The YIMBY festival was founded by Christina Zeidler in 2006 as a result of her work with neighbourhood groups who were responding to widespread unchecked development in Toronto's Queen West Triangle. She realized that many neighbourhood groups were presumed to engage solely in antagonistic relationships that pitted them against city policy makers, and unfairly labeled them as being part of a NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) movement. YIMBY is about promoting the role of neigbourhood groups as a positive force for change, who seek developments and projects that enhance the quality of life of the community, and bring the vitality that meets local needs. Local residents know the most about the needs and challenges of their neighborhoods, and the festival stresses the importance of working with government staff and the development, business and institutional sectors to take charge of the planning process in their area.
Toronto has a rich history of civic engagement and community involvement. This one-day event invites community groups from across Toronto to turn the table on politicians and policy makers, to educate them and each other about the issues that face each community. This is an opportunity for neighbours to meet neighbours, residents to meet politicians and politicians to meet community groups in the spirit of people coming together for positive change.
ATTEND YIMBY! TORONTO
No RSVP necessary! Anyone is welcome to drop in anytime between 11:00 and 4:00. A kids' table will be provided for our youngest Torontonians.
Find directions to the Toronto Reference Library.
Host a table at YIMBY! TORONTO
Your group can make a difference. Last year YIMBY! TORONTO included over 45 associations and hundreds of visitors including policymakers and politicians who came to listen to YOU. It was so successful we had to find a larger venue!
Pre-registration is required, so apply for a spot now! The cost to register for a display table is $25 + HST per organization.
What it brings you:
- A broader awareness of your work to inform the public and policymakers about the issues that face your community. The event will be widely publicized and attended.
- New networks to share strategies with other community, neighbourhood and advocacy groups and associations.
- A relaxed, fun atmosphere to showcase your group.
To learn more, visit
YIMBY Toronto
