BY: HODARI REUBEN CLARKE
On April 19th and 20th, Residents living in the Grandravine and Sentinel area were saddened to see the trees connected to their four-story apartment building being cut down. Residents were informed through a letter - days before the trees were taken down by the contractors (hired by Wela Holdings/Berkeley Property with the approval of the City of Toronto). Some of the trees that were removed were said to be growing in a way that was damaging the structure of the building. Others were removed because they were said to be damaged.
Trees and nature are a tremendous support for our ecosystem, our communities, and our health. A study published by nature.com titled “Neighborhood greenspace and health in a large urban center” has found that living close to green spaces with a lot of trees has a positive impact on several health factors including; 1) better health perception 2) improved cardio-metabolic functioning.
Community resident, Louise Weniger was deeply impacted by the loss of these trees. She took on a leadership role and spoke with several of her neighbours to discuss and remember all the ways these trees helped improved their social lives and mental health. The results of these conversations can be read in the poem published below.
This is an important reminder that we as a community need to protect and honour our green spaces when possible. We at the Downsview Advocate have been inspired by the outpouring of respect and appreciation that this community has for nature and our trees.
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We loved those trees outside our window.
We want people to know.
We loved those trees outside our window.
We want people to know.
Nature is important to people.
Nature helps us when we struggle.
Nature keeps us company,
Even a single tree creates community.
Even on our balconies
We heard symphonies of birds.
We got to look Blue jays, Cardinals and Woodpeckers in the eye.
Outside our windows, we watched caterpillars transform into butterflies.
Our balconies are lonely without you, we will always remember your cool green shade.
They said you had to go, but we really wished you’d stay.
We miss you.
We love you.
LOUISE WENIGER WITH HODARI CLARKE