Tough Times, January to February 2017

3.6 MB·English

by  Peel Poverty Action Group

EMAIL | [email protected]
Vol. 6 No. 1 / January-February, 2017
Peel police want YOU
BY AMRIK AHLUWALIA and priorities for the police service. The path to modernize Peel Regional Police proportionately. Following the leader-
I
t was a cold, snowy evening in Peel. Board is responsible for the police bud- to better meet the increasing expecta- ship demonstrated by the Peel Police
A friend of mine was driving home. get, assesses the performance of the tions of the community. One of the Board, the provincial government acted
He was being cautious.. Suddenly, he Chief of Police in accordance with the ways is through increased community quickly and drafted new legislation to
heard police sirens behind him. Police Services Act, and is the employer engagement. replace street checks. I am happy to
My friend pulled over. The offi- for the police service. The Board has repeatedly said to note that Police Chief Jennifer Evans
cer got out, walked up to the car and This current Board is committed to members of our community: This is and the Board worked collaboratively,
knocked on the window. The officer Peel Regional Police Service continuing YOUR police Board – and we will en- and Peel Police Service was the first
asked if my friend knew why he was to be a leader in its field. The Board has tertain all comments, positive or not so to implement the new regulations –
pulled over. “No,” he replied – he was a vision to modernize Police services in flattering, to truly understand commu- eight months before the target date of
quite sure he wasn’t speeding. The po- Peel. nity issues. January 1, 2017.
lice officer told him his license plate was I would focus on three themes of One of the first initiatives cham-
covered in snow and couldn’t be read. the Board’s vision: pioned by the Board was last year’s 2. DIVERSITY IN THE POLICE
My friend apologized and said he’ll resolution to suspend Street Checks – SERVICE
clear it off. The officer told him not to 1. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT also referred to as Carding. The Board We have a diverse community with a
worry about it – it was cold outside and When I was elected Chair of the Board heard from the community how this high proportion of visible minorities
he already had a hat and gloves on. The in early 2016, the Board embarked on a practice was affecting black males dis- – more than 60% of our community.
officer cleaned the plate and wished my Yet only 18% of our police service is
friend a safe evening as he drove away. Ahluwalia: 300 not out from minority groups, while only 19%
As the Chair of Peel Police Services of our officers are women. This gap in
Board – the civilian oversight of our po- diversity and gender equality is totally
licing, I love that story because it illus- Amrik Singh Ahluwalia is chair of Peel Police Services unacceptable. We have a problem, and
trates what makes the Peel Police Service Board. The Ontario government appointed him to we need to address it now.
one of the top police organizations in the Board in 2011, he was reappointed in 2014, The police service hires about
the country... It’s about our people. and Board members elected him chair in 2016. 100 new officers annually to meet the
The Regional Municipality of Peel He has worked in the oil patch – Shell Canada for growth of the Region and replace offi-
Police Services Board is the civilian 29 years, retiring as general manager. He has or- cers retiring or going to other occupa-
body governing Peel Regional Police. ganized youth camps, volunteers with Seva Food tions. This has happened with the full
The Board is responsible for providing Bank in Mississauga. He has degrees from Carleton support of Regional Council, which has
adequate and effective police services, (engineering) and McMaster (business manage- allowed the Police Services Board to
law enforcement and crime prevention ment). An item from student days: He set a record commit the financial resources to pro-
AMRIK AHLUWALIA
within the Region. in 1969 for the highest inter-university score – 300 vide the best equipment, best training
Chair of Peel Police
The Board determines, in consulta- not out. Not out? The game is cricket. and the best planning possible.
Services Board
tion with the Chief of Police, objectives See “Peel Police...”, page 8
Words from the Street 2
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Tough Tomes 4
The high cost of Law 6/7
White supremacy 5
The homeless riddle 9
150 years … and still going strong
2 Tough Times – January-February, 2017
WORDS FROM THE STREET
PEEL POVERTY
ACTION GROUP
Tough Times is published
T six times a year
he people who dine at soup kitchens may not have money, but they are
rich in ideas.
Peel Poverty Action Group (PPAG) Next issue: March-April, 2017
Deadline for ads and editorial:
is open to every individual and
Examine this take on Donald Trump while in his president-elect mode: February 1, 2017
organization in Peel Region that cares
“He’s doing the right thing with appointing a billionaire as Secretary of State,” All deadlines are the first day
about what poverty does to people. It
said a friendly diner at Knights Table in Brampton. of the preceding month:
provides a safe place where people who For the May-June, 2017 issue: April 1;
In the headlines was Rex Tillerson, chairman and chief executive officer of
July-August deadline: June 1;
are cash-poor and those who try to help
U.S. oil and gas corporation ExxonMobil. Sept.-Oct. deadline: August 1;
them are encouraged to speak out – and Nov.-Dec. deadline: October 1.
So why is he such a good pick?
Tough Times is part of that safe place. “He’s a business man who talks with world leaders all the time, doing business Phone [phone]
The Group’s mandate is to advocate for his company. They talk the same language.” Volunteer writers, reporters, artists,
cartoonists, photographers, are
for people in need and to educate the We should have Rex over for dinner. welcome at Tough Times.
public about poverty issues. Membership
Please email letters to:
is free. PPAG meets at 9:30 a.m. the
[email protected]
second Thursday of every month
Produced by:
(except July and August) alternately Peel Poverty Action Group (PPAG)
in Mississauga at the Newcomer
Editor: Edna Toth
Centre of Peel, 165 Dundas St. W., at
Associate Editors:
Confederation Parkway; in Brampton at Michelle Bilek • Rosemary Keenan
the John Howard Society, 134 Main St. Graphic Designer: Patti Moran
N., just south of Church St.
Contributors:
Michelle Bilek, Laura Bilyea, Leo Dias, Ryan
Gurcharn, Rosemary Keenan, Dr. Paula DeCoito,
Early 2017 meetings
Dr. Simon Black, Shaila Kibria Carter, Sophia
Brampton: January 12, March 9, May 11 Ramsay, Norma Nicholson, Adaoma Patterson,
Bret Sheppard, Sankofa, Edisiri Udoh, Amrik
Mississauga: Feb. 9, April 13, June 8
Ahluwalia, Huda Abbas, David Green, Sonia
Sidhu MP.
www.ppag.wordpress.com
Printed by: Atlantic Web Printers
Homeless: Advertising
The Video Pumping adrenaline at Whistler Mountain Bike Park – It’s the goal (along with Rates
architecture) of an injured diner. (Photo by Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova)
AK nights Table diner is on dis- days in the construction industry are
Spaces and Places: Uncovering Tough Times distributes 10,000
ability support because he over. So he plans to pedal his way into
Homelessness in the Region of Peel copies, throughout Peel Region.
smashed his wrist and injured architecture, the office-based part of
is a 15-minute video in which
his back while crashing his motorcycle, the building trade Target audience is people
homeless people describe their experiencing homelessness, using
thus putting him out of the construc- Good luck, biker.
experiences. A team from PPAG, food banks and soup kitchens,
tion industry’s workforce.
including a once-homeless person, people who are struggling,
He’s changing bikes. He plans to •••
will show the video to a group plus faith groups, social service
invest in a mountain bike and come
on request. There is no charge. agencies, trades unions, business
summer head west to Vancouver to Then there’s the lady who has been a
To book a showing contact people, and the general public.
Whistler, the 5,020 ft. mountain that single Mom since she was 18, no help
[email protected]. To advertise in Tough Times:
gets more than a million visitors a year, from the boyfriend. Her little girl is
Allow about 45 minutes for the [email protected]
most of whom use its 38-foot annual 12, needs clothes for school, needs …
video and discussion. Phone: [phone]
dump of snow for skiing and other just about everything. Mom needs the
Mail address: 4 - 287 Glidden Road
cool sports. money to provide it and has a plan.
The video was made by a Brampton ON L6W 1H9, Canada
For our young friend, the big attrac- She’s taking a course in mortgage
team from York University, in Advertising rates: (colour included)
tion is Whistler Mountain Bike Park, management, helping people who have
cooperation with the Social Business card: $90
which the Whistler website says is “the enough money for the down payment
Planning Council of Peel, financed 1/16 page: $100
number one lift-accessed downhill bike on a house or condo to get to the next
by a grant from the Ontario 1/8 page: $155
park in the world. With 70 expert- step – persuading the banks or other
Trillium Foundation. 1/4 page: $240
ly-crafted trails spread throughout four lenders to put up the rest of the cash.
1/2 page: $430
distinct mountain zones, we offer the “You are the go-between and you
3/4 page: $600
You can buy Spaces and Places
most terrain of any bike park in North get a cut,” she says. Full page: $755
on a memory stick for $50. Email
America. “ And she’s on the road to getting a
[email protected] or A full page is approximately 10 inches
Sounds exciting. house of her own.
wide by 12 inches deep = 120 square
phone [phone].
Our biker knows his heavy lifting Good luck, single Mom. inches. E&OE
Tough Times – January-February, 2017 3
PARENTS AND COMMUNITY ARE KEYI
School Board plan: Success for Black male students
BY DAVID GREEN community environments, time with their children to oversee their of their children.
I
n order to address the allowing for familiarity, homework and extracurricular activ- Responsibility lies with us as parents
unique and special- open communication, and ities. Often, parent’s voice concerns to provide the community resources
ized needs of trou- trusting relationships with such as: there is no father in the home, to help our children with their devel-
bled youth, Peel District all stakeholders. I am a single parent, and I have to work opment, achievement and educational
School Board took a bold The objective is to re- two jobs to make ends meet. Children growth.
step – initiating an inves- duce and eventually close come to school unprepared. The board and the school system
tigation to determine how the gap, so that black male Often the students loitering in the have equal responsibilities to ensure all
best to provide service to achievement programs hallway are visible minorities, mostly students are given the tools that they
black male students that are designed to serve black males. When asked why they are need to succeed, in a caring and friendly
School trustee David
will ensure they are on a youth ages six through 12. not in class, the most environment.
Green (Tough Times photo)
pathway to success. Programs must be devel- frequent responses Students feel that they are
Based on the findings oped with the involvement are “The teacher does not respected
of the Board’s investigation and in of schools, teachers, youth, parents, not like me” or “I and are therefore
conjunction with the FACES Report families, community volunteers and don’t understand not encouraged
by United Way of Peel, the Board has community agencies. the work” or “The to participate in
developed a strategy that will include Further, program components must work it too hard.” classroom discus-
consultation with parents and leaders serve a dual purpose: first, it should It is a famil- sions and projects
from the black community. involve families, and second, students. iar situation that in-class.
This is a major step in the right di- Additionally, community outreach ser- must be ad- Recent research
rection; however, from my perspective vices will assist families in identifying dressed imme- suggests that if black
as a parent, and as executive director and obtaining community resources to diately. Some students are to succeed
of Free For All Foundation – a not- support their children at home. of the options in the school system,
for-profit organization that provides Research shows that when parents could be a then educators must
support to black youth in Peel and the are involved in their children’s educa- faith-based be willing to change
GTA – and, as a School Board trustee, tion, children are more likely to earn program; a their beliefs about black
for this strategy to work, the framework good grades, attend school more often, leadership students. Teachers are
must include: have high test scores, behave better, program; working very hard in most
• Integrating healthy and wellness graduate from high school, and attend however, students instances to introduce
physical activity and self-esteem college. are also faced with responsibili- effective teaching strat-
into a comprehensive curriculum; As leader of an organization that ties that are linked to parents working egies, but usually in terms of reading
• Building capacity of staff in runs programs for disadvantaged and longer hours outside the home. For instruction; research suggests that in
youth-serving settings with education at-risk youth, I know that parents play example, some students are unable to order to improve students’ reading
promotion strategies and activities; an integral role in children’s education. engage in such programs because they skills, teachers must teach students to
• Encouraging parent support for The education system plays a major have part-time jobs or they have to go decode and comprehend various styles
families’ engagement in educational role, but the school board is only one home to take care of siblings. of texts and information.
and physical activity, education in part of the solution. Parents must Parents must be able to take great- Another aspect is the role of gov-
the home environment; support their children, especially black er interest in their children’s education ernment and social agencies. What
• Involvement of parents who must males, so that their grades align with if we are to reduce and eliminate the role can these agencies play? Certainly
be on board in a 100% partnership other students in the school system. loitering in hallways and the negative at- they can be instrumental in raising
from the get-go; Understandably parents are frus- titude toward teachers and homework. awareness on issues facing black male
• Programs must be conducted in safe trated when they are not able to spend Parents are the primary educators See “School Board...”, page 8
Don’t Go Hungry.
If you are struggling to make ends meet, have to
choose between paying rent or buying food, or have
more bills than income... The Mississauga Food Bank is
here to help you.
Anyone in need and living in Mississauga can use a
neighbourhood food bank or other member agency
regardless of age, sexual orientation, race, religion,
gender or immigration status.
Visit www.themississaugafoodbank.org/getfood
4 Tough Times – January-February, 2017
A New Year of new things to do
I
t’s 2017, time for new di- ToughTomes lines and tips on forecasting Let’s Sew
rections, embracing things the weather. Learn how to sew with 10 easy projects for kids and
you’ve never done, and beginners. Children will learn the invaluable skill of
expanding your skills and re- BY LAURA BILYEA, Librarian Bugs, Bees, and Other Buzzy sewing on a button as well as a running stitch. Easy-
lationships. Yes, as Mom said: Central Library, Mississauga Creatures: Full of Fun Facts to-make projects include birds, badges, and fish book-
“Try new things and meet new and Activities, marks. Let’s Sew is a fun sewing book that teaches
people.” by Margaret Parrish practical skills to last a lifetime.
Kids need to have New Year’s resolutions, too. Learn about the insect world with fun activities and
They don’t have to cost much, except a bit of time and amazing facts. Discover why bees buzz and why lady- Make Build Create: Sculpture Projects for
some healthy curiosity. That’s where libraries come in. bugs are red, as you complete fun craft activities. Each Children, by Paula Briggs
Here is a list of books that children and their care- page has clear, engaging photos with clear text and Children of all ages are encouraged to explore how
givers can use together to learn about foraging in the step-by-step instructions. they might transform a wide variety of natural and
outdoors right where they live, or using up crafting Let’s Get Crafty with Paper & Glue: For Kids man-made materials through a series of open-ended
material “ends” to make new things that are fun, use- Aged 2 and Up; projects. Inspiration is taken from architecture, land-
ful or can move! scapes, figures, and objects in the everyday environ-
And as always, drop in to your local branch library Let’s Get Crafty with Salt Dough: 25 Creative ments around us. These carefully selected activities
to find out what programs are being held for kids and and Fun Projects for Kids Aged 2 and Up; enable children to learn sculptural techniques such as
for adults! Most Mississauga Library programs are Let’s Get Crafty with Fabric & Felt: For Kids casting, carving and construction while making per-
free. Who knows what you’ll learn or who you’ll meet? Aged 2 and Up; sonal sculptural artworks.
www.mississauga.ca/portal/residents/childrens- Each book in this series by CICO Kids staff has 25
services activities all made possible using scraps, and bits-and-
Back at work…
www.mississauga.ca/portal/residents/librarynews bobs that you might have around the house. From
paper chains to decorate your child’s bedroom, to pre- now what?
Let Your Kids Go Wild Outside: Creative Ways to paring salt-dough sculptures, to creating a pom-pom
Help Children Discover Nature and Enjoy the bumble bee, these books can teach fine motor skills The 435 members of Peel Children’s Aid
Great Outdoors, and inspire your kids to get crafty! Society staff who are members of the Canadian
by Fiona Bird Union of Public Employees (CUPE 4914) are
In this inspirational book, with ideas for children Decorative Card Crafts, back at work after a 13-week strike.
of all ages, foraging expert Fiona Bird shows the by Annalees Lim Money and most other issues have been set-
value of playing outside and discovering nature. Cards for special occasions are expensive but the personal tled, but front-line workers and support staff ap-
For those who don’t want to be far from home, touch is always missing. My own kids have been making pear to remain fed up with caseloads and more.
there’s plenty to do such as making a snail holiday personalized cards for family and friends for over 15 years! So what’s next?
village or making seasonal recipes from natural in- This high-interest crafting guide teaches readers how to Staff and management have agreed to bind-
gredients. This book also teaches children about create decorative cards for birthdays, Christmas, Diwali, ing arbitration, which means a “disinterested
their environment, including conservation guide- Hanukkah, Valentine’s Day, Eid-Ul-Fitr, and more! third-party” will listen to their arguments and tell
them what must be done.
As Tough Times went to press, no date had
Hepatitis C been set for arbitration meetings, and manage-
ment and union were following the rules by not
making public statements, except for news releas-
es announcing the end of the strike.
Treatment, Care & Support Is Available
Management said: “We are grateful that our
staff can now get back to the important work
You can be at risk if:
they do to supporting children, youth and families
•
in our community.”
The union said: “Our focus has always been
Sharing of personal care and hygiene items such as razors,
on the children and families of Peel and now we
toothbrushes, clippers and scissors with someone living with
• can return to our job of giving the highest level
hepatitis C
• of care possible.”
Sharing needles used for body tattoos and piercings. Re-using and sharing tattoo ink and ink pots
• Excerpts from Peel CAS 2015-16 annual report:

Funding from the province has a 2% cap on
Receive blood and body organs that have not been screened for hepatitis C. Even in Canada, if you
• increases “which is less than the cost of providing
received blood and organ donations before 1990 you may be at risk. services to our growing population...We continue
Contact:
Involved in medical procedures including immunization in hepatitis C endemic countries to advocate with elected officials to highlight the
Bloom Clinic
need for more equitable funding in Peel.”
40 Finchgate Blvd. Suite 224 to book a free test. Statistics in the Report: nearly 13,000 calls to

Brampton, ON L6T 3J1 Peel CAS; 8,000 investigations; 11,000 families
Phone: [phone] | [email protected] served.
Tough Times – January-February, 2017 5
WHITE SUPREMACY/RACISMI
An insidious oppression
BY BROTHER SANKOFA Afrikan people have been living under White Racism Afrikan (black) people are at the bottom or
W
hen we hear the term – “White Supremacy/ Supremacy/Racism for the last few thousand years. close to the bottom of every social indicator that mea-
Racism” some people may think about Therefore, I would like to provide the definition of sures success and well-being.
injustice, discrimination and prejudice. Anti-Black Racism: “It is the practice of prejudice,
However, it is much more insidious, calculating and discrimination, and stereotyping that is directed at Brother Sankofa is a Brampton poet, activist and com-
deadly for those of us who have lived under this op- Afrikan people by persons classified as white with munity developer. Email [email protected]
pressive global system for the past 2,000 years. the purpose of replicating their historic systems of Brother Sankofa is writing a series of articles dealing with
Elder Neeley Fuller, Jr., stated, “If you don’t un- slavery and colonialism in an effort to keep Afrikan White Supremacy/Racism and how it specifically affects
derstand white supremacy, which is racism, what it people worldwide at a subservient level in religion, Afrikan/Black people in all areas of activity: spirituality
is and how it works, everything else that you under- education, economics, and other important spheres.” and religion, education, economics, labour, health, justice, crime,
stand will only confuse you.” Every black, brown, politics, entertainment, war and sex. Watch for instalments.
red and yellow person in the world must learn the “...under the system of White Supremacy/Racism
scientific outcomes and control mechanism of Afrikan (black) people are at the bottom or Editor’s recommended reading:
“White Supremacy/Racism” in order to eliminate it. close to the bottom of every social indicator that The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of
European/white people are a minority in the world measures success and well-being.” Colorblindness. Author Michelle Alexander traces the
but control most of planet earth. development of anti-Black laws, practices, adminis-
Ancestor Dr. Frances Cress Welsing defined White In order to understand how White Supremacy/ tration, in what is now the United States, since the
Supremacy/Racism – as “the belief in the superior- Racism affects the different colors in the world, we 1600s. Apparent improvements have been followed
ity of white people leading to the direct or indirect will share this nursery rhyme: by re-assertion of White supremacy, until today, she
subjugation of all non-whites by white people for the “If you’re white, you’re alright, says, the U.S. has the highest rate of incarceration in
purpose of pleasing and serving any or all white per- If you’re yellow, you’re mellow, the world, higher than Russia, China or Iran. More
sons, at all times, in all areas of activity, including eco- If you’re brown, stick around, than two million Americans are in jail, most of them
nomics, health, education, entertainment, labour, law, But, if you’re black, get back. people of colour, many on drug charges. With allega-
justice, politics, spirituality, religion, crime, war and – Nile Valley Contributions to Civilization, p. 26. tions even here in Peel that Blacks are policed differ-
sex.” White Supremacy/Racism speaks to the global Anthony Browder. ently to Whites, it’s scary stuff.
domination by whites from Europe over the different Mississauga and Brampton Libraries have The New
colours of the world. Therefore, under the system of White Supremacy/ Jim Crow. Check it out.

Basic Income Pilot
Basic income is a payment to Mississauga Meeting Brampton Meeting
individuals or families to make Thursday, January 12, 2017 Wednesday, January 18, 2017
sure that everyone benefits from Time: 6:00 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3 p.m.
a minimum level of income.
Region of Peel Knight’s Table
The Ontario government is
7120 Hurontario Street 4 – 287 Glidden Road
considering a pilot project to
(at Derry)
test basic income.
2nd Floor, Room 421
We want YOUR ideas.
To register by email: [email protected]
Peel Poverty Reduction Strategy Tel: [phone] EXT 8782
Committee, Peel Poverty Action
Bus tickets available. Light refreshments will be served.
Group (PPAG) and the Region
For more information visit:
of Peel are hosting meetings about
www.ontario.ca/page/basic-income-pilot-consultation
Ontario’s Basic Income pilot.
All are welcome to attend and
PEEL POVERTY
provide input.
ACTIONGROUP
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The high cost of law CLOSING THE GAP
Getting the goods to Knight’s Table
BY HUDA ABBAS
Celebrities and others flock to Knight’s Table bearing gifts, MIAG Centre for Diverse Women and Families in ¢
goodies and goodwill. Mississauga has received a grant of $74,598 through the Law
JU TI E
The place is Peel’s only 365-days-a-year three-meals- Foundation of Ontario for a project titled Closing the Gap:
Building Service Providers Legal Capacity to Improve Access to Justice $
a-day soup kitchen. As a registered charity, it provides Justice comes at a price. If you need that an unmapped wander through ance only through the research that basic legal training for up to 125 indi-
for Immigrants and Refugees.
tax receipts for cash donations over $20. It is in constant a lawyer, it can cost a fortune. If you the justice system cost her $3,000. you can do for yourself, plus advice on viduals in Peel who already work with
In partnership with legal experts, MIAG will train 100-125
don’t have a fortune, expect trial and But change is on the way, with two court procedures. The more you can do immigrants and refugees. They will learn
need of supplies, especially fresh vegetables and the individuals who work directly with immigrants and refugees to
all the tribulations that go with it. projects affecting Peel: yourself, the less it costs. It’s dubbed “un- enough to help their clients navigate
equip them with the knowledge, skills, and tools to provide basic
money to buy them. Phone [phone] for more info.
Members of Peel Poverty Action The National Self-Represented bundling”. the legal system – specifically in matters legal information to aid clients in navigating the legal system.
Group recently reported that unless you Litigants Project (NSRLP) is publishing a The Closing the Gap Project spon- of domestic violence, sexual harass- The project will tackle the legal issues of violence (do-
Merry mu-
sic: Santa hats know your way around the court sys- list of lawyers who will charge you only sored by MIAG, the Centre for Diverse ment, and child welfare. mestic, sexual, harassment) and child welfare.
and peace tem, you can’t win. One member said for the work they do, providing guid- Women and Families, plans to provide Front-line workers and managers, settlement workers,
and goodwill counsellors as well as community and faith leaders will be able
marked a per- ‘Unbundling’ may save money to attend a set of five to eight workshops, to be offered twice in
formance by
Mississauga, twice in Brampton, and once in Caledon.
Santa’s Sing-
MIAG asked the Law Foundation of Ontario (LFO) for
ers. (Knights
Table photo) funding to improve access to justice for immigrants and ref-
ugees since the arrival in Canada over the last 12 months of
Online info is being promoted in people in navigating the system. Phone [phone]. 25,000 refugees.
BY EDNA TOTH North America as a way to promote His office is in north Mississauga. More than 11,400 Syrian refugees have settled in Ontario,
T
he National Self-Represented justice. Not so, say self-reps. Websites almost half in the GTA. Thus far, over 75% of the refugees
Litigants Project began about contain broken links, jargon, unex- Marie Nickle was called to the Bar in 1994 and Canada has received are women and children.
2012. plained legal terms. They provide Mississauga, has the third largest population of Syrian de-
practices family law only. She has a master’s degree in
Chris Faber (photo supplied) Research in Brampton, B.C., legal material when what is needed is scent after Toronto and Montreal. The impact of such a sud-
Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR), provides court
Alberta and elsewhere in Ontario in- advice on practical tasks like serving den arrival of refugees has overwhelmed service agencies.
representation as well as alternates to court services
volved talks with lawyers and court or filing court papers, presentation Closing the Gap will build the capacity and skills of service
in collaborative law, mediation, arbitration, and inter-
staff, judges, but especially self-repre- techniques, a strategy for talking to providers to respond to clients’ basic legal needs.
est-based negotiation. She trains lawyers and other
Gifts for the hungry: Jagmeet Singh What’s cooking, Linda? Bramp- sented litigants – people who present the other side. In any case, self-reps MIAG has noticed that low-income and isolated people
MPP for Bramalea-Gore-Malton (cen- ton Mayor Linda Jeffrey serving food at (With permission of NSRLP) professionals in collaborative dispute resolution and
their own cases in court without a reported, different websites had con- – racialized groups, such as immigrants and refugees – are
tre, blue turban) is joined by support- Knights Table told diners how pleased she teaches part of an ADR post-graduate certificate
ers including young people to deliver was that Peel child care benefitted from legal professional to help them. flicting information. program at Humber College. Nickle is also a Dispute most likely to seek out, or rely on, in-person support from
much-needed supplies to Knights Table. her work as an MPP for Brampton Centre Why no lawyer? High costs (something like $300 an The NSRLP study declared that no matter how trusted intermediaries, such as social service workers and
Resolution Officer at the Superior Court of Justice
The Singh Khalsa Sewa Club, Brampton and Brampton-Springdale. As a politician hour for a lawyer) versus low income. Nearly 60% of complete, comprehensive and user-friendly, on-line community leaders to receive legal information (CLEO,
in Brampton, a presenter at mandatory information
Gurdwara Committee, and others con- she was able to get Brampton and other self-reps had income below $50,000 a year, and 40% resources are insufficient to meet SRL needs for face- 2013; Cohl & Thomson, 2008).
sessions at Brampton Court, and off-site family law
tributed 2,362 lbs of food and 22 blan- municipalities in Peel a fairer share of so-
had incomes below $30,000. to-face orientation, education and other support. A 2013 study conducted by Dr. Melina Buckley, titled
kets. (Knights Table photo) cial service funds. (ToughTimes photo) Information sessions, and is a roster mediator for Peel
Cash-poor people ran out of their own money, Enhanced on-line technologies can be an important Evolving Legal Services: Review of Current Literature, prepared for
Family Mediation Services. Phone [phone]. Her
exhausted their entitlement to Legal Aid, yet the out- component of SRL programming – for example the Community Legal Education Ontario, also found that people
Paul Steckley (photo supplied) office is in Lorne Park.
comes could be huge – 60% of them were involved in development of sites developed specifically for SRL’s seek traditional legal advice from non-professional sources,
Cocoa, cookies and a mug were present- family issues, mostly divorce. They could not afford to making use of interactive technology - but cannot pro- rather than formal justice authorities.
ed to diners at Knights Table by Zaid Al- have a lawyer, though many learned to their cost that vide a complete service. Paul Steckley became a lawyer in 2000, and has To ensure that immigrants and refugees receive equi-
Rawni on behalf of Islamic Relief Canada, they couldn’t afford not to have one. So the Self-Represented Litigants Project has a table legal services, various service providers involved in
worked chiefly in family law. He is a member of Peel
where he is Chief Executive Officer. (Photo
So they represented themselves. How do self-reps plan to help self-reps. It requires finding lawyers who settlement, healthcare, education, advocacy, and faith and
by Shaila Kibria Carter) Halton Collaborative Group, which tries to settle sep-
feel about the legal system after their case is heard? will guide men and women through the court process, ethno-cultural supports, must be well-informed. Different
aration and divorce issues without going to court. He
According to a 147-page Project report (link below) coaching them as required, guiding them through the educational tools will be used in the training.
offers unbundled legal services, including coaching for
“almost all the SRL respondents became disillusioned, legal tangles, but not representing them in court. The Project's name: Closing the Gap: Building Service
court appearances, document review, editing assistance,
frustrated, and in some cases overwhelmed by the hourly rate the lawyers charge remains the same, but far Providers’ Legal Capacity to Improve Access to Justice for
and dispute resolution coaching. He charges $300 an
complexity of their case” and the time involved. Court fewer hours are involved. Self-reps get necessary advice, Immigrants and Refugees
hour. Phone [phone]. His office is in northeast
NORTH PEEL & DUFFERIN staff, including judges, shared their load. but don’t waste their time and resources on acquiring Funder: Law Foundation of Ontario
Mississauga.
Trouble begins as the case begins. Filling in the re- information they don’t need. Funding stream: Access to Justice Fund (ATJF)
Community Legal Services
Brian Metson (photo supplied) quired forms is tough (lawyers agree) or even finding The new process is called “unbundling”, and law-
Free legal services for low income residents of Brampton, out which forms to use; some written guides meant to yers who will provide this service are listed in a data- Chris Haber deals with personal injury, family, MIAG’s partners so far:
g be simple explanations of court procedures are them- base at http://representingyourselfcanada.com/database/ South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario (SALCO); FCJ Refugee
employment, real estate, wills and estates. Phone 1-289
Caledon and Dufferin County selves confusing. Mistakes can lead to adjournments, Four Peel lawyers were on the list as Tough Times Centre, facilitate workshops; Hispanic Development Council, facil-
768-7194. His office is in north-east Mississauga. He
g Problems with your landlord? involving more time and stress. went to press. Maybe more now. also practices in Milton, Oakville, Burlington. itate workshops; Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO),
Some self-reps complained about the lawyers they facilitate workshops; Mississauga Community Legal Services
Is your rent subsidy threatened?
g had used earlier. Complaints included: counsel “doing Brian Metson, first of local lawyers to appear in References: (MCLS), facilitate workshops; India Rainbow Community
g Was your application for Ontario Disability Support Program nothing”; counsel not interested in settling the case, the database, has worked as a lawyer since 1995, and is NSRLP Report 2012: http://representingyourself- Services, provide a space for one of Brampton’s training rounds;
benefits denied? counsel making mistakes, not listening, not explaining, now involved in estate planning, wills, estate adminis- canada.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/srlreport- Caledon Community Services, provide space for Caledon’s train-
not competent. final.pdf) ing; Catholic Family Services of Peel, provide a space (in principle).
Problems with Ontario Works? tration, and other aspects of law. He notes that Estates
g Court staff are identified as the most helpful to self- For lawyers considering “unbundling”: http://
courts can be difficult for a non-lawyer, as applications
reps, but are limited – by rules around providing “legal representingyourselfcanada.com/wp-content/up- Huda Abbas is executive director of MIAG: Centre for Diverse
can be rejected for “seemingly minor problems” which
905-455-0160 Toll Free from Dufferin 1-866-455-0160 [email protected] advice” and by the number of people who seek assistance. loads/2016/11/Nuts-and-Bolts-FINAL.pdf Women and Families
with proper advice can be easily fixed. He will coach
Marie Nickle (photo supplied)
8 Tough Times – January-February, 2017
Peel Police want YOU...
cont. from page 1
To ensure we have a better understanding of the lack of diversity and gender equality within Peel Regional
Police, the Board has commissioned a comprehensive independent review of recruitment and promotional
policies. This work has commenced and we will report back to the community what the service is doing right
and what other steps need to be taken to address this gap.
I would like to tell you what this audit is NOT:
It is NOT to dilute recruiting standards;
It is also NOT to discriminate against any group.
The objective is to ensure we have a level playing field and a police service where every segment of society
School board...
is welcomed; where young women and men of every background, colour and social status are treated fairly and
have an equal opportunity to be hired and promoted, based on skill and performance. Period.
cont. from page 3
students. All parties must create policies, systems, 3. NO ONE LEFT BEHIND
and environmental interventions, that can moti- Even in such a progressive country as Canada, a segment of the population does not have a voice.
vate individuals to change behaviours and ideas. You are all well aware of this segment, whose concerns for far too long have not been heard or addressed
The system can also engage families in initi- adequately. This is not a Peel-specific problem and is pervasive in society.
ating and maintaining relationships with schools We have started conversations with organizations like United Way to figure out how best to reach this group
that promote programs to develop their children’s of our citizens; how our brothers and sisters and children who have been marginalized can best be reached.
skills, so families have an equal playing field in sup- We want to assess how policing affects them, what concerns them and how the police can work differently
porting behaviour change in their children. to address their unique issues.
Finally, government agencies can also be effec- Stay tuned as we embark on this important journey.
tive in providing financial assistance and funding
to support programs that assist in building the What can you do to help?
skills of youth, such as mentoring programs that Well, we can’t do this alone. This is your community and your police service – so please get involved. We
are structured and designed to build emotional in- invite you to share in the conversation of how to make Peel police serve you better.
telligence, particularly in the context of interper- And, finally, apply to work with us. Encourage others to consider Peel Police Service as a career; they will
sonal relationships. be thankful that you did.
These programs can provide opportunities to
help with problem-solving, decision-making, and So you want to join the police
goal-setting. And provide structured activities for
youth who might otherwise drift into problem be-
haviours.
A high school diploma is required, but a university degree is better in the competi-
Hopefully the suggested initiatives and pro-
tive world of policing. You must be of good character, a good driver, and lots, lots
grams can help to create opportunities for black
more. Peel Police require an Applicant Testing Services (ATS) certificate confirming
male students to connect with various groups, es-
that you have completed various tests with this third-party organization. The tests
pecially black leaders and role models in ways that
cost you money.
allow them to discuss complex and common ex-
periences for healing and growth. It will take the
PLUS Peel Police want to hire “community-minded young individuals” as cadets,
village to be the change for our under-achievers.
learning policing in an “apprentice-ship style program”. Check these URLs:
David Green is a trustee on Peel District School Board for www.peelpolice.ca/en/jobsopportunities/minimumqualificationscadet.asp
Wards 1 and 5 in Brampton. and the Peel Police application form at:
www.peelpolice.ca/en/jobsopportunities/resources/PRP-157E---Application-Form.pdf
We Rise Together and the FACES Report art work are
used with permission.
A proud Canadian Union representing over
5,000 workers and over 1,500 retirees.
Promoting community spirit is a commitment
we take seriously!
Local 1285
Tough Times – January-February, 2017 9
THE HOMELESSNESS RIDDLEI
They’ve got jobs, but live in shelters
BY SONIA SIDHU sleep outdoors. All participants agreed
O
ctober 19th, 2016 marked that resources are lacking, with no
my first year as a Member of youth or women’s shelter in Brampton.
Parliament for the riding of Based on information from the
Brampton South. Over the year, I have roundtable, I toured Brampton’s
seen a side of Brampton that is often only shelter: The Salvation Army on
indiscernible to the naked eye. When Wilkinson Road. Then I understood
I tell people that I am from Brampton, the issue from the perspective of those
they talk about the growing industrial living in shelters. My visit dispelled my
corridor on Steeles Avenue, the rising commonly held belief that people liv-
house prices, and gridlock; never do ing in shelters do not want to work or
they think that Brampton could have a do not have jobs. During my visit I saw
problem with homelessness. that many men were sleeping during the
My riding of Brampton South in- day because they had worked the night
cludes the downtown core of Brampton shift. At the shelter I saw a new side of
– quite different from the rest of homelessness in which individuals are
Sonia Sidhu, MP (Photo supplied)
Brampton; it has the small town charm working but are homeless, a concept
of the past in the middle of an emerging that many cannot fathom.
modern city. The streets are bustling and This led me to explore homeless- Partnering Strategy. a positive difference in the lives of peo-
the people are warm-hearted. Almost ness in Brampton further. First, a ride- I look forward to working with our ple in vulnerable situations.
everyone has become a familiar face. along with Peel Paramedics, canvassing municipal and provincial partners, local
But among these familiar faces are hot spots in Brampton South and dis- community organizations and residents Sonia Sidhu is the Member of Parliament
people who are homeless. cussing problems facing the homeless to continue to address homelessness. for Brampton South, member of the Health
Visualizing and understanding that – among them mental health. People Together, we can create a plan for Committee, and Co-Chair of the Diabetes
homelessness is part of our society is with mental illnesses report higher in- Brampton with actions that will make Caucus
step one in addressing the issue. To cidences of homelessness, largely be-
grasp what homelessness looks like in cause they encounter more barriers to
Brampton I participated in the United employment and have less community
Know Your Rights @ Work
Way of Peel Region’s Longest Night. and familial support.
The purpose of this challenge is to I also rode along with Peel Regional
Workshop
spend a night in your car and experi- Police, learning about their initia-
ence the struggle many homeless resi- tives to combat homelessness, such
dents are facing. The challenge was an as Operation: Leave the Streets Behind,
 Are You Covered by the Employment
eye-opening experience as it showed aiming to ensure that every homeless
Standards Act
that homelessness does not always or near-homeless veteran gets help in
entail living on the streets – it has a leaving the streets and finding secure  What is Employment Insurance &
different meaning for many residents. housing. Do I Qualify?
(The next Longest Night in Peel is Friday, Through first responders, I learned  Under What Grounds Can I File a
February 17, 2017) that homelessness is just one piece of
Human Rights Case?
I believe every segment of our so- the puzzle; with homelessness come
ciety must be treated with dignity and issues of mental health, addictions For answers to these questions and many more
respect and be given the opportunity and prostitution, which need to be ap- sign up for one of our free in house sessions taking place
to make a meaningful contribution. proached with equal levels of concern.
the 4th Thursday of every month from 2:00—4:00.
For this to happen we must provide Here in Brampton many organiza-
adequate support to communities to tions help families and individuals by For more information or to book into one of our sessions
help homeless people lead the lives they giving them hope, dignity, and a chance [phone]
please call
wish to live. for a new start. Progress is being made
To better understand the issue of to prevent and reduce homelessness,
homelessness, I hosted a roundtable but the challenge is finding solutions
on housing, where United Way of Peel, that will last.
Regeneration Outreach, Habitat for As a Member of Parliament, my
Humanity, and the Salvation Army took duty is to represent the concerns of
part. my riding to the federal government.
The roundtable revealed that about My colleagues and I have spoken up
250 individuals are homelessness in about the impact of homelessness on Labour Community Services of Peel
Peel in any given week. Although many our communities, leading the federal
989 Derry Road East Suite 403
spend the evening at a homeless shel- Government to invest an additional
L5T 2J8
ter or couch surf, over 15% (maybe 45) $112 million through the Homelessness
10 Tough Times – January-February, 2017
Tough Times – January-February, 2017 11
Working with landlords – and more
LET’S TALK ABOUT
BASIC INCOME
O ur Place Peel provides a home for young Discrimination is against the law, but young people are The Ontario government says it wants to reduce
poverty in the province and a way to do this might
people ages 16 to 24, who don’t have any- not always given a fair chance in the housing market
be to guarantee a basic income.
where to go. because they are young, often on government assis-
They want advice on how much that income
But Our Place Peel’s 14 beds can’t look after all tance and at times recovering from traumatic events should be, and for whom, and where to run a pilot
the youth in Peel who are homeless or are at risk of that affect their mental health and appearance. project. That’s where you come in.
Two public meetings are arranged, one in
becoming homeless. Many youth have little income and obtain base-
Mississauga, one in Brampton, (see ad on page 5)
So the organization is working with landlords and ment apartments, rooms on the upper level of a house
to hear your ideas.
property owners to find more safe places for young or a bed in a longterm residential program, cost $376 Should money go to people whose income is
people to stay. to $500 a month. They struggle to stretch what’s left below a certain level? What should that level be?
Should the same amount of cash go to everyone,
In a program funded by the cross-Canada to buy food, clothing, transportation, personal items
whether they work, look for work, or not? Could
Homelessness Partnering Strategy since 2015, Our and means of communication.
a basic income replace Ontario Works, Ontario
Place Peel tries to prevent and reduce homelessness Poor health and isolation lead to lack of confidence Disability Support Program, and other forms of so-
through advocacy and education not only of its young in seeking housing, thus the need for advocacy from a cial assistance? Would people become happier,
healthier, more able to find work or improve their
clients, but with people who have rooms to rent. Housing Program such as that provided by Our Place
education? Is Peel the ideal place to run a pilot
They stress that support from Our Place Peel does Peel – and landlords willing to give young folk a chance.
project on basic income?
not end once youngsters have a place to live. Young The Housing Program hosted a meeting to pro- The Region has a huge immigrant population.
people continue to get help if needed, such as through vide up-to-date information on the Landlord and The Ontario government indicates that it wants
care packages of food and household items, bus tickets, Tenant Act, talk about renting in Peel and housing to run the basic income pilot project in a typical
area, assuming that there is one. Are lots of im-
access to a furniture bank, housing support for a mini- opportunities for homeless youth.
migrants typical of Ontario? If they are, then Peel
mum of six months and help from an outreach worker. Landlords said many young people are not mature should be right up there offering to be first to host
Young people are also encouraged to join Our enough to live independently, but housing placements the basic income pilot, and obtain for our residents
Place Peel Outreach Team’s “Youth Night” on the with a support system would make more rooms avail- whatever good things accrue. How to dish out the
money? Suggestions vary from a negative income
third Thursday of every month, which offers net- able and prevent housing breakdown.
tax to issuing cash every two weeks, enabling re-
working, improving skills and having fun. That’s the support system that Our Place Peel provides.
cipients to signal changes in family structure, such
Many Our Place Peel patrons are homeless for the Landlords prepared to rent to young people should as birth of a baby.
first time, or lack the life skills to maintain housing, phone Our Place Peel at 647 469-1383. A housing work- There’s lots to talk about. Come and join the
chatter. See Page 5.
can’t pay rent, or are unfairly treated by landlords. er will visit your rental unit and find a suitable tenant.
File your taxes.
Get your benefits.
Filing your income taxes is an easy
way to claim the benefits you and
your family deserve.
And there’s help. Call 905-791-7800,
ext. 8782 or visit the Canada Revenue
Agency website at cra-arc.gc.ca. to
find out about free tax preparation
services being offered near you.
Free tax Preparation Services are for individuals with incomes
up to $30,000 or families with income up to $40,000.
HUM-0456 16/12