Briefing on the Federal Electoral District of Parkdale—High Park, Canada

Parkdale—High Park is a federal electoral district located in Ontario, Canada. It encompasses portions of the city of Toronto, particularly the neighbourhoods of Parkdale, High Park, Roncesvalles, and Swansea. The district is known for its beautiful parks, proud multicultural heritage, and bustling arts scene.

Population Centres

The district of Parkdale—High Park includes several significant population centres. These include:

• Parkdale: Parkdale is a historically diverse neighbourhood that has seen significant gentrification in recent years. It is known for its eclectic mix of trendy boutiques, cafés, and vintage shops.

• High Park: High Park is a large park in the district that features walking trails, gardens, and a zoo. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

• Roncesvalles: Roncesvalles is a quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood that is home to many quaint bakeries and cafés. It also hosts the annual Roncesvalles Polish Festival.

• Swansea: Swansea is a neighbourhood located near Lake Ontario that is known for its quiet streets, beautiful parks, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 and 2022, there have been several key news events and issues specific to Parkdale—High Park. These include:

• The ongoing struggle for affordable housing: Parkdale—High Park is an area that has traditionally been home to many low-income families and individuals. However, as the neighbourhoods have become more gentrified, finding affordable housing has become a significant challenge.

• Public safety concerns: In recent years, there have been concerns about public safety in the district. In particular, there have been calls for increased funding for police services and greater efforts to combat gun violence.

• COVID-19 pandemic: As with the rest of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the residents of Parkdale—High Park. The economic shutdowns and restrictions have caused significant hardship for many families and businesses in the area.

Economy

Parkdale—High Park is home to several major employers and key industries. These include:

• The film and television industry: Toronto is a popular filming location for television shows and movies. As a result, there are many production companies and studios located in the district.

• The tech industry: Toronto is a hub for technology companies, and Parkdale—High Park is home to several startups and tech firms.

• The service industry: The district is home to a thriving service industry, including many restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Recent events that have had a significant impact on the district's economy include the COVID-19 pandemic and the closure of many businesses as a result.

Important Landmarks

Parkdale—High Park is home to several important landmarks and attractions. These include:

• High Park: High Park is a large park in the district that features walking trails, gardens, and a zoo. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

• The Revue Cinema: The Revue Cinema is a historic cinema that has been in operation since 1912. It is known for showing classic and independent films.

• The Gardiner Museum: The Gardiner Museum is a ceramics museum that features an extensive collection of pottery and porcelain.

Arts and Culture

The district of Parkdale—High Park has a vibrant arts and culture scene. Some of the major cultural events and institutions in the area include:

• The Parkdale Film + Video Showcase: This annual event features the work of local filmmakers and video artists.

• The Roncesvalles Polish Festival: This festival celebrates the Polish heritage of the Roncesvalles neighbourhood with food, music, and crafts.

• The High Park Theatre Festival: This outdoor theatre festival takes place every summer in High Park.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, the major economic and social issues in Parkdale—High Park included affordable housing, access to healthcare, climate change, and job creation.

Community Organizations

Parkdale—High Park is home to several important economic and social community organizations, including:

• Parkdale Community Legal Services: This organization provides free legal services to low-income residents of the area.

• The Parkdale Activity-Recreation Centre: This community centre provides programs and services for children, youth, and seniors.

• The High Park Nature Centre: This environmental education centre offers nature-based programs and activities for children and families.

• The Friends of High Park Zoo: This volunteer organization supports the High Park Zoo through fundraising and advocacy.

• The Roncesvalles Village BIA: This business improvement association works to support and promote local businesses in the Roncesvalles neighbourhood.

Multicultural Groups

Parkdale—High Park is known for its proud multicultural heritage. Some of the most significant cultural demographic segments in the district include Portuguese, Polish, Tibetan, and Ukrainian communities.

Overall, Parkdale—High Park is a diverse and vibrant community that is home to a wide range of important landmarks, community organizations, and cultural institutions. Its ongoing struggles with affordable housing, public safety, and economic recovery make it a unique and dynamic place to visit and live in.