Community Conversation on Road Safety Held in Toronto by Kidy Foundation
The Kidy Foundation hosted a community conversation on road safety, targeting newcomer communities, specifically Ethiopian and Eritrean populations in Toronto.
The event, led by the foundation’s founder and president, Elisabet kifle provided a platform to exchange ideas and address the unique road safety challenges faced by these communities.
A representative from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation emphasized the importance of culturally responsive awareness interventions. Topics such as seat belt use, car seat safety, and the dangers of driving under the influence were discussed, along with available funding and resources for community initiatives. The ministry representative also highlighted the openness to collaboration with local organizations to improve road safety outcomes.
Participants raised concerns about limited awareness among newcomers regarding road safety regulations and practices in Canada. Calls for enhanced collaboration between community groups and governmental bodies were echoed. Additionally, a Toronto Police representative assured the police force’s readiness to support these initiatives by providing educational resources and increasing community engagement.
Road safety has been a growing concern in Ontario.
In 2023, Ontario reported over 30,000 traffic collisions, resulting in 700 fatalities and 2,500 severe injuries. Nearly 40% of fatal collisions involved impaired driving, while another 15% stemmed from seat belt non-compliance.
