Our hearts are with the Salsa on St. Clair community

Like so many Torontonians, I was heartbroken by the tragic violence at Salsa on St. Clair. What should have been a joyful celebration of culture, music and community instead became a scene of unimaginable loss. My deepest condolences go to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, those recovering from their injuries, and everyone whose sense of safety was shaken. My thoughts are also with the festival organizers, volunteers, local businesses and the entire St. Clair community, whose hard work was overshadowed by a senseless act of violence.

Toronto's festivals are part of what makes our city extraordinary. They celebrate our diversity, strengthen our neighbourhoods and bring people together across cultures. We cannot allow criminal violence to take those spaces away.

This tragedy is a reminder that we must remain resolute in confronting gun violence, illegal firearms and gang activity. That means strong enforcement against violent offenders, while continuing to invest in prevention, youth opportunities and community safety initiatives that help stop violence before it starts. We must also continue to strengthen festival safety by learning from every incident and working with organizers, first responders, and community partners to protect the public.

Those of us in Willowdale know that violence does not have the final word. After the Yonge Street Tragedy, our community came together with extraordinary compassion and resilience to help one another heal. In doing so, we emerged with even stronger community ties than before. That same spirit reminds us that, even in our darkest moments, communities can choose hope over fear.

As we grieve, we must remain united. We cannot let fear define our city or discourage the celebrations that bring us together. The answer is not fewer festivals, it is safer festivals, stronger communities, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring families can continue gathering in the vibrant, welcoming city we all love.