I didn’t want to write about this topic because it deeply upsets me for many reasons. I am tired of the senseless violence that erupts at what are supposed to be “fun” events. If you’re from Toronto, I’m sure you heard about the tragic stabbing at Woodbine mall in Rexdale.

The so-called “ghetto” area where a young man lost his life outside at a music event, actually looks like this:

I took the first two photos yesterday, and the day before yesterday. I wanted to show the yearly circus that they are setting up, and the way the parking lot usually looks on a regular day. The last photo is of a Cuban band that comes every year and performs fantastic live music inside of the mall. I always have a chat with them, as they are very friendly.

I reside near by, so I do the majority of my shopping there. The environment can be hectic and annoying at times, because this mall is famous for the indoor “Fantasy Fair”, Ontario’s largest amusement Park. The mall is usually packed with families and small children, and you will often hear kiddie show music as you enter. On a weekend there may even be a dog or magic show. There are (cultural)music festivals/concerts held inside and outside the mall every year. I have chosen not to attend any of the events/ concerts but I do enjoy the music from afar. I’m not one for large crowds, especially at music events. I have experienced being caught up in the typical chaos that tends to happen, a fight, a stabbing, or gunshots. It’s sad to say that I’m a pretty fearless person, but I do not trust these events because I know some in attendance are not there to have fun. There will always be the ones who come to find a person they have “beef” with or to simply cause trouble. This is the norm now and it is not normal to me. I had just walked home from the mall after doing a little shopping. Hours later I received that text and wasn’t that surprised. My friend texted me that there was a “shoot out” and “I will never. Ever. In my life do that s*** again.” I was very disappointed and literally shook my head. Ironically hours before, I had just had spoke with a few girls who were going to the festival. I asked them who was playing. They said that they did not know and we all laughed because none of us did. They said that they were just “going”, and I told them to have a good time as I walked away. I guarantee they did not expect a man to die.

I read about this online, and many blame the location of this year’s festival on the violence, which is absolutely absurd. I heard the story from my friend who witnessed the whole incident, and actually saw the young man injured and bleeding out. She said that security wasn’t very good, and this would’ve happened happened regardless of the location. I agree. SMH.

I will continue in my next blog.

Good Evening 🙂

Love&Respect,

Dawn Lovely

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