Members’ Statements
Dora Skeen
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It’s a pleasure to raise on behalf of my constituents in Scarborough–Guildwood. I would like to recognize an outstanding individual, Ms. Dora Skeen, born in 1910. She turned 110 in December. Migrating to Canada from Jamaica in 1980, she has lived in Scarborough ever since. A force of nature who still lives independently, Dora is a true inspiration to all of us. It gave me great pleasure to be present for Ms. Dora’s vaccination, as she received the COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at her home on March 16, from the Scarborough Health Network and the Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities. Ms. Dora is also an important example of how essential it is for all members of the community to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The fact that Dora is still able to live independently and spend time with her family at 110 years old is a real testament—following consistent guidelines has kept her safe. Vaccine hesitancy is an issue that for too many is deeply rooted in a history of racism, and this needs to be addressed. It is also an issue that is rooted in the spread of misinformation. I want to underline the fact that all hesitancy related to COVID-19 is a public health concern and impacts our pandemic response for the most vulnerable citizens. We should all take inspiration from Ms. Dora, who is in her 111th year, and make sure that this trusted and safe vaccine is given to all when they are offered it.
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