MPPs call out Michael Ford for ‘racist’ remarks toward Toronto youth

MPP Michael Ford is being asked to rescind a comment he made about youth in Toronto, with some opposition critics labelling the minister’s words as “hurtful” and “racist.”

NDP leader Marit Stiles took to Twitter on Wednesday morning and asked Ford to take back the remarks that were printed in a newsletter he issued to his constituents.

In the newsletter, Ford highlights community group Frontlines and the charitable work they do with youth in the city. A photo depicts Ford, MPP for York South – Weston, shaking hands with a young Black person.

Stiles’ tweet highlights a line where Ford says the group “will assist (youth) in the future to integrate into society,” clearly taking issue with the presumption that city youth would need integration into society.

“Words matter,” reads Stiles’ tweet. “This kind of language about our neighbours isn’t okay.”

She goes on to ask Ford to rescind his comments.

Words matter – and this kind of language about our neighbours isn't okay.

Making these comments as the Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism is especially hurtful.@MichaelFordTO, please rescind these comments. #onpoli

(via @FaisalAHassan) pic.twitter.com/9vUTeudya7

— Marit Stiles (@MaritStiles) March 22, 2023

The nephew of Premier Doug Ford, Michael Ford is also the Ontario Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism, in addition to sitting as a Toronto MPP.

Responding on Twitter, Ford acknowledged he should have phrased his comment differently, but stopped short of rescinding his words and reiterated his support for Frontlines as an organization.

“I see that different words should have been used,” Ford wrote. “My intention was to showcase their impactful work and the difference they make each and every day.”

Frontlines is a local organization based in Toronto’s Weston neighbourhood that aims to support young residents aged six to 29. The group provides homecooked meals, after school programs, and summer camps.

Stiles wasn’t alone in her criticism of Ford’s comments. Former York South – Weston MPP Faisal Hassan questioned what his successor meant by his remark.

“Apparently Michael Ford thinks frontlines helps youth integrate? What does he mean?” asked Hassan. “Very disturbing, offensive, and racist.”

This is not okay. "Integrate" suggests these outstanding youth are not already invaluable members of society which they are. Considering @MichaelFordTO portfolio this is troubling. What are you going to say next time Michael? "Assimilate?" Please consider impact of language. https://t.co/0oeLQa7uBC

— Dr. Jill Andrew, PhD (she/her) (@JILLSLASTWORD) March 21, 2023

NDP MPP Dr. Jill Andrew echoed Hassan’s sentiments, calling the comments “troubling” and asking Ford to better consider his choice of words.

“This is not okay,” says Andrew. “‘Integrate’ suggests these outstanding youth are not already invaluable members of society.”

The 28-year-old Ford was named Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism following his win in the provincial election last year. He was previously a Toronto city councillor, representing Etobicoke North from 2016 until he ran for MPP.