Indigenous-led coalition is taking action
to protect our parks.
Metrolinx plans to clear cut 1,485 trees in Pearen Park, Fergy Brown Park, Eglinton Flats and around the Humber River to build a 1.5km section of the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension (ECWE) as an elevated concrete structure running right through our parks. The City of Toronto could issue the first of three tree removal permits any day.
Indigenous youth and elders from ENAGB Indigenous Youth Agency, with support of many community allies, have erected a tipi in Pearen Park and are exercising their rights to hold a peaceful Sacred Fire and perform four-day Honouring Ceremonies for each one of the trees. Fire Keepers are keeping the Sacred Fire burning 24/7.
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This parkland is a sensitive ecosystem, wildlife corridor, migratory bird route and is home to Threatened and Endangered species. The naturalized urban forest is a flood and
erosion protector, natural cooler and sound barrier for people using the parks. The parks are used for many ceremonial, recreational, sport and social activities.
Metrolinx and the Ford Government need to pause work on the elevated section and support an Indigenous-led environmental assessment and consultation on how the line will be built. Metrolinx underestimated our community when they presented their plan as a done deal. Together we’re taking action because we believe we can have world-class transit and protect our parks now and for future generations.
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How can you get involved?
Attend Metrolinx’s Open House on March 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Learning Enrichment Foundation (116 Industry St.) and tell them our community deserves better!
Have you seen the yellow cloths around trees along Eglinton? Visit the tipi in Pearen Park and ask for a cloth to tie around a tree you and your family want to protect.
Email us to volunteer with the coalition. Whether you have 20 minutes or 2 hours a week to spare, you can help. stopthetrainsinourparks@gmail.com.
Support the Indigenous youth and elders by donating at enagb-iya.ca.
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