Petition to Support the Toronto Caribbean Carnival:

We, the undersigned, call upon the City of Toronto, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to provide the Toronto Caribbean Carnival with the financial support it deserves, in recognition of its cultural, economic, and social impact.

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For over 50 years (since 1967), the Toronto Caribbean Carnival has been a key cultural event in our city and country, attracting millions of visitors and contributing significantly to the Canadian economy. This festival not only celebrates the heritage and creativity of Caribbean people and celebrates what is uniquely Canadian by fostering inclusivity, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and families.
 

Our Asks:
 

1. Immediate Emergency Funding of $2 million to cover the operational costs from the 2024 Carnival. Despite the incredible efforts of the executive team to reduce costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024, the carnival still faces a financial shortfall. The Carnival costs over $3 million to produce annually, yet receives less than $1 million from all three levels of government combined.
    

2. Annual Funding of $1.5 million from the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to support the core operations of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, ensuring its sustainability and continued growth as a National Cultural Institution.
    

3. Funding for a Cultural Centre dedicated to preserving and promoting Caribbean heritage in Toronto. This center would serve as a hub for education, cultural programming, and community events year-round, benefiting both the diaspora and the wider Canadian community.
    

4. Why This Matters:
    

• Economic Impact: The Toronto Caribbean Carnival generates over $400 million annually for the Ontario economy, supporting thousands of jobs and hundreds of small businesses. The majority of these businesses are Black, Brown, or Caribbean owned, making this event vital to the economic well-being of racialized communities.
   

• Tourism and Visibility: The Carnival brings in over 2 million visitors each year, making it the largest cultural event in Canada. With government support, we can elevate the Carnival’s international standing and attract even more visitors.
   

• Representation and Inclusion: Carnival is more than just a celebration. It stems from our fight for our emancipation and freedom from slavery and indentureship. It’s a powerful symbol of what our community can achieve. This event offers a platform to showcase Caribbean culture, while also standing as a beacon of inclusion, diversity, and respect. Government funding is not just financial support—it’s an acknowledgement of the value and contribution of Caribbean culture in Canada.
   

• Financial Prudence: Over the past two years, the executive team has demonstrated extraordinary financial responsibility, reducing the festival’s costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024. This frugality highlights the sacrifices made by the team and community, showcasing that the Carnival has done something extraordinary with the limited resources it receives.
   

• Cultural Legacy: We are asking for support not just for an event, but for an ecosystem of creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a lifeline for many who depend on its success.

 

Take Action: Sign this petition

By signing this petition, you are helping ensure that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival continues to thrive, benefiting not only the local community but all of Canada.
 

Let’s make sure that future generations continue to experience the magic, culture, and impact of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.
 

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