Post by Victoria Mancinelli

Director, Government Relations, Communications & Strategic Partnerships

We are devastated by the senseless act of violence that unfolded at Salsa on St. Clair yesterday in Toronto. Another community celebration has been overshadowed by deadly violence. Families should never have to question whether attending a festival of family, culture and community, will end in tragedy. We stand in honour of the victims, with all who were injured, their loved ones, and with our first responders. Public safety is the foundation of every strong community. It demands decisive leadership, meaningful action, and unwavering accountability. The individual or individuals responsible for this cowardly and monstrous act must be identified, prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and held fully accountable. The people of Toronto deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods, on their streets, and at the community events that bring us together. We cannot accept violence as the new normal. The time for words alone has passed. It is time for meaningful action that restores public safety, protects our communities, and ensures those who commit these crimes face swift and serious consequences. Yesterday’s violence stole moments of joy from an entire community, but it will not break our resolve. We stand united with those affected, committed to building safer communities where families can gather without fear.