Tory's loss is Ontario's loss

By THE CARIBBEAN CAMERA

When John Tory first stepped into politics in 2003, everyone in Toronto watched him suspiciously.

Why would a successful lawyer and front man for communications giant Rogers, whose entire life has been way above that of the ordinary folk, want to serve us? Was his bid an effort to turn the inner workings of Canada's largest city over to the interests of big business?

That suspicion, alas, is probably what did Tory in in almost every election he has contested since. And it's a pity, because John Tory the politician turned out to be quite a decent man, a rare entity in the world of politics.

Those who got to know him during the five years since that mayoral election will attest to the fact that Tory rose head and shoulders above most politicians who try to reach out to us simply to secure our vote.

He was real in his passion for caring about all of Ontario's residents, and made every effort to reach out across social, ethnic, religious and cultural barriers in a genuine effort to get to know the people he wanted to serve.

Tory did not just pay lip-service to these communities, but really cared about the issues facing Ontarians, whatever their backgrounds.

He was a welcome guest at almost every Hindu temple, Islamic mosque and other churches, where he involved himself deeply so he could truly understand these communities.

Not just that, but Tory also attached himself to worthy causes in our community, such as Camp Jumoke and The Caribbean Children Foundation, and used every opportunity he had to tell the wider community about the work these groups do.

At no time, however, did it seem like he was campaigning.

He once told The Camera, during his mayoral race, what he cherished most about his decision to enter politics was the opportunity it offered him to meet people and experience cultures he otherwise would not have.

We believe him.

This is why we're so sad to see him bow out of politics.

To see such a decent man walk away from politics is something every Ontarian should regret.

God knows, we don't have enough of them as it is.

To let him go without a thank you will be a dereliction of our duty.

So thanks, Mr Tory.

Your time in the arena was truly appreciated.

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