Built to Erase Us

Canada’s Leading Caribbean Newspaper

Volume 14 • Issue 10

Wednesday, June 18 2025

“Beneath the hype of diplomacy and human rights, secret agreements are quietly stripping away: our sovereignty, our privacy, our mobility. Guess who has no say? Not governments, or community leaders, you and I are invisible in these conversations...”

FULL STORY - PAGE 8

PAGE 2

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Photo Credit: Helen Gaidatsis

Written by Paul Junor Toronto Caribbean News

Dr. Camille Logan’s legacy of equity and excellence When Dr. Camille Logan began her career as a classroom teacher in the York Region District School Board (YRDSB), few could have predicted the trail she would blaze across Ontario’s public education system. Her journey from educator to Associate Director of Education is one of: grit, grace, and groundbreaking change, rooted in a deep commitment to equity, human rights, and justice.

Born in Canada to Dr. Lloyd Logan and Madge Logan, Camille’s pursuit of excellence was embedded in her DNA. Her mother, a revered administrator with the former North York Board of Education, retired after 38 years of service in 2002, an example that would shape Camille’s path. Her husband Gregory Banfield and two sons, Myles and Quincy, along with her connection to the Black, African, and Caribbean diasporas of Canada, have been her rock and inspiration throughout.

Dr. Logan’s educational ascent is as impressive as it is inspiring. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Education from York University and completed her Ph.D. at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto.

Her doctoral thesis, A Critique of School Board Selection Practice and the Under-Representation of Racialized Educators in the Principalship, laid the intellectual groundwork for her lifelong mission: confronting systemic inequity.

Starting as an elementary teacher at Aldergrove Public and Randall Public School, Dr. Logan later became principal at Parkview Public School. Her leadership skills caught the attention of the wider system, leading to roles as: Vice Prin-

cipal, Superintendent, Executive Superintendent, and finally Associate Director of School Improvement and Equity.

Across her 29 years with YRDSB and four with the Peel District School Board (PDSB), she championed meaningful change. Among her many accomplishments: • • • •

Co-founded the Alliance of Educators for Black Students (AEBS) to support Black student achievement.

Helped launch the Ontario National Alliance of Black School Educators (ONABSE) in 2013.

Created the Nubian Book Club, an intergenerational summer literacy initiative.

Led the Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy, the Inaugural Parent Voice Matters Symposium, and multiple inclusive education and recruitment initiatives.

Dr. Logan’s time at PDSB was equally impactful.

She led transformative initiatives such as: • • • • •

The Centre of Black Excellence The Mawjading Wingushkeng Centre for Indigenous Excellence Revised Safe and Caring Schools Policy (#48) Two-Spirit LGBTIA+ Action Plan We Rise Together 2.0: Black Student Success Strategy

Her secondment to the Ministry of Education brought further influence. She authored the Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Monograph, advised on Ontario’s Equity Strategy: Realizing the Prom-

ise of Diversity, and helped redefine Inclusive Design as a framework for school improvement.

Camille’s leadership has been widely recognized. She was named one of the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women in 2016, received the Harmony National Leadership in Education Award in 2013, and the Distinguished Leadership Award from the Ontario Public Supervisory Officers Association in 2020.

Her April 22nd retirement celebration at Bellevue Manor was a heartfelt tribute to her enduring legacy. Educators, former students, and community leaders filled the venue, offering performances and emotional reflections. Pianists Deborah Knott and Mickey Maharaj opened the event, while world-renowned musician Quincy Bullen, a YRDSB graduate, delivered a musical tribute.

Dr. Avis Glaze, former Associate Director at YRDSB and a longtime mentor, summed up Camille’s legacy with grace, “Her footprints stand the test of relevance, timelessness, and applicability, leaving legacies that resonate because they continue to impact the life chances of our young people. She is a research-driven educator of the highest integrity, a Renaissance Woman with diverse talents.”

The praise continued.

Rashmi Swarup, Director of Education at PDSB, called Camille “A transformative visionary,” while PDSB Board Chair David Green thanked her for “Standing tall with integrity for all children.”

Former Associate Director Cecil Roach reflected on her legacy with admiration, “Whether working as

a teacher, principal, or system leader, Camille’s commitment to the success and wellbeing of all students was unwavering. Her retirement has certainly left a void in public education in Ontario.”

Donna Cardoza, a community colleague, delivered one of the most powerful tributes of the night, “She radiates compassion, transparency, and a remarkable lack of self-importance. She: uplifts others, cheers them on, and helps them rise. Her presence changes spaces. Her leadership transforms lives.”

She continued, “Camille is the conscience of our community. She asks the critical questions, stays the course, and is always anchored in truth. She leads not for power, but out of love and the pursuit of a more just world.”

Dr. Logan’s legacy was beautifully encapsulated in a painting titled Black Excellence

by Kiara Rose, a Grade 12 student at Mayfield Secondary School. The painting depicts diverse students in graduation caps, an ode to the power of representation and the pursuit of collective excellence.

Reflecting on the piece, Camille shared, “It symbolizes excellence through the depiction of diverse students achieving success, illustrating how excellence manifests across the diaspora.”

As she steps into retirement, Dr. Logan leaves behind a legacy defined by transformation.

Her work was never about personal accolades; it was always about lifting others: students, educators, and communities. Grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, “I am because we are” she has become a force of nature.

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Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS & VIEWS

PAGE 3

What is Bill C‑2, and will it make Canada less safe for our communities?

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The Liberal government’s new national security and border omnibus legislation, Bill C‑2: The Strong Borders Act, requires a critical gaze. This push to “Secure the border” poses real threats to our: Afro‑In‑ do‑Caribbean families, communities, and collective conscience.

Many of us cherish Canada as a refuge, but what happens when our own nation echoes policies that vilify migration? Bill C‑2 arms authorities with sweeping powers including increased surveillance, data-sharing, and retroac‑ tive barriers to claiming asylum. These changes lack necessary oversight, dis‑ proportionately affecting racialized fami‑ lies, international students, survivors of domestic violence, and those navigating precarious living conditions.

I am going to break this bill down to its bare bones. The bill bars people in Canada for over a year from claiming refugee protection, unless fast-tracked through pre-removal risk assessment.

Cabinet can cancel, or suspend: work per‑ mits, student visas, and refugee claims without transparent due process.

It has been reported that politi‑

cal pressure from the U.S. (namely Trumpera criticisms over fentanyl) seems to drive some of these provisions, but is fear a legitimate motivator for dismantling rights and privacy?

Bill C‑2 creates a two-tier society: one where privilege protects status, and another where bureaucratic oversight can uproot lives arbitrarily. Is the Canada we envision one that corrals: refugees, students, and migrant workers with sus‑ picion?

For our Afro‑Indo‑Caribbean folks (many of whom are: newcomers, international students, or rely on precari‑ ous status), this matters deeply. Imagine arriving in 2021 to work in Canada, then watching your homeland descend into violence. Under Bill C‑2, you may face de‑ portation merely for missing a one‑year window to claim asylum. Think about the family that depends on remittances, or the student who must choose between speaking up and losing status.

These measures show: mistrust, shame, and anxiety. In psychological terms, we risk internalizing that our lives are conditional, easily revoked. We risk normalizing intimidation disguised as re‑ form. We risk being complicit.

Bill C‑2 is moving through Parlia‑ ment, and if this impacts you, now is the time to use your voice, and voice your rights. Contact your Member of Parlia‑ ment, the Public Safety Minister, and the Prime Minister today. Not sure what to write? Don’t worry! That is what I am here for. Below is an example of a letter that you can email (adjust according to your

voice, and your own thoughts), ‘“I am opposed to Bill C‑2 be‑ cause it arbitrarily limits refugee claims, expands warrantless surveillance, and enables mass revocation of status with‑ out due process.”

Ask: “Are we actually protecting Canadians?” Then ask yourself, “Who in my community would be most harmed by this bill?”

We must insist on a fairer Cana‑ da, one built on compassion and rights.

Pause this bill for: public debate, inde‑ pendent oversight, and community-

informed justice. Replace fear-based policies with measures that tackle root causes: affordable housing, real border security through intelligence sharing with accountability, and funded refugee processes.

Our Afro-Indo-Caribbean heri‑ tage teaches us that: resilience, creativity, and community can turn struggle into liberation. Let us stand, together, for a Canada that doesn’t hide cruelty behind the veneer of security. Send that email.

Make that call.

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Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 5

A Message to Our Community From My Heart to Yours At the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, our mission has always been rooted in the same promise: to uplift our community, to give a platform to those whose stories deserve to be heard, and to keep our readers connected and informed. Over the years, we’ve grown alongside you — celebrating our culture, our businesses, our youth, and our everyday heroes.

I am so proud of what we’ve built together. This paper is more than ink on a page or words on a screen; it’s a gathering place for our ideas, our achievements, and our hopes for tomorrow. And today, I want to thank you — our loyal readers, our dedicated advertisers, our neighbours, and our supporters — for making this possible.

Because of you, we continue to expand and evolve in ways that keep our community strong and united.

As we look ahead, our goal is to reach even more households and businesses, to share more stories, and to highlight the voices that make our community one of the most vibrant in Toronto. To do that, we’re growing our team and welcoming new faces who share our passion for community building and local storytelling.

We’re currently looking for motivated, community-minded individuals who want to be part of this exciting next chapter. If you love connecting with people, supporting local businesses, and playing a key role in community growth, then this opportunity could be a perfect fit for you.

Our sales representatives enjoy generous, uncapped commissions, with earnings that grow based on the length and success of each advertising partnership they build. This is not just a sales position — it’s a chance to

strengthen ties between local businesses and their customers, while helping our newspaper expand its reach and impact. You’ll be part of a supportive team that values your ideas and celebrates your successes.

We know how important it is for businesses to have a trusted, local advertising partner — and our readers trust us because they know we care deeply about our neighbourhoods and our people. When you join our team, you become part of that trusted circle, helping businesses grow and keeping our community informed and connected.

If you, or someone you know, is ready to grow professionally and be part of something meaningful, I would love to hear from you. This is your chance to step into a rewarding role that offers flexibility, strong earning potential, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re contributing to something bigger than just a paycheck. It’s an opportunity to build real relationships and watch your efforts help local businesses flourish.

You can reach out to me directly at trish@carib101.com or call our office at 647-722-6298 to learn more about this opportunity. I’m always happy to talk, answer your questions, and welcome new friends to our Toronto Caribbean Newspaper family.

To everyone who has been with us every step of the way — thank you.

Your trust and support fuel every issue we publish and every community connection we make. Together, we are not just surviving; we are growing, thriving, and making sure that our stories, voices, and dreams continue to shine for generations to come.

CANADA’S LEADING CARIBBEAN NEWSPAPER Selina McCallum TC REPORTER selina@carib101.com

Noel Cunningham FOOD | CULINARY noel@carib101.com

Dave Rankin AFRICAN HISTORY dave@carib101.com

Jay Brijpaul REAL ESTATE jay@carib101.com

TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC. 55 Rutherford Rd. S., Suite 205, Brampton ON L6W 3J3 647-722-6298 | www.TOCaribNews.com

Simone J. Smith TC REPORTER simone@carib101.com

Dave Rankin TC REPORTER dave@carib101.com

Dr. Vikas Puri HEALTH | WELLNESS drpuri@carib101.com

Paul Junor EDUCATION paul@carib101.com

Fazaad Bacchus FINANCE SPECIALIST fazaad@carib101.com

PUBLISHER | EDITOR Grant Browning grant@carib101.com

Michael Thomas TC REPORTER michael@carib101.com

Christina Gwira TC TECH REPORTER christina@carib101.com

Errol A. Gibbs PHILOSOPHER errol@carib101.com

Brittney Channer SOCIAL JUSTICE brittney@carib101.com

Andrew Stewart FAMILY INSURANCE andrew@carib101.com

EDITOR | PROOFING Alanna Zelau alanna@carib101.com

Stephen Weir TC REPORTER stephen@carib101.com

Paul Junor TC EDUCATION REPORTER paul@carib101.com

Simone J. Smith HUMAN SPECIALIST simone@carib101.com

Christina Gwira TECHNOLOGY christina@carib101.com

Kayla Karim CARIBBEAN SPORTS kayla@carib101.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER Trish Browning trish@carib101.com

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The statements, opinions and viewpoints made or expressed by the writers do not necessarily represent the opinions and views of the Toronto Caribbean, or the publishers. Toronto Caribbean News Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for claims, statements, opinions or views, written or reported by its contributing writers, including product or service information that is advertised.

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NEWS & VIEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Afro‑Indo Caribbean consumers face targeted messages from a consumption engine, so here’s what to know SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

In Canada alone, advertising spend hit nearly $21 billion in 2023, matched only by the entire Quebec education budget, and up 33 % since 2018. That enormous investment does more than sell us fast fashion and SUVs; it normalizes consump‑ tion, shaping what happiness looks like.

“Advertising is the gasoline that keeps the overconsumption engine roar‑ ing. And overconsumption is the fuel be‑ hind the climate crisis,” warns Julie‑Chris‑ tine Denoncourt, Équiterre’s source reduction analyst. Indeed, 30 years of data from France and the U.S. attribute 5 – 7 % increases in consumption directly to advertising expenditures.

You see, advertising sells life‑ styles more than products. In Quebec,

Greenhouse Gas emissions tied to ad‑ vertised consumption were 10.3 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in 2023, roughly equal to emissions from one‑third of all Québec cars.

Similarly, promotion of large ve‑ hicles (light‑duty trucks, vans, SUVs) con‑ stitutes a major climate liability. These ve‑ hicles accounted for nearly 80 % of new vehicle sales in 2020, emitting on average 31 % more GHGs per kilometre than stan‑ dard cars. Advertising employs themes of nature, ruggedness, safety, and financ‑ ing deals to rekindle desire for vehicles that directly undermine Canada’s climate goals. Let me be clear that these are their goals.

Industry insiders voice growing discomfort with the work they do. Cre‑ ative director “Sophie” confessed: “Al‑ ways having to do more, better, faster… it often comes at your own expense,” and Catherine, a former copywriter, said, “What’s the point of making myself sick to get people to buy junk they don’t even need?”

These aren’t isolated stories.

Overconsumption depletes both the planet and the people, and though agen‑

cies are rethinking their purpose, un‑ checked advertising still steers society toward consumption-heavy norms. Équiterre proposes a paradigm shift: regulate advertising to foster sobri‑ ety: consuming less, repairing more, shar‑ ing resources Their recommendations include: • • •

Independent advisory committees to guide auto‑ad regulations Limits on eco‑claims, requiring ads to reflect true impact A broader ban on misleading or in‑ tensive consumerism‑driven mes‑ saging.

Such practices already exist for tobacco and alcohol; it’s time to apply them to fast fashion, electronics, autos, and beyond.

As Afro/Indo Caribbean consumers (of‑ ten targeted with aspirational imagery and materialistic values) it’s vital to rec‑ ognize how ads frame our desires. They tell us buying more equals success, but the broader cost is existential: planetary breakdown, inequity, psychological bur‑ dens.

“I’d get home...wonder what I

had contributed to.” That statement from a sector-leaving marketer encapsulates a collective awakening. We too must ques‑ tion, “Do I really need this? Are we chas‑ ing fleeting status or genuine joy?”

Before succumbing to an ad’s allure, pause. Ask, “Do I need this, or do I want it because ads sell me status or identity?” Unsubscribe from fast‑fashion and auto-dealer newsletters. Opt for sus‑ tainable, repairable, second-hand goods.

Elevate your voice through petitions, ad‑ vocacy, and support for ad‑regulation reforms that limit misleading marketing and eco‑unverified claims. Embrace “de‑ consumption.” Refuse unnecessary items, repair what you own, and prioritize expe‑ riences and community over objects.

In a media environment engi‑ neered to spark desire, it’s our awareness that becomes the first line of defense. We are more than consumers, we are com‑ munity builders, creatives, storytellers, stewards of culture and planet. Our pur‑ chasing choices ripple outward to ecosys‑ tems, economies, and collective well‑be‑ ing.

First Fridays Toronto celebrates 31 years of power, purpose, and progress PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There was a powerful turnout of Black entrepreneurs, community leaders, and business professionals at the First Fri‑ days Toronto 31st Anniversary Celebra‑ tion, held on Friday, June 6th, 2025, at the breathtaking Globe & Mail Centre. Billed as “Celebrating 31 years of Black Excel‑ lence, Connection and Community,” the evening embodied the event’s tagline: “Where networking meets impact.”

The night’s theme, “Keys to Suc‑ cess from Uplifting Founders,” framed a compelling panel discussion that high‑ lighted the entrepreneurial spirit driving Black communities in Canada and across the diaspora.

According to its website firstfri‑ days.ca, First Fridays is “an exciting net‑ working event that has occurred on the

first Friday of every month since it began in 1994.” The event attracts a mix of en‑ trepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and organizations from African-Canadian and broader multicultural communities.

What makes First Fridays unique: • Monthly themes: Every event is centered around a new theme with speakers to match.

• Dynamic presenters: Audiences hear directly from leaders shaping the future of Black enterprise.

• Vendor booths: Local businesses showcase their products and ser‑ vices through exclusive in-person or virtual setups.

The highlight of the evening was a panel moderated by media personality Kerry Lee Crawford, featuring four dynamic founders: 1. Melissa Ellis, Founder of Nobellum — A female-led tech and social en‑ terprise empowering the Black busi‑ ness ecosystem.

2. Colin Lynch, Co-Founder of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) — A Canadian charity that funds Black-

led initiatives to dismantle anti-Black racism.

3. Efosa KC Obanor, Founder of Black Founders Network and the African Impact Initiative — Supporting ear‑ ly-stage innovators committed to uplifting Africa and its diaspora.

4. Amoye Henry, Founder of Labs Part‑ ner — Canada’s first venture studio dedicated to scaling Black womenled tech ventures.

The conversation flowed with authentic‑ ity as each panelist shared hard-earned lessons from their entrepreneurial jour‑ neys. Their stories of overcoming system‑ ic barriers, personal doubt, and resource gaps offered a realistic and empowering roadmap to success.

Moses A. Wawa, President & CEO of Silvertrust Media, Afroglobal Televi‑ sion, and the Transformation Institute, addressed the crowd about his ongo‑ ing work in amplifying Black voices. The event was recorded and will air on Af‑ roglobal Television via Rogers Cable 708, Bell 742, Telus 271, Ignite 884, and East‑ link 886. More details are available at Af‑ roglobalTelevision.com.

Alain Arthur of Caribbean Vibra‑ tions TV also took the mic, honouring co-founder Royette Baptiste, who passed away in 2012. Caribbean Vibrations, founded in 2003, remains a cultural sta‑ ple, broadcasting to over 250,000 weekly viewers via caribevibetv.com.

The evening’s energy soared with a live performance by award-win‑ ning poet, author, and arts educator Na‑ dine Williams. Her spoken word set was both motivational and moving. On Face‑ book, she wrote, “As an entrepreneur, I understand what an incredible milestone this is. To be a vendor, touching the mic is a must; how else are you selling all the things? Always a vibe with this crowd.”

Mark your calendars for upcoming events: • Summer Grove Cruise: Canada Day, Tuesday, July 1st Hosted by Warren Salmon, Pedro Hotstepper, Eddie Williams, George Flynn & Friends. DJs include Mark Anthony, Nigel B, Smooth B, and Dave Campbell.

• Finance & Real Estate Edition: Friday, July 4th

NEWS & VIEWS

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 7

“Eating callaloo everyday won’t boost my iron?”

The iron connection every African woman must know SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

She was radiant, glowing with expectancy and pride as her family wrapped her in love.

What they couldn’t see behind the smile was fatigue that clung like fog. Brittle nails, a heart that raced too fast, and a doctor’s note quietly confirming iron deficiency anemia.

For many African and Caribbean women, this is an intergenerational crisis hidden in plain sight.

Iron isn’t just a nutrient. It is the oxygen highway for your blood, the engine behind your baby’s brain development, and the very thing that protects you from postpartum complications. Yet, African women: both on the African continent, and across the diaspora, are consistently more likely to enter pregnancy with dangerously low iron levels.

Fact: Studies show that iron deficiency during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, impaired

brain development, and even stillbirth. (Lancet Haematology, 2022) Why? The foods we love and trust: our soups, our teas, our staple grains, can quietly block iron from doing its job.

What’s hiding in our meals?

Let’s talk real talk. Many of our traditional meals are full of nutrients, but if we don’t combine them wisely, we risk under nourishing ourselves in a critical season.

gent decisions in our lives. An unfortunate fact is that across the globe, African-descended women face a higher risk of iron deficiency for reasons that go beyond food: • • •

Fibroids (more common in African women) cause heavier bleeding Chronic stress and cortisol imbalance reduce nutrient absorption Healthcare bias means sometimes symptoms are dismissed, or underdiagnosed Economic barriers can limit access to prenatal supplements, or fresh food

Here are some silent iron blockers: • Black tea, bush tea, or coffee with breakfast • Polyphenols block iron absorption • Green bananas, plantain, cassava, beans • Phytates in these staples can bind to iron • Heavy dairy, or calcium supplements • Compete directly with iron for absorption • Spinach and beet greens • Contain oxalates that make iron harder to access

•

“I thought eating callaloo every day would boost my iron,” one of my friends said to me when I was speaking with her about it. “No one told me that when I paired it with my tea, I was cancelling out the benefit.”

This is why I am here; to learn and then share, so that we can all make intelli-

Iron-Boosting Strategies: • Add citrus: Squeeze lemon on your greens or pair beans with orange slices—vitamin C increases iron absorption up to 300%.

• Time your tea: Drink herbal teas, or coffee at least 1–2 hours after meals.

Iron deficiency alters the way a child’s brain develops in utero, and this can influence: IQ, attention span, and learning capacity well into school age.

How to nourish you and baby right Let’s flip the script. Here’s how African Caribbean women can protect themselves and their children, without giving up our food heritage.

• • • •

Separate calcium: Take dairy or supplements away from iron-rich meals.

Cook in cast iron pans: Yes, for real; it increases iron in your food naturally.

Double down on heme iron: Red meat, liver, sardines, or chicken are more absorbable than plant iron.

Supplement smart: Ask for low-constipation iron options (like ferrous bisglycinate) and take with a bit of juice, not dairy.

Of course, speak to a trusted medical professional before making any major changes to your diet to ensure you are getting everything that your body needs. What we now know; iron is our quiet power. In many African traditions, women are the keepers of strength, the roots of generations, but strength isn’t just in our hips, or hands; it’s in our blood, and what we carry into the womb, we pass to the world.

This is about generational health justice. It’s about ensuring our babies are born strong, alert, and ready, because we prepared wisely before.

So, the next time someone tells you to “Just eat more callaloo,” you will know better. You’ll eat with purpose, pair foods wisely, and walk into motherhood nourished like the queen you are. Share this with every woman you love.

Sweet Like Honey! Canada’s most iconic women’s music showcase turns 30 SYDNEE WALCOTT sydnee@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

What began as a one-time opportunity evolved into something far more impactful.

Founded by Ebonnie Rowe in 1995, Honey Jam is a nonprofit, multicultural, and multi-genre artist development program for emerging female artists. Over the last three decades, it has become a cultural touchstone, opening doors for hundreds of women in music, especially Black and Caribbean-Canadian artists.

Two major shifts helped shape Honey Jam’s evolution: technology and funding. “There was no internet when we started,” Rowe reflects. In the early days, promotion relied on phone calls, fax machines, and mailing flyers. Now, Honey Jam’s work is easily accessible online, al-

Located in Mattawa, Ontario

$189,900

lowing broader visibility and reach.

Funding has also come a long way.

Rowe, who worked full-time at a law firm, personally financed the program for nearly 15 years. Today, corporate sponsorships allow Honey Jam to host events in large venues, bring in speakers, and offer resources artists once only dreamed of. With just a laptop, artists can now produce music from home; a game changer.

Yet Honey Jam wasn’t supposed to last. “There was never a long-term plan,” says Rowe. “I said I’d try it for a year.” Thirty years later, it’s a legacy.

Initially rooted in hip-hop, Honey Jam was Rowe’s response to the genre’s misogyny. The early shows were R&B and hip-hop-heavy, and the artists were predominantly Black. That changed when Nelly Furtado auditioned.

After Furtado’s genre-breaking performance, a new wave of artists from different backgrounds and genres joined the fold. Honey Jam embraced the shift, welcoming everyone from jazz singers to opera performers.

On July 30th, 2025, Honey Jam celebrates its 30th anniversary with a major concert. The lineup is a reflection of its diversity: hip-hop, jazz, pop, gospel, opera,

R&B, rock, country, dancehall, and, for the first time, soca.

Trinidadian artist Blue Will will deliver the inaugural soca performance, bridging old-school and new-school styles.

“I’m grateful and excited,” she says, recalling her journey from The Mod Club to the legendary Massey Hall. She’ll honour two of Trinidad and Tobago’s best-known female soca artists in her set.

The event is strategically timed just days before Toronto Caribbean Carnival (still lovingly referred to as Caribana), reinforcing Honey Jam’s deep ties to the Afro-Caribbean community.

“The spirit of love and community is very important,” says Rowe, who has kept ticket prices affordable. “I want everyone to have an escape from all the madness in the world and just come together.”

This milestone isn’t just for the headliners. Youth, emerging artists, and students from community programs will also be in the audience. “I want them to be inspired by the artists performing, by the level of excellence,” Rowe shares.

Looking ahead, Rowe hopes for more sustainable funding. Many nonprofits are struggling due to economic instability and sociopolitical backlash. She refers

to the current climate as the “Trump Trickle Down,” pointing to funding losses at organizations like Pride Toronto. U.S.-based parent companies, she notes, are pulling support from anything tied to: race, gender, or sexual orientation.

Tariffs haven’t helped either. “Sustainable funding means we can keep doing the work supporting and uplifting emerging talent.”

Rowe, a first-generation Canadian with Barbadian roots, spent part of her childhood in Barbados. She vividly recalls her strict primary school teacher, the same woman who taught Prime Minister Mia Mottley. “She wore a leather strap around her neck,” Rowe laughs, remembering how she got hit for scoring 9/10 on a math test.

“She thought I could do better.”

That ethos has stayed with her. “If better is possible, good is not enough.” It’s the bedrock of her leadership. “There are no days off,” she adds. “The buck starts and ends with you.”

As Honey Jam celebrates 30 years of breaking barriers, Rowe remains clear on one thing: it wouldn’t have happened without the media, the public, and the sponsors who believed in her vision.

PAGE 8

NEWS & VIEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

The Treaties you Never Voted for are Already Deciding Where you Live, What you Earn, and Whether you’re Allowed to Stay SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Let’s get real. Most of what we are told: about global cooperation, about green recovery, about safety is propaganda. Beneath the hype of diplomacy and human rights, secret agreements are quietly stripping away: our sovereignty, our privacy, our mobility. Guess who has no say? Not governments, or community leaders, you and I are invisible in these conversations.

If you are Afro/Indo-Caribbean, this isn’t abstract. Thin: families fleeing climate shocks, migrants seeking sanctuary, entrepreneurs running small businesses, dual‑citizens sending money home. These hidden treaties hit our communities hardest, and today we are going to take a look at past and present agreements that are going to impact us, and they all lead to?

You guessed it! Agenda 2030.

Canada–China FIPA (Oct 1st, 2014) This so-called Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement gives Chinese investors the right to sue Canada for almost any policy they claim “harms their profits” No transparency. No democratic oversight. Just backroom privilege for powerful capital.

Imagine you run a community solar co‑op, or affordable‑housing initiative.

A Chinese firm rolls in, challenges your zoning rules and Canada has to defend you,

or pay up. Local Afro/Indo‑Caribbean‑led projects get bulldozed. That’s colonialism in slow motion, and we know how colonialism has caused intergenerational trauma that many of us are still working through.

Canada–US Safe Third Country Agree‑ ment (STCA, expanded Mar 25th, 2023) This pact forces most refugees crossing land borders to apply asylum in whichever “safe” country they hit first. Canada’s NGOs (CCLA, CCR, Rainbow Railroad, Amnesty Int’l) are calling to suspend it, given the U.S. ‘s increasingly hostile stance toward African, Indian, and queer migrants.

Haitian, Jamaican, or Afro‑Caribbean families escaping danger can be turned away, sent to U.S. detention, without their stories being heard. That’s traumatizing, and it erases our humanity.

FATCA via Canada–US Intergovernmen‑ tal Agreement (Signed Feb 2014, Active Jun 2014) Under FATCA, Canadian financial institutions hand over account info of U.S. citizens (or those with ties) to the IRS. Our privacy evaporates.

Dual citizens (Afro/Indo Caribbeans) are targeted. Your modest savings, your diaspora remittances, they all get flagged. Courts tossed challenges calling it unconstitutional. Bottom line? Our wealth is monitored, our future is surveilled.

Canada’s “Strong Borders Act”—Bill C‑2 (June 2025) This new legislation is a punch in the gut, a surveillance apparatus for our bodies. Expanded mail searches, Coast Guard checks, border ID-sharing, restrictions on asylum, even retroactive exclusion dating back to June 2020.

Critics call it xenophobic and racist, and they’re not wrong, but let’s face it: Afro‑ and Indo‑Caribbean immigrants already struggle with visa delays and bureaucratic hell. Now, entire families could be locked out permanently.

UN‑WEF Multistakeholder Alliance (June 13th, 2019) Here’s where it gets dense, but important.

The UN and the World Economic Forum agreed to a strategic partnership in 2019, inviting private actors into UN‑level policymaking. Climate. Health. Labor. Education.

Food systems. All under corporate influence, not public representation.

For Caribbean and diaspora communities, this means policy is decided by boardrooms, not community meetings.

When families rebuild after hurricanes, or push for fair wages, decision-makers are faceless executives thousands of miles away.

UNDRIP (Canada’s 2021 UNDRIP Act) Canada’s adoption of the UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples is good on paper, but what is happening is about shifting legal paradigms.

If Afro or Indo‑Caribbeans mobilize for land, reparations, or cultural recognition, we are now forced into frameworks built for Indigenous communities. We may be silenced because we didn’t fit the mold, because our claims don’t match the prescribed legal pathways.

Agenda 2030 & The Great Reset; The Heart of the Machine All these moves tie back to a bigger design: global governance disguised as sustainability, equality, and innovation. These frameworks are about centralizing power:

• • •

Elite control: government decisions passed to multinational corporations via UN‑WEF structures.

Surveillance: financial (FATCA), migratory (STCA, C‑2), border (C‑2).

Contracted rights: corporate arbitration over community-led projects (FIPA) and tailored identity frameworks (UNDRIP).

It’s 2025, and we as a people are being forced into systems that ignore and reduce us. I’m not just here to expose problems.

I’m giving you a checklist: 1.

Demand transparency. ISDS deals and UN‑WEF forums? Open them up to public scrutiny, especially when they affect our: schools, our farms, our shelters.

2. Back legal battles. Support frontline lawsuits and challenges like those facing: FATCA surveillance, STCA deportations, or Canada’s Strong Borders.

3. Speak up. We need Afro/Indo‑Caribbean leaders at policy tables whether it’s: climate justice, trade, or immigration. No more being silent observers.

4. Network smart. Link up diaspora communities, NGOs, local journalists.

Build a political block that these deepstate deals can’t ignore.

This isn’t a drill. These pacts aren’t waiting for 2030; they are already reshaping how Afro and Indo‑Caribbean communities: live, travel, think, and trade. It’s urgent, it’s stealthy, and it’s ours to fight.

Wake up. Learn who’s signing what. Rally. Speak loudly. Build networks, because if we don’t fight now, we’ll find our freedom is gone, and with it, our future.

The Black Physicians’ Association of Ontario celebrates the unstoppable rise of Black Women In Medicine ment.

PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

It was a prestigious and special occasion at the Black Physicians’ Association of Ontario (BPAO) Awards Gala, held on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, at Toronto’s Liberty Grand.

Themed “Empowering Healers: Honouring the Legacy and Leadership of Black Women in Medicine,” the gala brought together some of the most accomplished minds in Ontario’s Black medical community.

An official email from BPAO on May 29th, 2025, outlined the event’s purpose: “This event specifically fundraises for BPAO’s efforts around fostering a more inclusive and equitable future advocating for the next generation of Black physicians, ensuring they have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to thrive and continue this legacy of excellence.”

Further details from BPAO noted the gala’s mission: to honour pioneers in mentorship, advocacy, and medical innovation, while spotlighting individuals and organizations who uplift their communities with joy, excellence, and empower-

The stylish and joy-filled evening was co-emceed by Neil Isaac (BPAO Board Member) and Dr. Mojola Omole. Distinguished guests, family, friends, and community members filled the room with energy and elegance. Following a night of tributes and recognition, the dance floor came alive with celebration.

A historic moment graced the gala as Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, newly elected as the first Black woman President of the Ontario Medical Association (OMA), addressed attendees. In her role, she will advocate on behalf of Ontario’s physicians, residents, and medical students.

Several prestigious awards were pre‑ sented: Excellence in Teaching Award Recognizes exceptional Black physicianeducators for their innovation, equity advocacy, and community impact. Nominees: • • • • •

Dr. Bourne Auguste – Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Dr. Trudy McFarlane – Associate Dean of Black Flourishing, TMU Dr. Fatima Osman – Surgical Oncologist, North York General Hospital Dr. Cynthia Maxwell – VP of Medical Affairs, Women’s College Hospital Winner: Dr. Trudy McFarlane

Trailblazer in Rural Medicine Award

Celebrates visionary care in underserved communities. Nominees: • • •

Dr. Chiebere Ogbuneke – Family Physician, Sudbury Dr. Kerubo Workman – Family Physician, Chatham-Kent Winner: Dr. Chiebere Ogbuneke

Learner Leadership Award Honours medical students/residents for leadership and community service. Nominees: • • • • •

Dr. Brieanne Olibris – NOSM University Dr. Cheikh Tohouambou – MD Candidate, University of Toronto Dr. Julia Kemzang – MD Candidate, University of Ottawa Dr. Chantal Phillips – Resident, University of Ottawa Winner: Dr. Julia Kemzang

Empower Women Healers Award Celebrates Black women physicians overcoming adversity to shape Black health and education. Nominees: • • • •

Dr. Anna Jarvis – Professor Emeritus Dr. Remi Ogundimu – Former Faculty, NOSM Dr. Miriam Rossi – Former Emeritus Professor Dr. Modupe Tunde-Bygass – PresidentElect, Federation of Medical Women of

•

Canada Dr. Nana-Akwa Barnor – Pediatrician, Humber River Hospital

Heart of the Community Awards Awarded to physicians who demonstrate exceptional local impact: • • •

Dr. Jude Obomighie – Halo Medical Clinic Dr. Danielle Brown-Shreves – Restore Medical Clinics Dr. Ullanda Niel – Chief of Family Medicine, Surrey Place

Corporate Ally Award Presented to George Brown College, accepted by President Dr. Gervan Fearon.

The Tiwa (Ally) Award Awarded to Dr. Amy Gajaria for advocacy and allyship.

Longtime medical administrator Diana Alli D’Souza, who spent three decades at U of T’s Faculty of Medicine, shared reflections on Facebook, “The gala was truly an unforgettable evening marking a reunion of friendships in medicine, healthcare, and the wider community, while also sparking new connections. It was wonderful to see the esteemed legend and icon Hon. Jean Augustine grace this prestigious gala.”

To learn more, visit: www.bpao.org/news

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS & VIEWS

PAGE 9

Bureaucracy booms while Canada burns, and the community is paying the price MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

How does a country like Canada whose economy has been steadily faltering for years suddenly find the money to hire 99,000 federal public service employees in just one decade?

This is the question that the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF), along with everyday Canadians, is asking their government.

According to data from both the CTF and the government itself, Canada’s federal public service has ballooned from 258,979 employees in 2016 to 357,965 today. While the federal government did shrink its payroll by 9,807 employees in the past year, it still has 98,986 more staff than it did in 2016, a 38% increase.

When factoring in pay, pensions,

and perks, the average full-time federal bureaucrat costs taxpayers a staggering $125,300 annually, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer. The CTF estimates that if the federal bureaucracy had grown in line with population growth instead, taxpayers would be saving roughly $7 billion every year.

If that wasn’t troubling enough, several departments have more than doubled in size since 2016: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Infrastructure Canada – up 375% Women and Gender Equality Canada – up 334% RCMP External Review Committee – up 229% Elections Canada – up 173% Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada – up 158% Financial Consumer Agency of Canada – up 154% Impact Assessment Agency of Canada – up 127%

Before diving deeper into this bureaucratic bloat, I spoke with Franco Terrazzano, Federal Director at the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. His response was blunt: “Canadians cannot afford the federal govern-

ment’s costly bureaucrat hiring spree. The last thing we need is a bloated government full of highly paid paper pushers. This government must get the cost of bureaucracy under control.”

When asked what kind of government continues hiring at such levels while its citizens live in tent cities and struggle to afford groceries, Terrazzano didn’t hold back, “The federal government is completely out of touch and removed from the actual struggles of the people they are supposed to represent,” he stated. “Canadians are struggling, and we can’t afford higher taxes to fund a bloated bureaucracy, but that’s exactly what’s been happening in Ottawa for the past ten years.”

Let’s break down the numbers further.

Access-to-information records obtained by the CTF reveal that since 2020, the federal government has approved over one million pay raises for bureaucrats. In 2023 alone, 319,067 employees received raises.

The cost of the federal payroll hit a record $67 billion in 2023, a 68% increase from 2016.

To put that in perspective: • 2020: 373,134 pay raises

• • •

2021: 266,646 pay raises 2022: 162,263 pay raises Total (since 2020): 1,121,110 pay raises

It’s no wonder the current government is now recognized as the biggest spender in Canadian history, and the spending hasn’t stopped.

“They’ve hired more bureaucrats, given them higher taxpayer-funded salaries, and passed that cost on to struggling Canadians. That’s wrong,” said Terrazzano.

Despite all this, the man now steering the ship, Prime Minister Mark Carney, doesn’t seem to be pulling back.

“Prime Minister Mark Carney’s promise to cap the bureaucracy doesn’t go nearly far enough, it just entrenches the Trudeau government’s costly bureaucrat hiring spree,” Terrazzano warned. “Taxpayers need politicians willing to cut the bloated bureaucracy and make pay and perks more affordable.”

To bring the story home, I asked Terrazzano what message he had for young Canadians. His answer: “A baby born today is already on the hook for about $30,000 in federal government debt.”

Is your dad really hearing you?

The silent struggle too many Caribbean fathers face SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

You used to think your dad was ignoring you. You would speak and repeat yourself; he would nod vaguely or respond in ways that didn’t quite match the question. You would laugh it off at family dinners, “You need your ears checked!” someone would tease, but the truth was, it wasn’t funny.

It was frightening. He was slipping away from connection.

As a proud daughter of the AfroCaribbean community, and someone with a deep understanding of health and psychoeducation, I know how common this story is. Across living rooms in Toronto and Scarborough, in Brampton and Mississauga, countless fathers: Black, Indo-Caribbean, immigrant men who have worked hard all their lives, are suffering in silence. Hear-

ing loss, often brushed off as a natural part of aging, is quietly stealing their voices, confidence, and joy.

About three million Canadians live with some degree of hearing loss. Yet, according to audiologist Michèle Dostaler, 80% of them haven’t taken steps to address it. That gap is a crisis in our homes.

“For every 10-decibel decrease in hearing ability, the risk of developing dementia increases by 16%,” says Dostaler. Let that sit for a second. Something as simple as untreated hearing loss can escalate into something as devastating as cognitive decline.

It’s a reality too few in our community are talking about. Afro/Indo Caribbean families are often raised with unspoken codes: be strong, be silent, don’t complain. Many of our fathers grew up in environments where seeking medical help was seen as weakness, but avoiding hearing treatment is a sacrifice, and it’s time we shift the narrative.

Statistically, men are more likely to experience hearing loss than women. They also tend to be less likely to talk about it or seek help. Loud work environments, years of music blasting through headphones, or

social settings where voices compete with background noise, it all adds up. What hurts the most isn’t the hearing loss itself; it’s what follows.

Social isolation. Frustration. Anxiety. Our dads start sitting quietly at the edges of family functions. They nod instead of engaging. Conversations become chores. In time, that distance grows emotional, not just auditory. “He’s just tired,” we tell ourselves, but the truth is more painful: he’s withdrawing because he can’t hear us.

This Father’s Day, wouldn’t it have been nice to give our fathers something more meaningful than socks, or a new tie?

What if we gave them their connection back?

Michèle Dostaler believes that talking to our fathers about hearing health can be transformative, but the approach matters. “This is a deeply personal and vulnerable topic for men,” she says. “Frame the conversation around joy, participation, and staying connected to the life they’ve built. Make it about love, not loss.”

Thankfully, the hearing aids of today aren’t the bulky, squeaky devices our parents feared. Solutions like the: Sig-

nia Active Pro IX, or Widex Allure RIC R D are discreet, technologically advanced, and user-friendly. They: stream calls from smartphones, provide natural sound, and feel nearly invisible, but what they restore goes beyond sound; they restore self-esteem.

In Caribbean households, fathers are often seen as the rock: providers, protectors, advisors, but aging and illness can shake that identity. When a father struggles to hear, he can feel less useful, less present, less himself, and when left unspoken, that insecurity only grows.

The truth is our dads are struggling to stay present in a world growing quieter by the day. As sons and daughters, it’s our job to notice, to care, and to act.

A simple hearing check-up could be the turning point that brings your father back into the heart of the conversation, and into the life he deserves to live fully.

Sit down with him. Ask him the tough, loving questions, and if you sense he isn’t really hearing you show him how much you care by helping him hear again.

The greatest gift we can give is one that helps him stay connected to us: his voice, his presence, his peace.

PAGE 10

NEWS & VIEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

The rise of AI-powered browsers like Dia offers unprecedented convenience, but at what cost?

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

In the evolving digital age, every click, every scroll, and every search holds power.

With the launch of Dia, a sleek, AI-integrated web browser, the conversation around convenience and control has taken a sharp turn. Marketed as a beautifully designed alternative to Chrome, Dia boasts playful animations and a powerful AI sidebar; imagine having ChatGPT built right into your browsing experience. The browser can: talk to your tabs, analyze your history, compile threads, and even answer complex questions on the fly, but for Afro and Indo-Caribbean communities, the question is about intention.

Who owns the data that shapes your worldview?

For many Afro/Indo communities, the internet is a lifeline; it is a space for: connection, creativity, business, and resistance, but as AI becomes more embedded in our digital experience, the tools we use daily are becoming less neutral. The AI chatbot within Dia can scan your browser tabs and search history. It remembers. It suggests.

It learns, and while this may feel like help, it is also silent surveillance wrapped in soft tones and smooth UX design.

This is the current reality of AI integration into everyday life. Unlike older browsers, Dia initiates. It compiles, categorizes, and responds to your habits.

What you read, what you search, what you save, it all becomes part of an algorithmic profile. The convenience is tempting, but convenience is never free.

Data is gold in the age of AI. Our communities have long been mined for labour and culture, but now, increasingly, for data. Everything from dialect to digital behaviour can be monetized, often without informed consent. While many major platforms have historically ignored, or misrepresented African voices, AI systems built on flawed, or biased data are

now becoming our primary gatekeepers.

If your browser is using your history to “help” you, whose definition of help is it using?

Dia’s features are undeniably impressive. It can summarize complex information, generate emails, pull from your past searches to customize answers, and help multitask across multiple tabs. For students, entrepreneurs, and creatives, these tools offer real advantages, but here’s the deeper concern: if you are not the one curating your information stream, someone, or something else is.

We need digital sovereignty, not digital dependence.

As a community, we must ask harder questions. Who created Dia, and who funds it?

What does it mean for an AI system to interpret our online behaviour through lenses that may not reflect our values or histories? When the machine predicts what you want to know before you ask, how do you maintain independent thought?

Tools like Dia mark a shift toward a more AI-augmented internet, but augmentation without accountability can breed manipulation. Afro and Indo-Carib-

bean voices have always found a way to: push back, innovate, and adapt. Now, we need to extend that spirit to digital literacy. Understanding how these tools work is no longer optional.

So, what can you do?

First, read the fine print. Explore the privacy policy. Find out what data is being collected, how it’s stored, and who has access to it. Second, diversify your digital tools. Use browsers and apps that prioritize transparency and open-source models. Third, talk about this. Host community forums, educate your children, and question every platform that promises ease at the cost of autonomy.

There is no turning back from the AI era, but there is power in preparation.

Just as we fought for control of our stories in the physical world, we must do the same in the digital one. The future is being built with code, and we cannot afford to be passive observers.

When a browser knows your every move and thought, who really controls the narrative; you or the code behind the curtain?

Beautifully Minded is reimagining what support looks like for Afro/Indo-Caribbean caregivers PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

On May 7th, 2025, Beautifully Minded was officially launched by founder Nneka Perry in Toronto. Designed to uplift, connect, and support Black caregivers, this grassroots initiative offers culturally grounded: workshops, networking sessions, downloadable toolkits, and an active online community. Its purpose is clear: to build a safe, affirming space where caregivers can feel seen, celebrated, and supported.

The launch event, held at Campden Green Community Centre in Scarborough, featured a keynote address by Dr. Ingrid Waldron, Professor and HOPE Chair in Peace and Health at McMaster University.

For Nneka, this work is deeply

personal. She shares her experience caring for her mother, who retired early after working 16 years with the Toronto District School Board and over 28 years with The Bay and Bell Canada. Her mother was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia, a diagnosis that changed everything.

“She was always present in my life and my sister’s,” Nneka writes on her website, beautifullyminded.ca. “Alzheimer’s and dementia have changed many things, but what has never faded is her spirit. Even now, through the confusion and memory loss, there are moments of pure light: her laughter, her hugs, her smile. She still shows us what it means to love deeply and fully.”

Through the challenges of caregiving, especially as the primary support for her mother, Nneka began to feel the weight of isolation. That’s when the seed for Beautifully Minded was planted.

“We wanted to offer what we didn’t see enough of: space rooted in culture, community, and care. A space where caregivers like us can feel seen, supported, and celebrated. It’s a movement to end the stigma, build connections, and advocate for caregivers who too often go unseen.”

At the heart of the organization is the Minds That Matter initiative. Described as “Grassroots and Black-led,” the monthly program provides culturally competent resources and advocacy to address the unique challenges faced by Black families navigating dementia care.

The overarching vision is simple yet powerful, “To create a supportive network that empowers Black caregivers through culturally relevant programs and resources.” Their four core values are: • • • •

Cultural affirmation – Celebrating the rich cultural identities of Black caregivers and families Community empowerment – Fostering strong, supportive networks through shared experiences Barrier-free access – Providing equitable access to resources and support Compassionate support – Approaching every individual with empathy and understanding

One of the initiative’s standout offerings is its culturally inspired toolkit collection: practical, creative, and healing resources described as “Tangible extensions of our

care model, blending cultural connection with creativity and joy.” These include: • • • • • •

Reminiscence prompt cards – Spark cherished memories and deep conversations Personalized photo memory boxes – Encourage storytelling and connection through imagery Affirmation cards – Offer daily encouragement and emotional resilience Sensory-based activity cards – Stimulate comfort and familiarity through touch and scent Cultural colouring booklets – Provide calming, creative engagement rooted in heritage Gardening kits – Foster bonding and relaxation through shared plant care

To further the conversation and deepen education, Beautifully Minded hosted a webinar on June 5th, titled “Dementia 101,” an interactive session led by Dr. Norris exploring symptoms, stages, causes, and treatment options.

For those looking to join the movement, learn more, or access resources, visit beautifullyminded.ca.

Are Canadians being distracted while our resources disappear?

STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC COLUMNIST

Lowering trade barriers might seem like a good move for Canada, for now. Streamlining regulatory inspections and approval

processes could reduce duplication and eliminate costly paperwork, but let’s not be fooled: trade in Canada has never operated in a truly “free” zone.

Premier Doug Ford’s latest proclamation, echoed by other premiers, is likely nothing more than political theatre. Feelgood propaganda. Diversion tactics. It’s a shiny headline designed to pull our focus away from what’s really happening; politicians quietly signing deals with unknown corporations, granting them access to our lands to establish factories and extract our resources with alarming speed.

Let’s ask the real questions.

Can Ontario blueberry producers realistically compete with Saskatchewan’s famed berry farms? Will British Columbia’s superior red wines get a fair shot in Ontario’s Vintages marketplace, challenging the protected Ontario wineries that dominate shelf space? Not likely.

Quebec’s maple syrup, hydro, and steel industries will remain fiercely guarded by its Premier, and what about Central Canada’s leverage over Eastern fisheries, or Western oil? That pressure card won’t be dropped anytime soon. So how, exactly, is “free trade” supposed to work when re-

gional interests still hold all the cards?

The truth is in the contradiction.

While politicians speak of unity and seamless trade across provinces, every corner of this country clings to its own economic strongholds. It’s performative federalism at best.

Looking at the rhetoric flying around, it’s clear: free trade among the provinces is still a distant, if not impossible, dream. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Free trade domestically is a fantasy, and our leaders lack the political will, courage, or clout to make it real.

NEWS & VIEWS

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 11

Your ultimate summer kickoff; hot events & fresh community beats!

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Get ready, Toronto Caribbean family! The sun is shining, the vibes are high, and our community calendar is bursting with mustdo events that will have you living your best summer life!

From mouthwatering bites at Summerlicious to fresh finds at the Brampton Farmers’ Market 2025, from catching Movies Under the Stars to cheering on the next generation in the Youth Cricket League, the season is packed with energy and excitement. Bounce into The Big Bounce Canada and feel the pulse of change with Black People United for Change Canada. dive in, mark your calendars, and let’s make this summer unforgettable together!

Summerlicious is here Summerlicious is your chance to explore Toronto’s renowned restaurants while showing your Love Local spirit. From July 4th to 20th, gather with friends and family to enjoy three-course prix fixe lunch and dinner menus at a range of price points.

Reservations are now open Brampton Farmers’ Market 2025 Date: Every Saturday from June 14th to October 11th Time: 8:00 am to 1:00 pm Location: Main Street North (Theatre Lane to Queen Street) and Main Street South (Queen Street East to John Street) Kickstart your weekends downtown with fresh produce, tasty treats, artisan goods and lively entertainment, generously sponsored by Algoma University and Attrell Toyota. Don’t miss a dazzling performance of Dandyism presented by Luminato Festival on opening day, June 14. Visit brampton.ca/markets for weekly updates!

Movies Under the Stars Date: Fridays and Saturdays in June, July and August, starting June 14th, 2025 Location: Various locations

Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy FREE family-friendly movie nights at: Garden Square, Chinguacousy Park, Mount Pleasant Square and Gore Meadows Community Centre. Entry is free with a non-perishable food donation supporting Knights Table. Check movie listings at brampton. ca/moviesunderthestars.

Register for the Youth Cricket League Cricket continues to thrive in Brampton as the City’s Youth Cricket League makes its highly anticipated return for a second year.

Beginning July 7th, the City will kick off the summer Youth Cricket League.

The league has three age groups U9, U12 and U15 and is open to players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cricketers. The structured format includes a mixture of practices and gameplay, providing a balanced mix of skill development and game play. The 2025 Youth Cricket League is generously sponsored by Centaur Products Inc. Registration for the league is now open. Visit brampton.ca/cricket for more information about cricket in Brampton.

The Big Bounce Canada The Big Bounce Canada 2025 tour is bringing the bounciest, most action-packed experience of the year to Hamilton, ON and Markham, ON for three weekends from Friday, June 27th, through Sunday, July 13th.

Featuring The World’s Largest Bounce House, The Big Bounce Canada is the biggest touring inflatable event in the world and includes seven massive inflatable attractions: a newly expanded 24,000 sq. ft. World’s Largest Bounce House; the incredible 900+ ft. long obstacle course The Giant; the customized sports arena Sport Slam; a three-piece, space-themed wonderland airSPACE; and the newest addition, an intergalactic adventure dubbed City Xscape.

The Big Bounce Canada continues to turn up the wow-factor and push the limits of family-friendly entertainment to new heights!

Black People United for Change Canada www.blackpeopleunitedforchange.ca | blackpeopleunitedforchange@gmail.com Who we are Black People United for Change (BPUC) is a registered nonprofit grassroots organization founded to challenge systemic antiBlack racism across Canada. We are committed to creating lasting change through

advocacy, legislation, education, and peaceful mobilization.

Our vision is a Canada where Black Canadians are protected by law, recognized in policy, and free from racial barriers in every sector of society.

anti-Black racism and systemic discrimination.

What we’re doing now We have launched a national petition calling on the Canadian federal government to:

•

1.

2.

Implement anti-Black racism laws, and Deliver a formal apology to Black Canadians for centuries of systemic discrimination, marginalization, and institutional exclusion.

This petition is sponsored by MP Gord Johns and is hosted on the official House of Commons website: Sign the Petition: e-6484 To move forward in Parliament, we need 500+ verified signatures, and we are calling on Canadians, allies, and community members to sign and share widely.

Why this matters Despite Canada’s commitment to equity under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Black Canadians continue to experience: • • • •

Systemic racism in employment, education, and healthcare Racial profiling and police brutality Unfair sentencing and treatment in the justice system Exclusion from policies like the Employment Equity Act, which currently fails to name or protect Black Canadians specifically

We are inspired by the Black Class Action lawsuit, which highlights these exact injustices, especially in public service. Our petition builds upon this work to call for legal protections at a national level.

Where we started Our movement began at the provincial level in Ontario. Our petition to the Ontario Legislature was read by MPP Kristyn WongTam, and on April 11th, 2025, we held a peaceful demonstration at Queen’s Park to call for anti-Black racism laws in the province.

We’ve since expanded to the federal level, because Black Canadians across Canada deserve national protection from

Current issues Our advocacy includes addressing ongoing issues such as:

• •

Anti-Black hate in schools – including an active petition concerning the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, where children as young as four years old have reportedly been subjected to racist treatment Widespread institutional racism in policing, the courts, housing, and healthcare Lack of any federal law specifically protecting Black Canadians

Upcoming demonstration September 18th, 2025 Parliament Hill, Ottawa We will be holding a national demonstration to demand anti-Black racism legislation and recognition. We invite media, allies, and community groups to join us in support.

Our message to Canada Black Canadians are asking to live in a country that upholds the Charter rights it promises. We are asking for accountability, equity, and recognition, not only in words, but in law.

We are builders, professionals, caregivers, and leaders. We want to live in harmony, contribute to Canada’s growth, and have the freedom to live without fear, discrimination, or systemic exclusion.

How you can support We ask Canadian media and the public to help by: • Sharing our petition on your platforms • Covering our story to help spread awareness • Joining the demonstration or inviting us for interviews, panels, or podcasts • Standing with us to push for real legislative change in Canada Media contact Vanessa St. Louis Spokesperson, Black People United for Change blackpeopleunitedforchange@gmail.com www.blackpeopleunitedforchange.ca Federal Petition Link: https://www.ourcomm ons .c a /p e titions/en / Pe tition / Details?Petition=e-6484

Elon Musk vs. The Billionaire Boys Club: Financial patriot or useful idiot?

STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC COLUMNIST

A multi-billionaire, internationally renowned, and once a crucial part of the “Re-elect Trump” campaign, Elon Musk surprisingly found himself in one of the most hated positions in American politics, Head of DOGE, the Department of Government Expenditure. Now, Musk is taking aim at his former allies, calling out the President and his inner circle for adding another $3.5 billion in pork-filled legislation to an already crushing national debt.

Elon Musk is, first and foremost, a businessman, a thoughtful opportunist.

He sees the writing on the wall: America’s economy is teetering. A staggering $350 billion in federal debt looms like a storm cloud, threatening to collapse the very foundation of the country. Musk acted. He offered his services, because what does a capitalist do best? Cut the fat. Trim the budget. Slash payroll when necessary, and that’s exactly what he did.

Why would he even bother? Was it personal gain? A panic about his own portfolio? Possibly. After all, most wealthy individuals profit during downturns, scooping up stocks at fire-sale prices, but I don’t think that’s the whole story. No, this time, Musk gave a damn about the little people, a rare thing in billionaire circles.

He’s pissed. Not out of jealousy, but from betrayal. His former White House “gang bangers” are cooking the books, lining their own pockets like pigs at a trough, and it’s

not just about them. When the federal government’s debt collapses, every state legislature (already drowning in domestic debt) goes down with it. These debts carry suffocating interest payments that rival those of struggling Latin American nations.

The fallout? Massive tax hikes.

Across the board. For regular citizens. People who can’t afford it. People who are already struggling to pay off their mortgages and credit cards. According to recent data, 31% of Americans can’t make full payments.

In some states, up to 38% dodge local taxes or defer them for years.

So, what do the rich do? They bounce. The semi-rich? They vanish too.

Off to Europe. Asia. Russia. Anywhere, but home.

Maybe, just maybe, Elon Musk actually cares about his children, and yours. Maybe he saw a simple task: cut spending, reorganize jobs, hold people accountable. So, he took the scalpel to the bloated federal system. That

move, unforgivable to the old guard. The knife in his back proves how much his message scared them.

That message? “If America continues down this path, it does so at its own peril. The alternative? Sacrifice. Budget. Change foreign policy. Stop feeding the Pentagon and global strongmen like Netanyahu.”

It’s a wake-up call. Even Musk (who has burned himself before with poorly thought-out corporate purchases) has learned to pause and think. Maybe it’s time we all did. Before we swipe that card. Before we buy that house. Before we believe the hype.

In the middle of economic chaos, Elon Musk stepped up. He tried to help, and in return? Betrayed by Trump and the billionaire boys’ club. Left hanging while they laughed all the way to the Cayman Islands.

So, the real question: Is Elon Musk just a useful idiot, or the financial patriot America didn’t know it needed?

PAGE 12

NEWS & VIEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Exposed: FDA approved untested drugs for decades, and we paid the price MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

After a two-year investigation, investigative journalism group “The Lever” has uncovered shocking revelations: the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been approving untested drugs for public use for decades, with little to no oversight.

The FDA regulates approximately $3.9 trillion worth of products each year, including: medications, food, supplements, tobacco, and medical devices.

Behind its authoritative facade lies a troubling pattern. The investigation revealed that numerous drugs have remained on the market despite overwhelming evidence that they either

don’t work or cause severe harm.

Most alarming? Between 2013 and 2022, 73% of FDA-approved drugs failed to meet the agency’s own four foundational standards for efficacy.

Fifty-five drugs met only one standard, and 39 met none. Cancer treatments were the worst offenders: only 2.4% of 123 cancer drugs met all four criteria. Astonishingly, 81% were approved based solely on preliminary data.

“These statistics come after billions of dollars and years of lobbying by the pharmaceutical industry and patient advocacy groups pressuring Congress to loosen the FDA’s scientific standards,” The Lever reported. `Over time, a shift occurred; from requiring that drugs work before approval to letting companies “prove” efficacy after drugs hit the market, if at all. Few doctors, or members of the public are even aware of this shift.

“Insurers and taxpayers effectively pay for research after drugs hit the market,” The Lever wrote. “Patients

serve as the unwitting guinea pigs with very real consequences.”

An estimated 130,000 people die annually from side effects of drugs that never should have made it past regulatory approval. Up until the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, the FDA maintained stricter guidelines. Once Big Pharmabacked activists pushed for faster drug access, guardrails began to crumble. By 1992, the Prescription Drug User Fee Act was passed allowing companies to bypass proven clinical outcomes and fast-track approvals.

Political donations surged: pharmaceutical contributions to political campaigns jumped from $1.9 million in 1990 to $3.6 million in 1992.

One glaring example is the FDA’s 2008 accelerated approval of Avastin, a drug made by Genentech and marketed by Roche for metastatic breast cancer. Despite eventually netting $6.8 billion by 2010, five subsequent clinical trials showed no measurable patient benefit, and worse, linked

the drug to blood clots, intestinal perforations, stroke, heart failure, and kidney damage.

When the FDA finally revoked its approval in 2011, drugmakers responded with aggressive backlash, harassing both the agency and its patients. Since then, the FDA has been hesitant to revoke drug approvals, even when data demands it.

Sound familiar? The aggressive push during COVID-19 echoes the same tactics, with critics of pharmaceutical products silenced, or attacked.

If you’ve been connecting the dots, one truth becomes painfully clear: not much has changed. As The Lever concluded, “The FDA continues to approve medicines based on evidence as flimsy, contradictory, and inadequate.” Experts warn the agency has nearly abandoned its commitment to rigorous science, all in the name of “flexibility” and “faster drug development.”

Why are we ignoring the silent crisis facing our men?

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

As the world marked International Men’s Health Week from June 10th to 15th, the question we must ask ourselves in Afro and Indo-Caribbean communities is this; how much longer can we afford to ignore the preventable health crisis quietly taking the lives of our men?

Men die, on average, five to six years earlier than women, and many of those deaths come from preventable causes such as: heart disease, cancer, and suicide. Yet, funding, policy, and media attention rarely reflect the urgency of this disparity. From Canada to Trinidad, Australia to the UK, countries are stepping up with community barbecues, digital workshops, and national campaigns, efforts designed to bring visibility and connection to men’s

health. Still, in communities like ours, silence and stigma often remain the loudest barriers to progress.

Health is often framed as a women’s issue; men are expected to be providers, not patients. In many Caribbean households, the expectation is clear: do not complain, do not cry, and do not ask for help. These unspoken rules cost lives.

A 2023 study by the Centre for Social Justice titled Lost Boys reveals troubling patterns: boys are falling behind in school, facing higher rates of school exclusion, and later, unemployment and incarceration. By adulthood, these disadvantages spiral into worsening health outcomes, substance abuse, and loneliness. When men suffer in silence, families suffer with them.

This year, the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation launched the #NeverAlone campaign to fight back against the epidemic of male social isolation and untreated mental illness. Men are encouraged to join virtual mental fitness workshops and access free digital resources, tools designed to help them talk before they break. These programs are critical, yet they remain vastly underfunded, particularly in culturally

diverse communities where mental health support must be culturally attuned.

As African and Caribbean Canadians, we must ask; are our men being reached? Are our doctors trained to engage them? Are our barbershops, churches, and community centers doing more than just offering a handshake and a smile?

Across the globe, coordinated action is building. In Ireland, the theme “Shoulder-to-Shoulder: Connecting for Health” calls for collective responsibility. In Germany, men are gathering in “Men’s Sheds” community-based spaces for peer support and mental wellness. The Men’s Health Forum UK is pushing for systemic reform, demanding that men’s health be woven into national health strategies.

These international models prove that real change happens when men are not treated as disposable. Canada, and especially its immigrant and diasporic communities, must follow suit.

Contrary to outdated thinking, this is not a men-only issue. According to the U.S. Preventive Medicine Association, women should be deeply invested

in men’s health. When men live longer, healthier lives: families are stronger, children are better supported, and communities thrive. Women become catalysts for intergenerational wellness.

As one Caribbean health advocate noted: “We cannot talk about strong families and thriving communities if we continue to bury our men younger, in silence, and without systemic support.”

The International Council for Men and Boys is urging governments to lead with courage and compassion, to name the crisis and fund the solutions. Caribbean Canadians must take this one step further by ensuring culturally appropriate, trauma-informed care, delivered in spaces where men feel safe, not judged.

Barbershop-based health checkups. Fatherhood mentorship circles. Workplace wellness initiatives tailored for construction, factory, and gig workers. These are proven models waiting to be localized.

Caribbean culture has always prized strength, but true strength lies in vulnerability, in healing, and in showing up for ourselves.

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS & VIEWS

PAGE 13

Did you know that changes in medication use, or in physical activity can affect your likelihood of falling?

W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES TC HEALTH COLUMNIST

Everyone trips up now and again – sometimes figuratively, and inevitably with age, literally. Almost always, these mistakes can be avoided. Rushing is a risk factor. The wrong shoes are too, but did you know your personality may also affect your likelihood of a fall? Was this a factor in our recent father-daughter visit to the ER? Yes, it probably was, and how do we know?

Examining the data from longitudinal studies is like looking into a medical crystal ball.

If you follow people long enough, the truth has a way of revealing itself. By collecting large datasets in these studies, it’s pos-

sible to analyze detailed information on the group’s: health, behaviours, environments, and medical histories. This allows the identification of patterns and correlations. We can, for example, see how changes in medication use, or in physical activity can affect the likelihood of falling.

In Canada, researchers examining the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging found more surprising risk factors for falling among people over the age of 65. Ironically, cessation of smoking and a decrease in alcohol consumption were both predictors of increased fall risk. You read that right – increased risk! We add, the risks of smoking at any age far outweigh the potential benefit of relaxing with a cigarette and avoiding a fall.

Nevertheless, we are pleased to see the findings related to alcohol. It underscores our position that, in moderation, an alcoholic beverage can be an effective way to relax the arteries, and perhaps this research suggests the practice also upholds a familiar evening routine that reduces risk of falls. One can’t draw solid conclusions, but you know where we stand.

Now, here’s the personality part.

Researchers found that individual traits (like conscientiousness and openness) offered protection. Put simply, when people are made aware of fall prevention practices, like holding onto handrails and moderating pace, and are agreeable to adjusting, they reduce their risk of falling.

You may think it’s a trifling thing to bring in the cushions from an outdoor balcony when rain begins, but this, too, is a behaviour that deserves modification. It was a minor misstep and loss of balance that had one of us missing the cushions and landing on the floor instead. Luckily, this occasion only resulted in a gash to the hand.

Even a minor misstep can lead to dire consequences. In North America, between 20-30% of adults aged 65 and older fall each year. A 2021 report found 6,579 Canadians aged 65, or older died from falls, with mortality rates steeply rising after age 80, and men more than women. Hospitalizations from falls rose 47% from 2008 to 2019 and emergency department visits have been climbing since 2010. Researchers calculated that in the U.S., falls cost patients, insurance companies and the economy nearly $80 billion each year. Those are expensive

missteps!

Yet old-fashioned remedies are cheap. Here are the most common recommended steps to staying upright: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Stay active: do daily balance and legstrengthening exercises.

Review medications: polypharmacy, sedatives, and blood‑pressure drugs can cause trouble.

Fix your living space: grab bars, railings, non‑slip mats, well-lit walkways.

Footwear matters: wear shoes with firm soles and good traction.

Vision check: keep eyeglass prescriptions current and avoid bifocals when walking.

Use assistive devices: canes and walkers are signs of smarts, not weakness.

Stay social: isolation increases risk.

Now, add one more, your personality. If you are the type that rushes for balcony cushions before the rain starts, rethink it and let them get wet. Changing your behaviour might save you a gash on the hand, a broken hip, or worse.

The ER Crisis: Canadians left waiting as emergency rooms collapse under pressure MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

A new MEI (Montreal Economic Institute) report reveals that Canadians are waiting longer than ever to receive care in emergency departments. The findings highlight a troubling trend: a healthcare system slowly buckling under the weight of inaction, inefficiency, and perhaps intentionally poor design.

The Montreal Economic Institute is an independent public policy think tank with offices in Montreal and Calgary. Through research, media engagement, and advisory services, the MEI stimulates public policy reform based on economics, entrepreneurship, and common sense.

“These long wait times represent real Canadians who face delays in receiv-

ing critical care that cause needless pain or distress,” said Krystle Wittevrongel, MEI’s director of research and a contributor to the report. “In all the provinces, wait times are worse today than they were five years ago, a clear sign that our healthcare systems are struggling to provide timely access to care.”

The report measured emergency department length of stay, from arrival to discharge, or admission to another department. The results are sobering.

Across the country, median ER stays ranged from two hours and 45 minutes in Newfoundland and Labrador to five hours and 23 minutes in Quebec. Notably, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia had not released their data at the time of publication.

In Ontario, the longest median ER stays were recorded in: • East Health Region: Four hours and 44 minutes • Northeast Health Region: Four hours and 14 minutes • Toronto Health Region: Four hours and 13 minutes The most staggering figure? Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, which

posted a median ER stay of eight hours and 13 minutes, the longest in the province. Following close behind were: • Ottawa Hospital’s General Campus: Seven hours and 34 minutes • Hôpital Montfort, Ottawa: Seven hours and 23 minutes Bottom line: since 2020, Canadians have been spending significantly more time waiting in emergency rooms, and the trend is only getting worse.

Wittevrongel offered a stark comparison: “Having to spend long hours waiting in an emergency room may be the norm in Ontario, but in other developed countries, it isn’t,” she said. “It’s clear that solving the issue of long wait times requires looking at best practices from abroad, such as Europe’s mixed systems, to finally give patients the timely access they deserve.”

One such example is France’s Immediate Medical Care Centres; independently operated, but universally accessible clinics designed to treat less serious emergencies. These centres alleviate pressure on hospitals, which can then focus on urgent, life-threatening cases.

So how did Canada (a country once

revered for its healthcare) get here?

The answer might lie in what some are calling “The Great Reset.” Over the past few years, Canadians grew comfortable working from home and even seeing doctors over Zoom. What felt like convenience at first may have been something else entirely.

We were being groomed to accept what amounts to foolishness, packaged as innovation, and while we were adjusting to this “new normal,” the foundation of our healthcare system was slowly being stripped down.

This isn’t poor planning. It feels deliberate.

If one day we wake up and find that emergency rooms have gone completely virtual, would we even be surprised? Not much seems to be happening by chance anymore.

The idea that you can address a medical emergency through a screen is absurd, and yet, here we are; watching the system crack while officials cheer on digital “efficiencies” that benefit no one but budget sheets.

Just remember; an emergency is something that can’t wait, and yet, here in Canada, it increasingly must.

Is Ontario for sale? The Bills that could hand our province to foreign corporate giants STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC COLUMNIST

The Ontario government’s answer to rising U.S. tariffs and global market pressures has arrived: Bill 2 and Bill 5. Framed as economic saviours, these legislative moves aim to stimulate the provincial economy, but a closer look reveals potential consequences that disproportionately affect Ontario’s most vulnerable regions, and people.

Bills 2 and 5 are being marketed as a win for free trade and job creation, but when you peel back the buzzwords, a more troubling picture emerges. These bills effectively throw open Ontario’s doors to foreign corporations; American companies looking to dodge tariffs, Asian investors flush with capital, but lax on corporate ethics, and investment agents backed by opaque offshore interests.

While these may sound like viable economic allies, history tells us otherwise.

This flood of foreign interest risks turning Ontario into an open market free-for-all, with little oversight and fewer protections for communities, land, and labour.

So why are so many lobbyists, trade unions, and environmental advocates pushing back? The concern is rooted in the

government’s approach: treating any business as good business. Many Indigenous communities in Ontario’s North see this as the beginning of large-scale resource extraction by outsiders; corporations that arrive, harvest everything they can, and leave environmental degradation in their wake.

Bill 2, dressed up as a champion of interprovincial free trade, claims to protect Ontario growers, sellers, and retailers, but will it? For example, bringing in cases of wine from B.C. still faces regulatory hurdles.

The Wine Growers of Ontario are a powerful lobby Doug Ford is unlikely to challenge.

Other provinces continue to fiercely protect their industries, so this bill may be more political theatre than practical reform.

Bill 5, on the other hand, is a blunt instrument. Its focus is corporate profit-

ability and job creation, no matter the cost.

Expect the green light on more mining operations in the North, the fast-tracking of housing developments in environmentally protected areas, and the prioritization of cash flow over conservation. Its prosperity at any cost.

Local activists have been sounding the alarm. They argue that once marshlands, wildlife habitats, and waterways are lost to industrial expansion, they are gone for good. Many Ontarians fear cozy backroom deals between politicians and CEOs, deals that could drain our forests, mineral resources, and water systems, all in the name of economic growth.

The question we must ask ourselves: who is this growth really for?

PAGE 14

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Photo Credit: Moment2Remember

DR. LEO GILLING From Tenement Yard to Global Change Agent; The life and legacy of Dr. Leo Gilling Before he ever stepped onto a stage, or held the title “Doctor,” Leo Gilling was just a barefoot boy in Oracabessa, St. Mary: curious, determined, and full of dreams that seemed too big for the tenement yard he called home. Today, he’s an accomplished: author, educator, philanthropist, talk show host, and thought leader; one of the most respected voices in the Jamaican diaspora across the United States and Canada.

His memoir, From Shadows to Sunshine: My Jamaican Boyhood, offers a cultural blueprint stitched with proverbs, idioms, folk tales, and timeless Jamaican wisdom.

“This book is not just my story; it’s a celebration of resilience and community,” he writes. “May it inspire readers to embrace their journeys and discover sunshine even amidst the shadow.”

What a journey it has been.

After earning his Diploma in Education from Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College in 1982, Dr. Gilling never looked back. He moved to the United States, where he would go on to complete a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accountancy and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice; both from National University in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Most recently, he earned his Ph.D. in Criminology from Keiser University in Florida in 2024.

Dr. Gilling’s academic resume reads like a masterclass in perseverance

and reinvention. Beyond degrees, he holds certifications with Allstate as an insurance agent and is licensed in accident, health, life, and variable annuities. Education was always about empowerment. Since 2023, he’s served as an adjunct professor at both: the Jamaica Theological Seminary and Washington Adventist University, where he specializes in: curriculum development, innovative pedagogy, student mentorship, and research integration.

His scholarship is sharp and relevant. In 2021, he published the analytical paper, White Police Officers’ Use of Force on Black Citizens Versus Black Police Officers’ Use of Force on Black Citizens, tackling urgent conversations about: race, power, and policing. His work also appears across platforms like Issuu and Medium, where he offers strategies for building Diaspora Playbooks, detailed models for global engagement and policy change.

Dr. Gilling’s life extends far beyond academia…

A man of deep service, he has sat on the boards of numerous philanthropic organizations including the Partners For Youth Foundation, the Broward Alliance of Caribbean Educators, and the Issa Trust Foundation. He has served in advisory roles for the City of Miramar’s Parks & Recreation department, the Jamaica Diaspora Movement, and the Jamai-

ca Diaspora Education Task Force.

He is the founder of the Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College Past Students’ Association (2004), the Jamaica Diaspora Education Task Force (2013), the Jamaica Diaspora Task Force Action Network (2019), and the Celebrate Awareness Association of California (CILA).

His leadership is often described as visionary and transformational. Gauree Patel, Associate Director of Partnership at the NYC Campaign Finance Board and former colleague at the Clinton Foundation, praised him publicly: “Leo’s accomplishments in coordinating and driving large-scale social change is a testament to his charismatic, authentic, and inclusive leadership style... The network building model developed by Leo served as a template for the Clinton Global Initiative in the Caribbean region.”

In 2025, Dr. Gilling entered another golden era.

His memoir launched on April 2nd, 2025, at Excelsior Community College in Kingston, April 3rd, 2025, at Ritual Restaurant, and April 4th, 2023, at Oracabessa High School.

The Canadian launches were equally memorable: April 19th, 2025, at the Knowledge Bookstore in Brampton and April 23rd, 2025, at the Jamaican Consulate in Toronto.

His personal life? Equally radiant.

He recently celebrated his daughter’s graduation from Johns Hopkins University, where she earned her doctorate in nursing practice; a proud, generational full-circle moment. Then, on May 15th, 2025, he married Adaoma Patterson (now Adaoma Gilling) in a heartfelt ceremony in Jamaica. He shared his joy with the world via Facebook: “I wasn’t searching. I wasn’t looking. I just bumped into her, and I realized I liked her the way I always wanted to enjoy a meaningful relationship.

Now I feel an inner peace I didn’t know I yearned for.”

When asked about what drives him, Dr. Gilling doesn’t rattle off accolades or degrees. Instead, he leans into legacy, “True confidence is forged when you unapologetically embrace every thread of your story: your heritage, your hardships, your humble beginnings, and even the raw edges of your childhood.”

That’s what makes him a Classic Man. The humility, the roots, Photo Credit: Sanjcommitment P Photography and the unwavering to elevate others.

Written by Paul Junor Toronto Caribbean News

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HEALTH

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 23

Study after study confirms that higher levels of education correlate with better health outcomes W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES COMMON SENSE HEALTH

This past week, we found ourselves in Rome – one of us in person, the other traveling vicariously on video connections. The intent was not to study ancient ruins, but to witness something much more modern and, dare we daresay, more vital: a graduation ceremony.

The event was brimming with the exuberance of youth, the blossoming of intellectual vitality, and the naivete of ambition. These students, many of them undeniably privileged, are set to begin lives marked by education, opportunity, and health. Their beaming faces were an exhibi-

tion of a powerful truth that two great predictors of a long and healthy life are youth and education.

Youth is a kind of medicine in itself.

Your body repairs more quickly. Your arteries are flexible, your immune system resilient, and your risk of chronic illness low. Aging, on the other hand, is not a disease, but it is the single greatest risk factor for nearly every chronic condition: heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and dementia among them.

While we can’t turn back the clock, we can better prepare for the realities of aging.

If youth is a fleeting asset, education is a lasting one. Study after study confirms that higher levels of education correlate with better health outcomes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that adults without a high school diploma are three times more likely to die before age 65 than those with a college degree. Education leads to higher income, healthier environments, and greater health literacy. These in turn shape behaviours around nutrition, exercise, and preventive care. The result? A longer, healthier

life.

Contrast this with poverty; perhaps the most reliable harbinger of poor health next to old age. Poverty limits access to nutritious food, stable housing, and quality healthcare. It increases stress and reduces the ability to make long-term plans, including those for health. In short, poverty is a chronic condition all its own.

The CDC recently released new data on obesity rates by U.S. state. The numbers are alarming. In states with low levels of educational attainment and high poverty rates such as: Mississippi, West Virginia and Arkansas, adult obesity rates exceed 40%. Obesity, of course, is closely linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. It’s no coincidence that these states also see some of the nation’s highest rates of diabetes. Adults with less than a high school education are more likely to have diabetes (19.6%) compared to people with a bachelor’s degree (10.7%).

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should not come as news. Back in 1877, the British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, said, “The health of the people is really the foundation upon which all their happiness and all their powers as a state depend.”

At the Rome ceremony, the students were not just receiving diplomas, they were receiving life’s most effective vaccine. Not against any virus, but against ignorance, instability, and, yes, illness. They will likely live longer, healthier lives than many of their counterparts who never had the chance to walk across a graduation stage.

We can’t rewind the clock on age, but we can invest in education at all levels, for all people. We can build systems that promote learning and lift people out of poverty. By doing so, we can change the health trajectory of life for individuals and for society.

That so little is being done to address this problem is a terrible shame. We are bankrupting ourselves when we could be buying more healthy and productive time.

FOOD

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 25

A Sunday Table: Caribbean-Infused Roast Beef with Roots, Rum and Reverence Some meals don’t just feed a belly — they anchor a family, close a week, and start conversations that meander from memories to tomorrow’s plans. Roast beef is one of those meals in many Canadian and British homes — the pride of Sunday dinners, the reason for a midday nap, the excuse to break out the good plates. But here’s the thing: for Caribbean households, beef roasts aren’t exactly front-and-centre fare. We lean harder on goat, oxtail, or a proper stewed chicken.

Yet, when beef does show up, you can be sure it’s going to carry the soul of the islands on its shoulders — fiery spices, fresh herbs, and a depth of flavour that’s a nod to how we bend colonial classics to our own taste.

So, today, let’s build that bridge: a big, tender roast beef, kissed with garlic, scotch bonnet heat, fresh thyme, and the quiet sweetness of Caribbean rum.

Served alongside roasted root veg, coconut rice and peas, and a gravy so good you’ll question why you ever put up with those dry lumps from a packet.

Sit tight — you’re about to see how a humble beef roast takes a vacation to the West Indies and comes back more interesting for it.

A Brief Word on Beef — and the Islands Historically, beef wasn’t the everyday meat of the Caribbean working class. It was costly. Cows were for milk or colonial plantations; goats, pigs, and chickens did the heavy lifting on local plates. But when beef was cooked, it was done with respect and intention — salted down, stewed, or curried until tender, stretching every scrap. Sunday roasts — if they happened — were luxury moments for families doing a little better than scraping by.

As trade routes expanded and Caribbean ports buzzed with barrels of rum, sugar, and spices, island cooks grabbed inspiration from British, French, Spanish, and Dutch tables — then made it our own. We spiked the marinades with rum, balanced savoury with sweet, and gave everything a fresh kick of local herbs and peppers. That’s the spirit you’ll taste here: a colonial cut, cooked in a rebellious Caribbean fashion.

The Cut — And Why It Matters For this roast, don’t reach for the cheapest piece you see. A proper Caribbean-infused roast beef needs marbling but not too much sinew. Go for a top sirloin roast, rump roast, or eye of round if you’re on a budget but can manage a

longer cook. If you’re feeling fancy, a rib roast is excellent — but do it justice with proper seasoning.

Good beef, well-seasoned, cooked slow and rested well — that’s the trifecta. Everything else is garnish.

Let’s Talk Marinade — It’s Not Optional Here’s the backbone of this entire meal: the marinade is where the island shows up. It’s a mashup of green seasoning (the Caribbean’s answer to pesto or chimichurri), a splash of dark rum, a blast of garlic, and a whisper of scotch bonnet.

Classic Caribbean Green Seasoning: This is the unsung hero in so many island kitchens. It’s a blended paste of fresh herbs: thyme, parsley, celery leaves, green onions, garlic, ginger, sometimes cilantro. Every family has their version — but the goal is the same: big, bold, garden-fresh flavour that hugs meat, fish or veg before it hits the fire.

The Recipe Roast Beef

—

Caribbean-Infused

Ingredients For the marinade: • 1 large bunch fresh thyme • 1 bunch green onions (scallions) • 1 small bunch parsley or cilantro • 1 stalk celery, leaves and all • 6 cloves garlic • 1 thumb fresh ginger • 1–2 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste) • Juice of 1 lime • 3 tbsp dark Caribbean rum (like Appleton or Mount Gay) • 2 tbsp soy sauce (yes, it sneaks in — blame Chinese-Caribbean kitchens) • 1 tbsp brown sugar or cane sugar • 2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil • 1 tbsp all-purpose seasoning or a good Caribbean dry rub • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper • 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste For the roast: • 3–5 lb beef roast (top sirloin, rump, or rib roast) • Extra salt and black pepper • 1 large onion, sliced • 1–2 cups beef broth or water • 2 tbsp butter For the root veg: • 2 large carrots, cut chunky • 2–3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut • 1 small yam or dasheen (taro root),

• • •

optional but authentic 2 tbsp oil Salt and pepper Pinch of smoked paprika

How to Make It 1. Make the marinade: Wash your herbs properly. Rough chop everything, then toss it all into a blender or food processor. Add rum, lime juice, oil, soy sauce, sugar, and blend into a thick paste. Taste it — adjust salt and pepper. It should taste bold, herbaceous, and a little fiery.

2. Prep the beef: Pat the roast dry. Stab it a few times with a small knife and stuff a little marinade right into the cuts — old island trick for flavour all the way in. Rub the rest all over the meat, wrap it up in plastic or put in a resealable bag, and marinate at least 4 hours — overnight is even better.

3. Roast day: Bring the beef to room temp for about 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Place sliced onions at the bottom of a roasting pan — this acts like a flavour trivet and base for the gravy. Put the marinated beef on top. Pour about a cup of broth or water into the pan to keep things juicy.

Roast at high heat for 15–20 minutes to get a nice crust, then lower the heat to 325°F (165°C) and roast until it hits your desired doneness. For medium rare, you’re looking at about 20 minutes per pound — but always use a meat thermometer (135°F for medium rare, 145°F for medium).

4. Rest: Once done, pull it out, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest at least 15–20 minutes. This is non-negotiable — it keeps the juices where they belong.

5. Root veg: While the beef roasts, toss your cut root veg with oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Roast on a separate tray for about 40–50 minutes until golden and tender.

6. The gravy: Place the roasting pan on the stove over medium heat. Skim excess fat if you like, then mash the onions into the pan juices. Add a knob of butter and a splash more broth if needed. Simmer until slightly thick — strain if you want it smooth, but I love it rustic. Taste and season.

Classic Caribbean Sides — Because a

Roast is Lonely Alone Rice and Peas: No self-respecting Caribbean table does a roast without rice and peas somewhere in the spread. The peas aren’t really peas — they’re red kidney beans or pigeon peas. The rice is cooked in coconut milk with garlic, scallions, thyme, and a whole scotch bonnet floating on top. You don’t break the pepper; you just let it perfume the pot.

Simple Green Salad: Balance all that rich roast and gravy with a crisp salad: lettuce, sliced cucumber, tomatoes, maybe a few orange segments and a quick lime vinaigrette. Nothing fancy — just freshness.

Fried Plantains: If you want to really spoil folks, fry up some ripe plantains — soft, sweet, caramelized. They’re the final touch of sweetness that makes the plate sing.

How to Serve — With Love and Noise Bring that roast beef to the table whole.

Let folks see the crust, the charred edges, the proof that you didn’t cut corners.

Carve it thick or thin, pile it beside coconut rice, nestle in a few roasted carrots and sweet potatoes, drown it in that gravy, and scatter a couple fried plantains on the side for good measure.

Pour everyone a splash of rum or a cold ginger beer. Put on some old reggae or calypso. Let the meal drag on too long. Let someone argue about whether Granny’s seasoning was spicier. Let the kids fight over the last piece of plantain.

That’s Sunday dinner — Caribbean style.

Final Thoughts — More Than Meat Food tells on people. It reveals where they came from, how they adapt, what they hold sacred. A Caribbean-infused roast beef is a perfect example — a colonial relic reimagined by people who knew how to stretch a dollar and double the flavour. It reminds us that we’re not just about jerk chicken or curry goat. We can take any classic, toss in a scotch bonnet, a splash of rum, and some thyme, and suddenly it’s ours.

So, the next time you crave a Sunday roast, skip the bland salt and pepper rub. Reach for the fresh herbs, the rum bottle, the pepper you respect but secretly fear — and taste how the Caribbean handles a beef roast.

Just don’t forget to nap after.

Some traditions shouldn’t change.

LIFE

PAGE 26

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

“No Means No!” How Afro and Indo-Caribbean women are fighting back against gender-based violence STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

INSIGHT TO SOCIETY

According to The Kenyan Star, women in Kenya and across several African nations are saying: enough is enough.

They’re fed up with the sexual abuse and violence they face from spouses, friends, and even employers. For too long, male expectations have assumed that women will surrender to unwanted advances, but that myth is crumbling thanks to the tireless efforts of women who are learning to fight back.

Across the continent, and globally, women are empowering themselves through: • • • •

Kickboxing Athletics and self-defense training Education on predator behaviors and evasion tactics Targeted training on where and how to disable a threat if evasion fails

In the United States, firearm training among women is rising sharply. Around the world, female enrollment in self-defense courses is at an all-time high.

Yes, men; women are now armed with the knowledge to protect themselves, and some are armed in more literal ways, too. Look out.

In North America, women are walking their dogs at night, pepper spray in hand. Some carry other defensive tools. Why? They have realized something crucial: in the first moments of a threat, they are alone, and being prepared is the only way to increase their chances of survival.

As Nancy Reagan famously said during the War on Drugs: “Just say no!”

Today, that message echoes in a new context. Women are saying: “No means no.”

Imagine the inner dialogue of today’s woman: Am I safe in my own home? What do I do when the threat wears the face of someone I love? How do I protect myself in a world that still questions the intentions of the assaulted, while showing leniency to the aggressor?

It’s no wonder we see a global rise in what some are calling “Bobbitt outrage” (a reference to the 1993 case of Lorena Bobbitt, who retaliated

after years of abuse). The point isn’t to glorify violence, but to send a message: women have the right to choose their partners, to say no, and to defend themselves without shame.

Cultural norms are shifting. So too are the desires, needs, and ambitions of global womanhood.

Interestingly, some men are also stepping up. In parts of Africa, men are getting circumcised, not only as an HIV prevention measure, but also as a gesture of respect for their partners. Others are enrolling in respectbased justice training, acknowledging the need for cultural evolution in how women are treated.

To these men, we say: Wake up and smell the roses, especially the ones you claim to cherish. Women are not beneath you. They are your equals: at home, in your communities, and on the world stage.

While criminal acts like sexual assault continue to rise, law enforcement agencies are proving increasingly ill-equipped to handle the sheer magnitude of these crimes. All too often, aggressors are met with empathy, while survivors are doubted, silenced, or blamed.

So, women are rising as defenders. Vigilantes, some might say, and they are ready.

When it comes to mental wellness, it can be difficult to know what to say or do!

BY GEORGE SHEPPARD The journey through mental health challenges is one that often feels isolating, misunderstood, and deeply personal. It is a path where words often fail, and emotions defy description. The weight of an invisible burden becomes a constant companion, leaving those affected grasping for ways to communicate their pain and longing for connection. Yet, amidst the struggles, there lies a quiet resilience, a flicker of hope that refuses to be extinguished even in the darkest moments.

During a particularly difficult time, someone desperate to help said to me, “Tell me how you feel.” We’ve all heard the phrase, “A penny for your

thoughts,” but there isn’t enough currency in the world to explain what I was feeling. That’s one of the most frustrating parts; trying to express something so complex and internal to others, or worse, pretending everything is fine.

That act, the mask, doesn’t last. Eventually, it caught up with me. Later, I read about how the late Robin Williams battled depression. He once told a friend it was like “Walking around with your hair on fire, but no one could see the flames.” I understood that completely.

The most frustrating thing for me has been trying to shed light on how I feel so others will understand. It is not easy to explain, nor to understand.

However, on several occasions I have been told things like: “You need to snap

out of it,” “Shake it off,” “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Though perhaps intended as encouragement, those words only deepened my sense of isolation. They made me feel as if I had chosen this, as if I had decided not to function. In truth, they set me back.

We all have people in our lives that need support from time to time.

When it comes to mental wellness, it can be difficult to know what to say or do. There is no recipe, no quick fix, no magic formula, and certainly no “better” that appears overnight.

For as long as I can remember, I have cared deeply about how others perceive me, but over time, I’ve learned that how I see myself matters even more. Coping and healing look differ-

ent for everyone. For some, it might be reading, biking, walking, running, kayaking, sitting on a beach, listening to birdsong, or the rush of water. Always, for some, the companionship of our furry canine and feline friends is a mainstay. It might be a combination of these things, or something else entirely. The wonderful thing is you get to choose what constitutes your new normal.

When people say they don’t know what to say to help someone going through a hard time, the best advice I can give is this: just be there. Let them know you care. They are not looking to be fixed (trust me) they’re already doing the hard work.

LIFE

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 27

Why do we fear correction, and what is it costing us?

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

Let me ask you a question: When was the last time someone gave you honest, hard-to-hear feedback and you welcomed it? Not tolerated it. Not nodded and went silent, but truly received it?

If you can’t remember, you’re not alone. In our community, feedback is often mistaken for disrespect. Critique sounds like judgment. Correction feels like shame. Why is that? Where does that come from, and what are we missing when we push it away?

I believe part of the answer lies deep in our historical DNA. Afro and Indo-Caribbean people have inherited generations of social survival. We have had to fight to be seen, to be heard, to be taken seriously. For many of us, especially the children of immigrants, or the descendants of enslaved peoples, the idea of being “wrong” or “called out” triggers discomfort. It triggers a sense of failure. It makes us feel exposed. Vulnerable. Small.

So, we reject the criticism. We shut down. We deflect. We defend, and in doing so, we shut the door to growth.

Let me be clear; there is a difference between destructive criticism and loving, intentional correction.

What I am speaking about is the kind of feedback that comes from someone who wants to see you evolve. The type that highlights your blind spots so you can sharpen your strengths. This kind of feedback is gold, but only if you are strong enough to hear it.

Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and one of history’s most powerful Stoic philosophers, wrote about this. He said, essentially, “You may not control what people say, or how they say it, but you control how you receive it.” Here is the kicker; refusing to take correction, because of how it was delivered is still choosing to remain in error.

Let that sink in.

What would happen if we flipped the script? If we started to see correction as care? What if, instead of taking it personally, we took it seriously?

Ask yourself: • How many blessings have I blocked by not wanting to hear the truth?

• How many opportunities did I miss, because someone tried to help me, and I thought they were hating?

• How many times have I stayed stuck in the same cycle because I didn’t want to look at my own part in the problem?

Growth is uncomfortable. Change is messy, and self-awareness? That takes courage, but the price of avoiding those things is far greater than the sting of a little critique.

If we truly want to build generational wealth, heal trauma, strengthen our relationships, and break cycles we must normalize accountability. We must learn to hold space for tough conversations. That starts at home. With our children. With our elders. With ourselves.

So, I invite you, no, I challenge you to try something this week. When

someone offers you corrections, pause.

Don’t interrupt. Don’t defend. Just breathe. Ask yourself; Is there any truth in what they’re saying? Can I use this to become better?

If the answer is yes, even just a little, then take it. Apply it. Grow from it, because remaining in error out of pride is ego, and ego will always cost us more than humility ever will.

We can do better. We must do better. Not just for ourselves, but for every generation watching us. Are you ready?

LIFE

PAGE 28

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Introverts and extroverts: The myth of the “ideal personality” and its cognitive fallacies DANIEL COLE

daniel@carib101.com

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Personality is one of the most foundational aspects of our lives, the architecture of our core values. It shapes our: relationships, interests, career trajectories, intellectual pursuits, and more. Over time, culture and social stereotypes have relentlessly elevated the extroverted ideal (gregarious, assertive, charismatic) while marginalizing the quiet powerhouses among us: introverts.

Susan Cain, in her seminal work “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking,” outlines how the 20th century saw the rise of what she calls the “Extrovert Ideal” a cultural shift from a “culture of character” (valuing integrity and depth) to a “culture of personality” (valuing charisma and showmanship). Under this paradigm, individuals who thrive in solitude and process life internally are often pathologized, misunderstood as: shy, aloof,

socially inept, or even antisocial.

In the social media age, this dynamic has reached a fever pitch. The loudest voices dominate feeds, while nuanced, quiet thinkers are often drowned out by the algorithm. Popularity masquerades as credibility, and the speed of speech is frequently mistaken for the depth of thought.

Research continues to show that talkativeness is not correlated with intelligence, originality, or empathy. In fact, some of the most transformative ideas in history have been birthed not in boardrooms, or brainstorming sessions but in solitude: in quiet rooms, on long walks, and during silent nights.

The introvert-extrovert spectrum has been a cornerstone of personality psychology since Carl Jung introduced the concept in 1921. While extroverts derive energy from external stimulation and social interaction, introverts recharge through reflection and solitary engagement.

Introversion is not monolithic. It encompasses a diverse range of traits and behaviours, including: • •

A preference for depth over breadth in relationships and ideas High sensitivity to sensory and emotional stimuli

• • •

A tendency toward meaningful conversation over casual small talk A capacity for deep focus, often leading to creative or intellectual breakthroughs Self-awareness and introspection— the psychological bedrock of wisdom and emotional intelligence

The duality of personality, if understood and embraced, can lead to a more inclusive and dynamic society. Extroverts and those with outgoing personalities are not always right; neither are quiet, introverted individuals necessarily wise. However, when charisma and performative confidence are rewarded over deep, critical, and analytical thinking, this bias results in the gradual, systemic marginalization of introverts’ abilities. Rosa Parks did not have Martin Luther King Jr.’s personality, yet both led a revolution in their own unique ways.

From a neurobiological standpoint, introverts and extroverts process stimuli differently. Introverts tend to have a more sensitive dopamine system, meaning they require less external stimulation to feel rewarded. They also show increased blood flow to the frontal cortex, the region responsible for: deep thinking, planning, and problem-solving. This makes them

uniquely suited to tasks demanding concentration, patience, and precision.

Such neurological differences don’t make one type better than the other—just different. Yet, our institutions, particularly education and corporate environments, are often optimized for extroverts: open-plan offices, group projects, and networking events alienate those who thrive in introspection.

True introversion is not a deficit, but a cognitive style one that prioritizes depth over breadth and reflection over reaction. Though introverts are frequently mislabeled as shy, antisocial, or disengaged, these stereotypes are far from the truth. Most people are not purely introverts or extroverts; they are ambiverts, a blend of both personalities.

To introverts, your superpower is your ability to manage your solitude.

The ability to connect to your inner self, to birth ideas and thoughts that will make our world a better place, not intimidated, not cowering, and not apologetic. In the age of digital noise and social amplification, staying true to your creative ability is your greatest asset. Be careful of energy exchange; choose your circle unapologetically.

Scaling and Expanding Your Business: You Have to Get Past the Fear to Grow

BY GRANT BROWNING DRIVEN TO SUCCEED I saw an image online the other day that stopped me dead in my scroll. It was a timelapse style post — first frame, a young man dreaming of owning a semi truck. Second frame, same guy, middle-aged, still dreaming. Third, he’s a senior, still dreaming. The last frame? A gravestone.

I remember sitting at an event once, listening to a speaker who said, “Many a man is buried with his dreams still inside him.” Truer words have never been spoken.

So many people — good people, talented people — sit frozen in the exact same spot year after year because fear of the unknown is stronger than their desire to grow. Fear of failure. Fear of what-ifs. Fear of judgement.

And that fear breeds complacency, and complacency breeds resentment.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve got a business. Or maybe a side hustle you wish you could scale up to something

bigger. Well, let me tell you the same truth I live by: growth will cost you comfort. There’s no skipping that toll booth.

One of the most valuable things I’ve learned over decades of working for myself is this: scaling isn’t a straight line. It’s a series of predictable breakpoints that feel like hitting a brick wall — over and over again — unless you know they’re coming and plan for them.

Grant Cardone and Brandon Dawson break it down beautifully: there are seven breakpoints every growing business hits on the climb from a kitchen table hustle to a $125 million powerhouse. Most people never get past the first one because they won’t stop doing everything themselves long enough to build a process others can follow.

At first, it’s all about figuring out what you’re selling and getting those first dollars in the door. Then you hit the next wall: you have to get serious about documenting how you do what you do so you can teach it to someone else. You cannot scale

chaos — period.

Next, you stop being the manager and start being the leader. You build a team culture that supports the vision — not just your to-do list. Then you automate the boring stuff so you can focus on building. Then you let other leaders lead. That step terrifies people because it means giving up a chunk of control — but if you don’t do it, you’ll stay stuck right where you are, forever babysitting your own bottlenecks.

Here’s the kicker: even with the perfect plan, you’ll still get knocked backwards sometimes. Growth feels messy because it is messy. But if you push through, there’s an entire new level of freedom waiting on the other side of each wall.

Now, the simplest framework I live by is this: Promote. Profit. Process. People.

First, shout from the rooftops. You have to promote relentlessly until people can’t forget you exist. Obscurity is your biggest enemy. Once you’re loud enough, the profit follows. Then you double down on

processes — write it all down. Build the manual, not just for you but for the people you’ll bring on board later. Because scaling is not a solo sport. Eventually, you plug in the right people to duplicate your results at a pace you alone could never match.

And before you ever worry about fancy branding or a shiny office, do the math.

As Cardone says, there are countless ways to a million dollars. Work backwards: how many customers, at what price, gets you there?

Then build the plan to hit that math.

Listen, you’re going to be scared.

Do it anyway. The guy dreaming about a semi truck never drove it because fear always won. Don’t be him. You’ve got something bigger in you than the “what-ifs” trying to hold you small.

Scale smart. Scale loud. Scale with purpose. And whatever you do — don’t take your dreams to the grave.

Influencer? No thanks! Why the internet’s newest trend is not wanting to be famous SYDNEE WALCOTT sydnee@carib101.com

VARIETY CORNER

A common narrative about fame is that those who have it appear to be living their best life. They are successful, doing something they love, have access to opportunities most can only dream of, and they are well known. However, while that may sound exciting, it comes at a cost.

Watching Queen Chioma’s YouTube

video on the anti-influencer era and why nobody cares to be famous anymore, is yet another reminder that not all that glitters is gold.

As we all know, social media’s original purpose was to give people a space to connect with family and friends and express their creativity. Over time, social media transformed into a platform where users could: earn money, collaborate with other digital personalities, land brand deals, and access opportunities far beyond the online space.

Throughout the latter half of the 2010s into the 2020s, we saw content featuring well-known influencers living seemingly perfect lives: luxurious homes, high-end cars, designer wardrobes, international vacations, flawless skincare routines, and professional photo shoots. Behind this polished

perfection lies the pressure to be constantly online, often at the expense of authenticity.

Speaking of authenticity, one major shift has been in endorsement transparency.

A growing number of people are becoming more aware of what really goes on behind influencer deals. Within the anti-influencer movement, honesty is now the focal point.

Content creators are more candid about their partnerships, helping their audiences understand what’s truly being promoted.

Viewers, in turn, are gravitating toward relatable, genuine experiences instead of staged, aesthetically curated moments.

Maintaining a perfect online image takes a toll on mental health and overall wellbeing. Continuously putting up a front does more harm than good. It’s draining. That’s why many are embracing what’s known as soft privacy: posting less frequently, avoid-

ing oversharing, understanding that going viral isn’t necessary to be seen, and protecting parts of life that deserve to remain private.

Even social media platforms are taking note of this cultural shift, rolling out features that spotlight behind-the-scenes content and encouraging creators to share more authentically.

Yes, clout-chasers still exist, but this recent evolution in content creation brings a welcome sense of optimism. Authenticity is making its way back to the forefront, with less emphasis on the relentless pursuit of fame. While fame may still be tempting to some, more creators are discovering that producing genuine content (not chasing likes) is what truly resonates.

LIFE

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 29 Photo Credit: Binoid CBD

The fine art of the budtending in Toronto’s cannabis scene SEAN SEURATTAN sean@carib101.com

THE HEIGHTENED CHEF Toronto’s cannabis landscape has blossomed into a bustling marketplace, with dispensaries now a ubiquitous sight across the city. Yet, amidst the myriads of options, what truly sets a dispensary apart isn’t just its product selection or sleek aesthetics, but the calibre of its customer service representatives affectionately known as “budtenders.”

These frontline experts are educators, guides, and often, the primary reason a client returns. In a rapidly evolving industry, Toronto’s budtenders must embody a unique blend of knowledge, friendliness, engaging communication, and deductive reasoning to truly excel.

The days of simply pointing to a product on a shelf are long gone. Today’s cannabis consumer, whether a seasoned connoisseur, or a curious newcomer, expects a higher level of interaction. This demand places significant pressure on budtenders to possess an encyclopedic knowledge of cannabis. It goes beyond merely identifying Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid strains; it delves into understanding intricate cannabinoid profiles (THC, CBD, CBN, etc.), the nuanced world of terpenes and their entourage effects, various consumption methods (flower, edibles, concentrates, topicals, tinctures), and appropriate dosages for different experiences. A truly skilled budtender can articulate the subtle differences between a limonene-dominant strain and one rich in myrcene, explaining how these compounds might influence mood, energy, or relaxation.

However, knowledge alone is insufficient. The best budtenders are inherently friendly and approachable. Stepping into a dispensary, especially for first-time users, can be an intimidating experience. A warm welcome, a genuine smile, and an open demeanor immediately put clients at ease. This friendly approach fosters an environment where customers feel comfortable asking questions, no matter how basic, or complex.

It’s about breaking down barriers and creating a welcoming space where exploration and education are encouraged, not judged.

Beyond being friendly, an exceptional budtender is also highly engaging.

This means actively listening to the client’s needs and preferences, rather than simply reciting product descriptions. They ask probing questions: “What kind of experience are you hoping for today?” “Are you looking for

something for relaxation, creativity, or pain relief?” “What’s your prior experience with cannabis?” This interactive dialogue is crucial for understanding the client’s unique journey and guiding them towards the most suitable products. It’s a conversation, not a transaction.

This leads directly to the critical skill of deductive reasoning. With a vast and ever-expanding inventory, and a diverse clientele, budtenders must be able to quickly process information and make informed recommendations. If a client expresses interest in something to help with sleep but also has a low tolerance, a good budtender wouldn’t immediately recommend a high-THC Indica.

Instead, they might deduce that a CBDdominant strain, or a balanced THC/CBD product with a calming terpene profile would be a more appropriate starting point.

They consider the client’s expressed desires, their tolerance level, their lifestyle, and even their preferred consumption method to narrow down the vast options and provide a tailored solution. This problem-solving approach is what elevates a good budtender to a truly great one.

Furthermore, Toronto’s budtenders operate within a strictly regulated environment. They must be meticulously aware of legal purchase limits, age verification protocols, and responsible consumption guidelines. The ability to seamlessly integrate these regulatory requirements into a positive customer experience, without appearing like a know-it-all, is another testament to their skill.

The continuous evolution of the cannabis industry demands that budtenders remain perpetual learners. New products, research findings, and consumption trends emerge constantly. Top-tier budtenders are proactive in staying updated, often engaging in self-study, attending vendor training sessions, and sharing insights with their colleagues. This dedication to ongoing education ensures they can consistently provide the most current and accurate information to their clients.

In essence, Toronto’s budtenders are the unsung heroes of the city’s cannabis market.

They are the human touchpoint in a burgeoning industry, transforming what could be a purely transactional exchange into an educational and personalized experience.

Their knowledge, friendliness, engaging communication, and deductive abilities are essential pillars upon which successful dispensaries in Toronto are built, fostering customer loyalty and ensuring: safe, informed, and enjoyable cannabis consumption for all.

Stay tuned for a follow up to this article where I speak to budtenders across the city and get them to tell their experiences from their own perspectives!

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

REAL ESTATE

PAGE 31

The rise of smart real estate: How AI Is redefining the housing market JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the housing industry. Data, algorithms, and automation are enhancing real estate by reducing reliance on human intuition and market guesswork. Soon, every aspect of home buying, construction, and urban planning will evolve. The future of real estate is intelligent. Let’s explore the impact of AI in real estate.

Smarter property valuations: Real estate evaluation is complex, time-sensitive, subjective, and prone to human error. AI can analyze thousands of data points, including past sale prices, neighbourhood demographics, economic indicators, and even social media sentiments, providing accurate real-time property assessments that minimize pricing inaccuracies, reduce listing times, and empower buyers and sellers to make informed, data-driven decisions.

Predictive market trends: Consider the power you would possess if you could anticipate real estate market activity. By analyzing historical data and economic trends, AI can forecast where demand will increase, when prices might stabilize, and which types of properties are likely to excel. Anyone aiming to stay ahead of the curve would view this as a game-changer.

Streamlining the building process: AI is transforming how we build homes and

communities, making the construction process faster, safer, and more cost-effective. Here are a few examples of AI’s impact on construction: Design optimization: AI-powered design software can quickly create and improve building blueprints while balancing costs, energy efficiency, and space optimization.

Construction scheduling: Machine learning algorithms are capable of predicting delays (due to weather, supply chain issues, or labour shortages) and adjusting timelines to prevent costly setbacks.

Resource management: AI monitors material usage, reduces waste, ensures justin-time supply delivery, lowers costs, and lessens environmental impact.

Safety Monitoring: AI-driven sensors and video analytics assist in identifying safety hazards on-site in real-time, enhancing worker safety and lowering liability.

Construct homes more quickly and accurately, minimizing human errors: With AI, builders can deliver high-quality homes more affordably and with greater certainty regarding budgets and timelines. The influence of AI will lead to an increase in factory-built homes. Imagine inputting the blueprint into a computer and having most of the components manufactured in a factory and assembled on-site. This process will reduce the need for skilled construction workers, as you can program the machinery to adhere to building codes.

Personalized property searches: When I started selling homes, there were no computers, and the only way a buyer would know that a home was available was by looking at “for sale” signs. Buyers would

spend their weekends visiting open houses. Now, most buyers browse through listings instead of attending open houses.

With AI, we no longer need to scroll endlessly through listings. AI creates customized search experiences by learning a user’s preferences, such as price range, style, commute time, and even lifestyle needs, finding highly tailored matches. AI is like a real estate concierge that understands your taste better than you do.

Fairer lending practices: AI is also used to identify bias in mortgage lending, helping lenders adopt more equitable practices and ensuring that credit decisions are based on objective criteria rather than human assumptions.

Eliminate fraud: AI assists lenders in detecting and preventing fraud by crossreferencing job information, credit re-

ports, and other borrower data. It verifies employment through external databases, examines credit reports for anomalies, and identifies suspicious patterns such as false identities or inflated incomes. AI can confirm the legitimacy of borrower claims by accessing public records, social media, and even geolocation data. Furthermore, it offers real-time risk scoring and alerts for inconsistent or high-risk applications, enhancing accuracy, expediting approvals, and reducing fraud-related losses.

Streamlined transactions: AI will transform the closing process by automating paperwork, reviewing legal documents, and identifying contract risks. Real estate agents and lawyers encounter fewer errors, while clients benefit from faster, more seamless closings.

PAGE 32

FUN

YOUR HOROSCOPE for the week of June 15 – June 21, 2025

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

CROSSWORDS

ACROSS

PUZZLE NO. 133

THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: GEMINI, VIRGO, AQUARIUS

ARIES: You’re fired up — tackle old tasks and clear the path ahead. Not every fight needs your spark. Save your energy for what matters.

TAURUS: You crave comfort this week. Enjoy it, but don’t avoid a needed talk. Face it now, relax later.

GEMINI: You’re the go-between for others — keep it light and neutral. A bright idea midweek deserves a closer look.

CANCER: Your instincts are sharp, but don’t overthink them. Take time for you and let someone else handle the little things.

LEO: Speak up and clear the air — people trust your voice now.

Listen well and you’ll gain even more support.

VIRGO: You’re fixing what no one sees, but someone notices.

Celebrate your effort — a small treat is well deserved.

LIBRA: Keep the peace but don’t lose yourself trying. A last-minute plan could lift your spirits — go for it.

SCORPIO: A nagging doubt surfaces — don’t push it down. Dig in and by week’s end you’ll feel steady and clear.

SAGITTARIUS: You’re restless.

If you can’t travel, change your routine. A new view sparks fresh inspiration.

CAPRICORN: Feeling sentimental? Connect with old friends or family. By weekend, you’ll have a plan worth sticking to.

AQUARIUS: Curiosity runs wild — explore it. Share ideas and don’t worry about looking odd.

You’re onto something.

PISCES: Emotions run high — but you don’t have to fix everyone’s mess. Focus on small joys and your own calm.

PUZZLE NO. 843

HOW TO PLAY : Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started.

Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

1. Undergarment 5. Meaning 9. Tango need 12. Ponder, with “over” 13. Yodeling sound 14. Spat 15. Group 16. Sign gas 17. Skinny fish 18. Dwell 20. Mama’s spouse 22. Period 24. Rodeo rope 27. Student’s pad 31. Deaden 32. Wood-chopping tool 33. Radio receiver 35. Fish eggs 36. Heal 38. Method 40. Door sign 42. Household 43. To another place 45. Gaps 49. Rainbow’s shape 51. Sit for an artist

53. Area ____ 54. Guy’s date 55. Smooth, as clothes 56. Press 57. Have unpaid bills 58. Take out, as text 59. Quick look

DOWN

1. ____ of the moment 2. Only 3. Eye part 4. Small 5. Benevolent 6. Break the ____ 7. Mart 8. Of sound 9. Value deeply 10. Misery 11. Bird that gives a hoot 19. Liability 21. Frying utensil 23. August, e.g.

25. Haze 26. Follow orders 27. Designate 28. Yoked draft animals

29. Octopus’s arm 30. Coal oil 34. Sloped walkway 37. Morning drop 39. Tempest in a ____ 41. Speedy 44. Time past 46. Nucleus 47. “The River’s ____” 48. Leak 49. Previously 50. Green 52. “Do, re, mi, fa, ____ . . .”

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CACD’s Final Capstone Panel Advancing Equity Through Community and Academia Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2025 Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location: Virtual (Zoom) Join the Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development (CACD) for a powerful and timely virtual gathering—the Final Capstone Panel Discussion—on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

This dynamic event marks the culmination of two transformative anti-racism initiatives: Pathways to Change (MARP) and TARAH – Together Against Racism and Hate (ARAH). Over the past year, CACD has mobilized youth, educators, and community voices in bold conversations and capacity-building sessions aimed at dismantling systemic racism and hate. The initiatives have amplified the lived experiences of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities, centred on truth-telling, leadership, and collective healing.

This closing panel is not merely a look back—it’s a launchpad for bold, futurefocused action. Featuring leading voices from academia and education, the discussion will explore how institutions are responding to community-identified priorities through inclusive policies, decolonized curricula, and equity-centred leadership. Panellists will also share how grassroots wisdom is reshaping institutional commitments and inspiring systemic reform.

The evening also sets the tone for CACD’s IDPAD Excellence Gala on November 8, 2025—an inspiring celebration of Black excellence, culture, and legacy under the theme: Honouring Legacy, Celebrating Culture, Advancing Equity.

REGISTER NOW Visit: www.cacdcanada.org Email: info@cacdcanada.org | Tel: (905) 277-8455 Supported by Canadian Heritage – MARP & ARAH Grant Programmes

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$

Old Dutch Absolute Clean H.E. Summer Fresh Laundry Detergent 150 Loads 6L

2999 /EA

Frozen Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets 907g

2

$ 99 /EA

Guyanese White B.B. Shrimp

$ 59 /LB

9

$ 99 /LB

7

$ 99 /EA

Fried Breaded Shrimp

3

10/ $ 99

Frozen Mutton Leg

Boneless Beef Shank

3

$ 99

$ 59 /LB

Guyanese Spring Curass (Small)

1

5

/LB

1

St

E

Fried Sesame Ball

2

10/ $ 99 Boneless Chicken Breast

5

$ 99

/LB

Indian Carrots

$ 99

en

Cherry

$ 28 /LB

* Check price on store display tags in case of disrepancy due to printing error in the advertisement. FreshPro Foodmart reserves the right to limit quantities. No raincheck.

3

/LB

$ 88 /LB