country who are working to support and defend the LGBTQIA2S+ community, including the team at the George Chuvalo Neighbourhood Centre who have been finding new ways to reach out and support queer youth. 

Together and apart, we stand against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia. 

Oasis-Dufferin Community Centre needs your help 

Davenport’s Oasis-Dufferin Community Centre at Hallam and Dufferin is reporting a massive surge in users of their food bank, with upwards of 30-40 new families using the service each week. As the pandemic’s impacts strain the finances of more people in our community, it really underlines the need for greater supports from all levels of government.  

While we continue advocating for that, if you are able to assist Oasis-Dufferin you can learn how on their website at: www.oasisdufferin.org 

Public Health Updates

Toronto.ca/coronavirus

Information from Toronto Public Health on local cases, how to protect yourself and where to seek further medical support.

Ontario.ca/coronavirus

Information from Ontario’s Ministry of Health and Long Term Care

Find out how to protect yourself, what to do if you’re sick and how to recognize possible symptoms. Updated twice daily, in 30 languages.

Canada.ca/coronavirus

Information from the Government of Ontario and the Public Health Agency of Canada

Updates on the national response and access to emergency support benefits.