KnowYourVote Toronto

councillor

Nathen Masri

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Muslim, Sikh, Jewish, Christian, newcomer or lifelong Canadian—if you have a beating heart, you belong here. I’ll strengthen hate-crime response, protect places of worship and invest in youth prevention before hate becomes violence. I also want emergency services modernized: firefighters should be trained and equipped to help when seconds matter, including overdoses. Toronto needs new-generation solutions, not old-guard politics. Safety, dignity and belonging must apply to everyone.

councillor

Chloe Brown

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I'd create low-cost, high-impact gathering spaces that bring newcomers and longtime residents together. I'd push fore more sattelite festivals to showcasesracialized and equity-deserving communities outside the downtown core to increase cultural exchanges and exposure to multilingualism. I'd also promote the diversification of public programs like supporting the creation of culturally aligned healthcare products and services, funding for theatres to archive and perform traditional stories, and increased support for smaller international games.

councillor

Ian Cunningham

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

We cannot allow hate to shape how people experience our city. Toronto's strength comes from people of different backgrounds living, working, and building a future together. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their neighbourhood and treated with dignity and respect. I will support efforts to combat hate and discrimination, strengthen community relationships, and ensure that all residents feel welcome in our public spaces and civic institutions.

councillor

Paul Nash

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I’m committed to ensuring that all City of Toronto employees, volunteers, Accountability Officers and their staff, elected officials and their staff, the Toronto Police Service (TPS), and all organizations operating in Toronto strictly abide by the Ontario Human Rights Code. I’ll also make certain they fully respect the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Full compliance will ensure equal treatment and a harassment-free environment for all individuals living, visiting or conducting business in our City.

councillor

Bashar Kassir

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto is a diverse city, and we must strengthen the sense of community and cohesion that brings us together. Before deciding what to do and how to respond, I believe we should ask why a particular hostile incident happened and seek to understand its underlying causes. I would prioritize meaningful community engagement and dialogue that encourage understanding and respect among residents. Everyone should feel safe and welcome. I will stand up for those less able to speak for themselves while respecting the rights and freedoms of all residents.

councillor

Ausma Malik

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto is the most diverse city in the world and we must hold firm to each other’s humanity, well-being, and justice. With City Hall in my ward I’ve prioritized welcome for my communities, inviting school and newcomer groups to visit and making space there for community celebrations. We need to keep investing in programming and services for newcomers, Black and Indigenous people, 2SLGBTQIA+ residents and those with disabilities, through our strategies such as the Reconciliation Action Plan and Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism.

councillor

Husain Neemuchwala

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto’s diversity is its greatest strength. Everyone should feel safe, respected & welcome. I would make hate incidents easier to report, ensure support & coordination between the City, community organizations, the TTC & TPS. I would invest in community-led programs that build understanding & prevent tensions from escalating. By listening to those affected and tracking results, I would focus on prevention and accountability to make Toronto safer for everyone. A key pillar would be getting help to those in need...such as harm reduction sites

councillor

Andi Hoàng-Lefranc

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

The rise in hateful and hostile behaviour has been exacerbated by the inaction of our City's leaders. Instead of placatory statements, I will prioritise introducing an anti-hate by-law that prohibits hate and harassment on all City property, including public transit and transit stops. The consequences for contravening this by-law would include: warning, education, trespass notices, and punitive monetary fines. Other municipalities have already passed similar measures, and it's time Toronto steps up to protect its most vulnerable.

councillor

Paul Viret

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

The best way to combat hate is through education and while we have anti-racism strategies inside the government and education programs there's a whole world out there the government has no say in. Community leaders, with support from the city, need to have outward facing, public events. Open houses, Barbecues, games nights, anything that lets the public actually see and get to know them. It's a lot harder to hate someone if you actually know them.

councillor

Mike Layton

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Protect rights of residents to worship and attend school in peace, and protect rights to freely protest without fear of intimidation. Invest in supports and programming for newcomers, Black and Indigenous-serving nonprofit and community organizations, 2SLGBTQIA+ residents and those with disabilities, and for groups to have meaningful input in City processes. Be present at community events celebrating our differences and what bind us as Torontonians. Combat any discrimination in Toronto Community Housing, transit and City spaces.

councillor

Gian Pileri

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize a clear, supportive response to hate and harassment. Residents should be able to report incidents easily, get help in their language and know what happens next. I would support training for City and TTC staff to respond sensitively, prompt removal of hate graffiti and services for people targeted. I would work with affected communities on prevention and seek funding for local programs that build understanding and belonging. I would speak out against hate and defend everyone's right to live in the city safely and without fear.

councillor

David Cottrell

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize consistent enforcement and equal protection. Harassment, intimidation, threats and hate should be addressed based on the conduct itself, regardless of who is responsible or what cause they claim to represent. Toronto should protect peaceful expression while drawing a clear line at behaviour that makes others fear for their safety. Everyone deserves to feel safe and welcome in this city.

councillor

Mina Nadimi

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

As Country of Canada built on immigrants specially Toronto with multi i national population has become very sensitive issue in recent years and it is effecting the newcomers and some communities . What I would do is to open up a channel of dialog by educating , discussion, round tables maybe getting sponsorships through Immigration offices , Immigration consultants, community centers specialized in Immigration for the newcomers.

councillor

Morgan Harris

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Anti-Racism efforts must be funded and woven into public dialogue within institutions. For example, groups hijacking legitimate protest about Israel actions in Gaza, have clearly targeted Jewish people and institutions, even neighbourhoods in the city. The public response must be to pursue organizers of any actions intended to threaten, intimidate or harm any group in the city regardless of their religion, ethnicity. Principles of respect and tolerance must be instilled and maintained through word and actions.

councillor

Norman MacLeod

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Victory for People to elect me, Norman MacLeod Councilor Ward13. Question here. that is something more I need to learn. What hate goes on in Ward13 is within my grasp, knowing street people. What religious hate goes on I will learn if it does. I will use stand up community watch men I know about existing.

councillor

Nicki Ward

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

As a trans woman, and elder, and thirty-year community advocate in Toronto Centre, I know the real fear and harm that hate creates. Symbolic motions and empty statements do not protect anyone. On Council, I will fund effective safety measures for community spaces, mandate rigorous hate-crime reporting and accountability from police services, expand non-police crisis response teams, and ensure rapid municipal removal of hateful graffiti. Safety is delivered through presence, deterrence, and real community support, not performative politics.

councillor

Curran Stikuts

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I spent a decade at The 519 supporting communities facing discrimination and advocating against hate. I know how deeply harassment can affect someone's sense of safety and belonging. I would prioritize funding community organizations that support people targeted by hate, making it easier to report incidents and get help, and ensuring threats and violence receive a serious response. City services and public spaces must be welcoming, with staff trained to recognize discrimination and intervene.

councillor

Maria Voutsinas

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

There should be no tolerance for hateful and hostile behaviour. There are laws against such behaviour and they should be enforced as the first step in changing the emerging culture of intolerance and polarization. Increases in community policing can deter that behaviour and help residents feel safe. The City SafeTO plan, which engages community groups for non-police solutions to community safety should be continued.

councillor

Maqsood Ahmad

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I truly love this city because people from around the world live here together. We can enjoy cultures, traditions and food, and learn from one another. Hate and discrimination have no place in our city. I would make it easier and safer to report hateful or threatening behaviour and receive a timely response. I would work with community and faith groups, newcomers, City staff and police to identify concerns early, support people who are targeted and prevent problems from becoming worse. Everyone should be treated with dignity and respect.

councillor

Dianne Saxe

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Everyone in Toronto should be able to live, worship and raise a family without being targeted for who they are or for the actions of foreign governments. It’s harder to hate people when you know your neighbours. I will keep bringing religious and community leaders together to build understanding and connection. We’ll keep removing hateful graffiti/propaganda, while investing in shared experiences and public spaces that bring people together. And I’ll support police efforts to disrupt gun-for-hire intimidation.

councillor

Michael Mitchell

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Both young and older perpetrators of hate crimes need to understand there are serious consequences to face for hate speech. I'd favour a social media ban for people under 16. Kids are learning awful behaviours on social media, which then get brought into schools and onto the street, resulting in more hate speech and hostile behaviour toward marginalized communities.

councillor

Mary Fragedakis

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and everyone should feel safe and welcome in their community. There is no place for hate, antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism or discrimination in our city. I would support strong enforcement when laws are broken, work closely with affected communities, and invest in programs and public spaces that bring people together rather than divide us.

councillor

Jason Stevens

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

a strong relationship between the affordability crisis and our role to help stop the province using BILLIONs on programs that aren't a priority will be a good path for me as councilor to lead

councillor

Denise Walcott

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would support a simple multilingual guide showing residents how to report hate and obtain help, but information alone is not enough. My office would help victims reach the appropriate service and follow up when City action is required. I would support community organizations that prevent hate, improve coordination with schools, libraries and local businesses, and push for the prompt removal of hateful graffiti. Everyone should feel safe and welcome in Toronto-Danforth.

councillor

Sara Ehrhardt

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto is a multicultural and pluralistic city, and that is the basis that I operate from. My role as Councillor will be to facilitate upholding and celebrating our multiculturalism and human rights in the work of city government. I will always strongly oppose any kind of hate, discrimination, or bigotry, and \“nothing about us without us” is a core way of working for me, so this work would always be consultative. Supporting community efforts to break down silos and barriers across communities is also a priority of mine in this context.

councillor

Sheena Sharp

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

It's important to understand hate crimes. If someone says something you disagree with, that's not a hate crime. A hate crime is attacking someone or damaging their property. STATSCAN says that in 2025, over half the police reported hate crimes were based on race or ethnicity. The next category, hate crimes based on religion, was 25% of reported incidents. The best way to address this is to reduce barriers for reporting, to charge the police with investigating these crimes, and to monitor their success.

councillor

Didi Moffat

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I will ensure Toronto remains safe and welcoming through proactive protection and accountability: Protect Community Spaces: Fund security and facility upgrades for places of worship, cultural hubs, and 2SLGBTQ+ centres facing threats or vandalism. Accessible Reporting: Support multilingual, community-based reporting hubs so victims of hate incidents can safely access legal aid and trauma-informed care. Zero Tolerance on City Spaces: Mandate strict enforcement on the TTC and city facilities, with rapid graffiti removal.

councillor

Jeffery Adamson

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would ensure regardless of status Toronto remains a world class city, and a place all are proud to call home.

councillor

Hassan Mubarak Noor Mohamed

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize a Toronto where everyone feels safe, respected and welcome. City services should respond quickly to hate and harassment, support affected residents, and work with community organizations, schools and law enforcement on prevention and education. I would strengthen community-based programs that build understanding and belonging, while ensuring public spaces are safe and accessible. Every resident deserves dignity, respect and equal access to opportunity.

councillor

Shelley Carroll

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Everyone has the right to feel safe and welcome in their neighbourhood, regardless of their background, faith or identity. I would continue supporting the Toronto Police Service’s Hate Crimes Unit to ensure hate crimes are investigated and enforced. We also need to work directly with communities, schools and local organizations to support anti-hate initiatives and give residents clear, accessible ways to report incidents and get help. Strong enforcement and sustained prevention go hand in hand to help build a city where everyone feels safe.

councillor

Sabrina Zuniga

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize consistent enforcement against threats, intimidation, vandalism, promoting terrorism and inciting hatred, regardless of the target. Police and City staff need resources to respond quickly when worship sites, schools, libraries or neighbourhoods are targeted. I support protective access measures so residents can gather, worship and learn without intimidation. The City should work with communities to improve reporting and prevent escalation. Toronto is welcoming when everyone’s dignity, safety and freedoms are defended equally.

councillor

Hamid Shakeri

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I’ve experienced this myself. However, what our media reflects is mostly influenced by agendas highlighting certain hostile attitudes while neglecting others. We have proper laws for these cases; law enforcement and the judiciary can deal with illegal activities without degrading freedoms protected under Canadian law. This issue must be dealt with independently, free from any pressure or influence by foreign agents or those lobbying on behalf of a foreign country.

councillor

Adam Smith

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

We need more block parties and local celebrations, to bring neighbourhoods together more. And more awareness of/exposure to the lived experiences of marginalized/vulnerable groups, and more education on the supports (or lack thereof) such groups receive from different levels of government.

councillor

Jennie Worden

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

A welcoming city goes beyond paying lip-service to “everyone,” and creates civic spaces where people actually belong. We absolutely need to name racism and hate when they happen, and provide better ways for people experiencing them to report and get support. But the answer to how to keep Toronto safe and welcoming is not to police behaviour,to restrict political expression, or to further militarize our police. It’s investing in the spaces and services where people come together, build networks, and support each other.

councillor

Syeda Jaana Ali

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize a zero-tolerance approach to hate and discrimination, while investing in prevention. The City should strengthen reporting and rapid response to hate incidents, support community organizations and newcomer services, and ensure public spaces, transit and City facilities are welcoming and safe. We also need education and youth programs that build understanding across communities. Toronto’s diversity is our strength, and Council must actively protect the right of every resident to live, work and participate without fear.

councillor

Mohammad Shabani

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

The Issue: Global tensions and financial stress are driving a rise in hate crimes, making many marginalized Torontonians feel unsafe on our streets. My Plan: Right Now: I will fund community-led safety teams and bystander training, ensuring rapid support for targeted groups without over-policing. For the Future: I will back our libraries and community hubs to host programs that bring diverse cultures together, building long-term empathy, safety, and a Toronto where everyone belongs. Track down global crime for hire by CSIS, RCMP, OPP, TPS

councillor

Jennifer Alexander

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

For me, this is personal, I believe a strong community is one where people know they belong & feel comfortable showing up as themselves. I’ve seen this through community events & gatherings where neighbours who might not otherwise meet come together, share their experiences and build connections. We need more of this! With The Etobicoke Voice & community work, I’ve tried to create more of those opportunities. As Councillor, I’ll make sure no one feels like they’re on their own in Etobicoke Centre. Community is how we look out for one another.

councillor

Ariel-Rachel Karokis

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

For the most part I believe most Torontonians are not hateful or hostile. Most newcomers come to this great country and receive many advantages as newcomers. Some would say that they get prioritized before our veterans, seniors and residents. I have witnessed however, residents who are not necessarily newcomers be hostile and hateful towards the Jewish community and unfortunately in the presence of children. This comes back to public safety and a better relationship with our police forces.

councillor

Taiba Ahmed

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world, but living beside one another doesn’t always mean understanding one another. I want to incentivize cultural programming at major City-supported festivals, giving communities more opportunities to share their traditions and stories. I’d also explore free community bookshelves along the Line 3 Busway, featuring diverse authors and perspectives that residents can take, read, and exchange.

councillor

Krissan Veerasingam

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I’d build connected communities where everyone feels they belong. Hateful and hostile behaviour often thrives when people are isolated and communities lack the resources to respond. I’d prioritize funding for community organizations, newcomer services, anti hate initiatives and accessible public spaces that bring people together.

councillor

Donny Morgan

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I want Toronto to be a city where everyone feels safe, respected, and welcome. I’d focus on preventing hate and harassment, supporting community organizations, and making sure residents know where to get help when something happens. We need to bring people together, listen to our communities, and make sure everyone is treated with respect.

councillor

Dan Lovell

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Coordinate with allies in the labour movement to confront and shut down hate and gatherings of the far right through mobilization.

councillor

Jackson Ho

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

We are all Canadians, and I believe our national flag should be a symbol that brings us together. When public spaces focus too heavily on competing political, religious, or identity based flags, it can sometimes deepen divisions rather than build understanding. Canada is home to people of many faiths, backgrounds, and identities, and the Canadian flag can represent all of us at once. We should celebrate our differences while emphasizing the values and country we share.

councillor

Sajawal Javed

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto is home to people from every background, and everyone deserves to feel safe and respected. I would work with local leaders, community groups, police and City staff to identify where hate and harassment are being reported and make sure concerns are acted on quickly. I would push for easier reporting, timely follow-up and regular community safety meetings. My standard is simple: no resident should feel they have to stay silent or avoid public spaces because of who they are.

councillor

Ashan Fernando

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize a Toronto where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. I would strengthen community partnerships, support anti-hate initiatives, and ensure residents have accessible ways to report and address discrimination and harassment. Working with local organizations, City services and community leaders, we can build safer, more connected neighbourhoods where newcomers and all residents feel welcome. Neighbours First. Results Always.

councillor

Vane Stavrev

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

People have the right to free speech but hateful comments and behaviour will not be tolerated.

councillor

Mihaela Andrei

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Fast response, visible & consistent. Hate graffiti should come down within 24hrs. Leaving it up says it's acceptable. People who are targeted should know where to report and who will follow up. Council should speak clearly when something happens, not weeks later. I would invest in libraries, community centres and local groups who know their communities, because it's easier to stand up for neighbours you know. I have worked in classrooms since 2009, I know ignoring this behaviour allows it to fester. Everyone who lives here belongs here.

councillor

Steve Yuen

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Please got to my WEB-Campaign Site and GO To the TAB "School Info" for more info for this important issue! -in the end the LOVE you take is equal to the LOVE you take-Beatles 1960 I also Voted for Gord Perks for 17+ yrs I VOTED for myself last election & I will VOTE for myself this coming October 26, 2026. I AM asking for your VOTE starting October 6, 2026 The City needs a Leader & Winner -in the end " YOU WIN with YUEN" Thank you for VOTING & your CONTINUING support!

councillor

Adam Pham

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

When I arrived in Toronto with my family 25 years ago, I believed that Canada was a place where no dream was too big, opportunity was in reach for anyone willing to work for it. When life is not safe or affordable, hateful behaviour grows. Lets make Toronto a safer, cleaner city; bring the cost of living down. Bring life to our neighborhoods with farmers markets, and pedestrian-friendly community spaces. Toronto should be a great place to live not just for some, but for all. My vision is to make life safe and affordable for everyone.

councillor

Holly Weber

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize a coordinated response to hate-motivated incidents, ensuring police and frontline services have the resources to respond effectively, and making incidents easier to report. I would support preventative measures including targeted security for community spaces and institutions facing credible threats, stronger community-based programs that build connections between residents, and education and outreach aimed at preventing hate before it escalates.

councillor

Diana Chan McNally

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Building community connection is key to overcoming mistrust and hate. We need to protect and build upon the opportunities we have in our neighbourhoods for community members to come together, connect and build meaningful relationships with one another. I will improve access to public spaces by reducing barriers for hosting community and neighbourhood events on City-owned and managed land, expanding microgrants for community-led activities in public spaces through the Local Leadership Grant Program, and more.

councillor

Vanessa Raponi

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto’s strength is our vast diversity, and our ability to connect over what makes us similar instead of different. We have the most vibrant, rich cultures from all countries, religions, personal hobbies and passions, and appreciating one another is the core of Toronto’s soul. We need to release the tension by simply coming together, and spending time connecting as people. Interfaith panels, bringing justice to hateful behavior or vandalism, and ultimately accelerate anti-hate rapid response planning.

councillor

Conroy Irving

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would ask council to strengthen security support for places of worship, cultural institutions, schools and community organizations that face credible threats, while ensuring responses respect Charter-protected rights.

councillor

Enzo Torrone

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Hate and hostile behavior have no place in Toronto. Every resident deserves to feel safe, and we must hold a zero-tolerance stance against discrimination and intimidation. On City Council, I will support our Police Hate Crime Unit while firmly demanding that federal and provincial governments deliver urgent bail reform to keep repeat and dangerous offenders off our streets. By pairing tough, decisive action with local anti-hate education across Ward 8, I hope to work alongside our community to ensure everyone is protected.

councillor

Jason McDonald

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Call it what it is: a crisis. Synagogues shot at, Jewish businesses vandalized, car-thefts from people's driveways. I'll require quarterly hate-crime reporting by neighbourhood, fund security grants for community institutions, and make sure every community knows the councillor's office sees them.

councillor

Neil Simon

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Everyone should feel safe and welcome in Toronto. I would support clear rules and consistent action against threats, harassment, vandalism, intimidation and violence, especially around schools, places of worship and community spaces. At the same time, peaceful and lawful expression must be respected. We can protect people from hate while also protecting basic rights.

councillor

Alejandra Bravo

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Hateful behaviour is unacceptable in Davenport and across Toronto. I have championed the Toronto For All public campaign combating public hate and discrimination. I supported new funding for 14 community-led grant projects tackling systematic racism, antisemitism, and discrimination against immigrants, and fostering community growth and belonging. Throughout my career, I have worked with community groups and non-profits fighting hate and advocating for the rights of marginalized people in our city, and will continue this critical work.

mayor

Darrell Brown

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto's strength is its diversity, and hateful or hostile behaviour aimed at newcomers or equity-deserving communities is an attack on that strength. Increase funding for community organizations doing frontline anti-hate and settlement work, strengthen coordination between police, schools, and community leaders, and ensure enforcement is consistent and visible. Support free speech but with protections so that places of worship, for example, are not left vulnerable. Designate areas for peaceful protest but prevent harassment.

mayor

Georgios Kalkounis

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would implement a coordinated, evidence-based safety, anti-hate and inclusion framework that strengthens prevention, improves rapid response, and ensures protection and respect for public and communities; with clear accountability, CPTED based design, strong partnerships, community based prevention and education. Priorities include unified response, standardized protocols, targeted supports, reporting and transparency. My operational standards, engineering, and multi stakeholder coordination experience supports effective, inclusive delivery.

mayor

Braeden Chow

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Honestly i think the community facing the most hate right now is the Jewish people. I would make sure they are protected and try to understand where this anti semitism comes from, then educate the people. That applies to every single group experiencing hate in Toronto. Hate isn’t welcome here and what unites us is stronger than what divides use. This is Toronto, Canada a place that is celebrated for its vast amount of diversity.

mayor

Jamie Atkinson

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

A free city is not a city without disagreement; it is a city where people can disagree without fear. I would protect freedom of belief, religion, identity and lawful expression while drawing a firm line at threats, intimidation, violence and unlawful discrimination. Freedom also carries responsibility: our public spaces should be safe, decent and welcoming, especially for children and families. Toronto’s strength is not that we are all alike, but that different people can live together with dignity, restraint and respect.

mayor

Robert Shusterman

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I really think we need more police officers out there and more special constables out there to regulate this kind of behavior. People will be more better behaved if they see a law enforcement person in front of them

mayor

Sandeep Srivastava

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize preventing hate, protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring every Torontonian feels safe and respected. City Hall should strengthen reporting & rapid-response partnerships with police, community organizations and affected communities; support education and prevention programs; protect community institutions and public spaces; and ensure hate incidents are addressed promptly. Toronto must be welcoming to newcomers and stand firmly against antisemitism, racism, Islamophobia and all forms of hate. Vote Srivastava for Mayor

mayor

Joshua Thompson

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Violent crime and hostile behaviour get enforcement, not lectures. Keep public spaces usable for everyone. Fiscal discipline and clear rules — do not grow a speech bureaucracy. Safety first so neighbours are not afraid to take the bus or walk home.

mayor

Amy Rosen

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

Toronto should be a city where people feel safe walking home at night, where families can enjoy parks without concern, where small businesses can thrive, and where public spaces belong to everyone. Toronto works best when everyone feels welcome, respected, and secure — be it in their houses of worship, their schools, their neighbourhoods or their homes. Existing laws will be enforced because safety and civility are not luxuries; they are the foundation of a great city.

mayor

Laura Dean

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

When a community is targeted, it matters that the Mayor shows up, listens, and says plainly that it was hate and it was wrong. I will make sure the City and the Toronto Police Service have a clear process for receiving reports of hateful and hostile behaviour, and use the data to direct enforcement and education. Hatred is the product of ignorance. Torontonians need more chances to connect and break down prejudice. And less rage-baiting from elected officials. Civility starts at City Hall.

mayor

Cory Deville

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would implement a zero tolerance policy for violence on the TTC reinforced by a security presence that was permanently affixed to key TTC routes during rush hour, and then retained in a patrolling orbit throughout operational hours.

mayor

Roberto Curto

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

One of the things I love most about Toronto is how many different communities call this city home. People whose cultures, religions or countries have histories of conflict elsewhere live beside one another here, and for the most part we do it remarkably well. We should remind ourselves of that more often. I would support community organizations and events that bring people together, while making sure communities targeted by hate have the resources and support to feel safe and look into strengthening safety grants for at risk communities.

mayor

Lyall Sanders

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

City Council needs to plan more events and activities that promote community togetherness. We need less "divisive" events. We are all here to have safe lives and support each other during foreign conflicts, not mak matters worse. A Unified voice will get more action than infighting does.

mayor

Martin Fraser

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

This is a complicated question. Targeted hate crimes against Torontonians/Canadians cannot and will not be tolerated. Immigration is another topic which is a federal issue that cannot be downloaded onto the province and then downloaded onto Toronto. Toronto will help all of its citizens. Toronto is one of the most diversified cities in the world as well as being one of the largest in North America. People who come to visit and enjoy this city will always be welcome and those who want to hurt Toronto could be asked to leave politely.

mayor

Habiba Desai

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would pair Free TTC with community partnerships, education, rapid reporting and appropriate responses to hate and harassment. Transit connects people to one another. Making it accessible can help ensure that newcomers, youth, seniors and families can participate in the civic and cultural life of Toronto. My approach is love over hate: protect people from harassment and violence while making it easier for everyone to participate in the life of our city.

mayor

Faisal Razi

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

This problem will be handled through education and large town halls where we will try to get people to know each other and spread the idea that we are not so different after all. Hateful behaviour is caused by lack of knowledge and ignorance of other people but when we break the ice and learn about other people and cultures we become less hostile and hateful. Education and knowledge is the key to this problem,

Candidate answers