By Kofi Hope, Dan Silver, Nahomi Amberber, Adwoa Afful, Yvonne Daoleuxay, and Umair Majid
February 2022
Community Voices delves into Toronto’s socio-economic divide, spotlighting disparities between the city’s affluent core and its inner suburbs. Despite the vibrant and diverse nature of these post-war neighbourhoods, issues persist due to historical underinvestment, resulting in lower income levels, inadequate transit access, and limited city services. To understand residents’ perspectives, investigators conducted door-to-door surveys, which revealed overarching priorities shared by residents: safety, accessible transportation, quality neighbourhood services, diverse communities, and affordable housing—critical components linked to various social determinants of health.
Moreover, findings suggest that residents perceive local government as a service provider rather than through a political lens, yet there’s widespread distrust in municipal governance. Many residents express the need for more visible local leadership and suspect that underinvestment might stem from prevailing stigma and stereotypes. Ultimately, the report highlights the necessity for nuanced understanding and tailored policies to address the diverse perspectives within these communities, especially when aiming to improve the social determinants of health in Toronto’s inner suburbs.
Complementing the report, researchers have launched a website to organize and disseminate its findings to audiences beyond academia. Through a blend of visual and written elements, the website offers policymakers a clearer grasp of the issues, enables community engagement, and provides a valuable resource for academics seeking a model for similar studies.
