…or work for the OIPRD.

In the heart of Toronto, a harrowing story unraveled, casting a piercing light on the accountability of the Toronto Police Services (TPS) and the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD). In this deeply immersive account, I take you through a distressing incident that reveals not only the misconduct of one TPS officer but also the gaping flaws within the OIPRD, leaving me feeling marginalized, silenced, and determined to expose systemic issues.

Introduction: In the heart of Toronto, a city known for its diversity and vibrant communities, I found myself embroiled in an incident that exposed a deeply unsettling reality – the accountability crisis within the Toronto Police Services and the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD). This article is more than a personal account; it’s an unfiltered exploration of how these institutions, tasked with upholding the law and ensuring justice, have failed, leaving many victims in their wake.

The Preamble: Earlier this month, I became the victim in an incident involving a close friend. It didn’t take long for me to realize that the police’s response was, sadly, nothing out of the ordinary. What should have been treated as a mental health issue, given my friend’s condition, was instead subjected to the blunt instrument of criminalization, thanks to what appeared to be a reckless exercise of police discretion. It was a familiar narrative – one that we often hear but rarely delve into.

The First Call: A day later, the phone rang. An officer from the Toronto Police Services was on the line, Officer Hilton (#12243). She identified the incident as an “assault” and began outlining the steps I needed to follow for the police to proceed with pressing charges. She provided information on support services and updates on how my friend was being handled. But as the victim, my perspective was entirely different. I believed the incident should have been treated as a mental health crisis, not a criminal offense, given my friend’s struggle with BPD and other factors. What followed was an unsettling exchange. The officer seemed to dismiss my viewpoint, offering a condescending, patronizing tone and demonstrating a shocking lack of professionalism. I couldn’t fathom how a supposed source of support could conduct herself in such a manner.

Standing Up: In the face of her unprofessionalism, I mustered the courage to ask for an apology. Her response? A resounding refusal. Frustrated and indignant, I requested to speak with her supervisor, only to be met with further resistance. She directed me to the OIPRD, leaving me with her badge number and name, all before abruptly ending the call in an equally discourteous manner.

The Battle Begins: Fueled by anger and a determination to not endure such treatment, I turned to the OIPRD’s website to file a formal complaint. However, what I encountered next added an outrageous layer to this already disheartening situation. The complaint form came with a warning that perjury charges could be leveled if I were to provide false information. But here’s the kicker – the form demanded that I select one of only two options for a prefix before my name: MR. or MRS. For someone who identifies as non-binary, this was nothing short of a cruel paradox. It felt as if I had been boxed into a corner, compelled to commit perjury in order to seek justice.

Triple Injustice: Triply enraged, I filed the complaint, but I wasn’t content with merely submitting the form. I contacted the OIPRD, forcefully pointing out the discriminatory nature of their complaint form. I demanded a public apology, not just for myself but for the transgender and intersex communities who had been similarly affected. I insisted that they acknowledge the inherent problem and outline their steps to rectify the situation, ensuring it wouldn’t repeat.

The Letters: Just days later, I received not one but two letters from the OIPRD. The first letter, in a subtle but unmistakable tone, essentially said, “We do what we want.” It acknowledged the unprofessional demeanor of the police officer but contended that it didn’t warrant an investigation. To challenge this decision, it was implied, I’d have to go to court, with no actual information attached about the judicial review process.

The Second Letter: The second letter offered no apologies. It acknowledged the distress caused by the form’s lack of a non-binary prefix but brushed it off as unintentional. It claimed that the form had been rectified, even suggesting that it now allowed for “no prefix.” This was a false statement, and it effectively sidestepped the fundamental issue of discrimination against transgender and intersex individuals.

Community Consequences: The scars of their failings run deep within the community. The missing and missed report left our neighborhood reeling, revealing how they had Bruce MacArthur in custody multiple times before he was charged with a string of serial killings. Lives could have been saved if they had done their job, but the lack of acknowledgment and accountability perpetuates the cycle of negligence.

Conclusion: This narrative is a testament to the urgent need for change. Toronto Police Services and the OIPRD must be held accountable for their actions. My correspondence with David Miller, who agrees that the police are adept at evading responsibility, only strengthens my resolve. The time has come for action, as these two letters serve as undeniable evidence of their arrogance and disregard for the people they are supposed to protect and serve.

Letters from OIPRD and TPS:

Letter 1 from OIPRD:

“Dear Madison Charlton: Re: Public Complaint: Toronto Police Service OIPRD Complaint Number: E-20231002171S102488 The Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD) has reviewed your complaint and determined it to be a conduct complaint about Officer Hilton (#12243) of the Toronto Police Service (TPS) on October 2, 2023. In your complaint, you stated that Officer Hilton called you about an incident in which you were the victim of an assault. You alleged that Officer Hilton was rude, condescending, and did not answer your questions. You further stated that Officer Hilton refused to acknowledge or apologize for their rudeness. Section 60(4) of the Police Services Act (PSA) permits the Independent Police Review Director not to deal with a complaint if, in his opinion, having regard to all of the circumstances, dealing with the complaint is not in the public interest. The OIPRD expects police officers to conduct themselves in a professional manner when interacting with the public. We understand that you found Officer Hilton’s demeanour to be unprofessional during the phone call. Although it would have been ideal if the officer had adopted a more sympathetic and understanding tone, you did not describe any language on the part of the officer that could reasonably be considered profane, abusive, or insulting to the degree that it would rise to the level of misconduct under the PSA. Therefore, the Director has determined it would not be in the public interest to proceed with an investigation into your complaint. Please be advised that the Police Services Act, our governing legislation, does not provide for an appeal from the classification and screening of complaints conducted by the OIPRD. If you wish to challenge this decision, you may bring a judicial review application in the Divisional Court which is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice. Information about the judicial review process is attached for your information.”

Letter 2 from OIPRD:

“Dear Madison Charlton l Thank you for your email. We acknowledge that not having the non-binary prefix “Mx” on the OIPRD’s previous complaint form caused you distress. This was unintentional and the current form now has been corrected. Steps have been taken to prevent future complainants from having to choose between a female prefix, male prefix, or no prefix. As a result, the current and updated complaint form does not ask the complainant to select a prefix. This matter has been resolved and we thank you for bringing this to our attention. Sincerely,
Alexandra Alvarado Senior Case Manager/ Registrar I OIPRD www.oiprd.on.ca“

You be the judge.

So Modern Musician invite me to a “free” webinar purporting to be useful information that I can use to increase my reach as a musician. Okay, I’ll bite. I join the webinar after they persist and nag me to make sure I’ll be there, dangling the possibility of a 1-on-1 mentorship as a carrot of incentive. Once I get onto this zoom meeting, I quickly see that it’s simply a deceptive marketing tactic. And so I call them on it, and get booted off. Fortunately, they had invited me to their discord server prior to this and since other musicians who might not be as savvy or aware of misleading or deceptive marketing strategies being used on them, I chose to echo this experience for their benefit. Once doing so, I was responded to from someone at the company.

The exchange went as follows below. Now I know that I made a statement with the title of my post here, but I’m going to let you read the dialog below which is pasted verbatim from the resulting chat, and YOU decide. My conclusion is that I won’t touch Modern Musician with a ten foot pole because I feel that they are just yet another company trying to exploit artists or wannabe artists by leveraging an impossible dream. That’s knowingly deceptive for your own benefit, and to me that fits the category of evil. However, you are welcome to make your own judgement:

Madison (Matti) Charlton
Haha, I revealed the marketing tactic that MM was using on the people in the zoom meeting and they removed me.

The tactic you're referring to is often called a "free workshop" or "webinar" funnel, and it's a marketing strategy commonly used to attract potential customers and convert them into paying clients. Here's a breakdown of how this strategy typically works:

Attractive Promotion:
Marketers advertise a "free workshop" or "webinar" on platforms like social media, email newsletters, or websites. The promotion often highlights enticing benefits or outcomes participants can expect to gain from attending.

Landing Page and Registration:
Interested individuals are directed to a dedicated landing page where they can register for the free workshop. The landing page emphasizes the value and knowledge they'll receive during the event.

Opt-in Process:
To register, participants typically have to provide their contact information, such as their email address and possibly phone number, allowing the marketer to build a database of potential leads.

Confirmation and Reminder Emails:
After registration, participants receive confirmation emails with details about the event, including the date, time, and Zoom link. Reminder emails may also be sent closer to the event date to ensure attendance.

The Workshop/Webinar:
During the workshop or webinar, the marketer provides valuable content related to the advertised topic. They aim to engage and captivate the audience while subtly introducing the product or service they intend to sell.

Limited-Time Offer:
An exclusive, time-sensitive offer is presented to attendees, encouraging them to take advantage of a special deal, discount, or bonuses related to the product or service being promoted.

Call to Action (CTA):
Participants are urged to take action immediately by clicking a link to purchase the product or service, sign up for a consultation, or engage in some form of transaction.

Follow-Up:
After the workshop, the marketing team follows up with attendees through emails or phone calls, addressing any questions or concerns and encouraging them to make a purchase.

I only made it to "The Workshop/Webinar" before they removed me from the meeting. Guess they did not like their marketing tactic laid bare in front of their victims.

Don't get sucked in to the funnel, folks.

Scott Landes — Today at 5:03 PM
Just wanted to make a quick comment on this - every business uses marketing techniques, and Modern Musician is no different.  However, there is a big difference between companies that offer zero value vs the opposite.  We took a chance with Modern Musician many years ago and knew what we were stepping into.  I did take part in a free webinar and was impressed by what they talked about and what they offered (and I'm extremely pessimistic about most music business services)  After a few zoom calls with MM staff we signed up to their Gold Artist program back in 2021 and the systems that we put in place still work for us, on a daily basis.  The amount of growth we've experienced has been insane as well - 200% year after year.

If you think about it, any advertising you are exposed to is some form of a funnel, and it is a  proven method of getting the word out about any form of business.  If you provide real value, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it.  You can apply it to music, startups, grocery stores, fast food... the list is endless.  Going one step further, having the knowledge of how to implement funnels is extremely valuable for independent artists of any types - within the current economy it is a great way to establish a small business without a ton of costs (you can set up a free website, free email list, etc - I've even been able to partner up with advanced tech analytics platforms that charge > $100-200 / month for free based on the fact that we are a small business. 

Scott Landes — Today at 5:15 PM
And yes, your art / band / passion can be considered a small business - especially if you're serious about making it into a lifetime career, which I'm sure that is what a lot of people here want to do.  There are so many great tools and incredible knowledge from other business sectors just waiting for us to take advantage of to make our dreams a reality.

Could we have figured this stuff out by ourselves? Sure.  is it different for every person/artist?  Definitely.  It works for us, and we're glad we made the investment as it probably saved us literally years of time figuring this all out on our own.

Madison (Matti) Charlton — Today at 10:52 PM
Scott, your defense of Modern Musician's marketing tactics doesn't negate the fact that the 'free workshop' or 'webinar' funnel can be manipulative and misleading. It's not about whether businesses use marketing strategies—it's about ethics and honesty.

Sure, every business employs marketing techniques, but not every business uses them ethically. The problem lies in the deliberate deception involved in promising a 'free' event, only to bombard attendees with sales pitches during the workshop.

Transparency and honesty are vital in marketing. If Modern Musician truly offers valuable services, why not be straightforward about it from the beginning? Why hide behind the facade of a 'free' event, leading artists to believe it's purely educational?

Exploiting artists under the guise of helping them grow is despicable. It preys on the dreams and aspirations of struggling artists who are desperately seeking genuine guidance. The 'end justifies the means' mindset in marketing is a toxic attitude, and it's harmful to the very community you claim to support.

Let's advocate for fair, transparent, and ethical marketing practices that genuinely benefit artists without resorting to deceptive tactics. Artists deserve better than to be pawns in a manipulative sales game. 

Madison (Matti) Charlton — Today at 11:01 PM
The evidence overwhelmingly points to the impossibility of obtaining a meaningful return on investment (ROI) in the realm of music services aimed at musicians. The music industry is entrenched in an insurmountable level of saturation, continuously compounded by an influx of new artists and content.

Digital platforms and affordable recording technologies have democratized music production and distribution, but they have also contributed to an overwhelming oversupply of music across various platforms. The proliferation of content has diluted the value of individual offerings, making it almost unattainable for musicians to garner significant returns from their musical endeavors.

Even though streaming platforms have become a prevalent means of music consumption, the revenue generated per stream is negligible. The sheer volume of music available on these platforms has made it nearly impossible for musicians to derive substantial income through conventional streaming models.

The DIY culture, propelled by the ease of access to recording equipment and online resources, has led to an inundation of independent artists in the market. This oversaturation amplifies competition, making it exceptionally difficult for emerging artists to break through and attain profitability.

Live music performances, traditionally a crucial revenue stream, have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The resultant scarcity of gig opportunities has heightened competition among musicians, exacerbating the challenges of making a living through their craft.

Moreover, the evolving landscape has witnessed a shift in consumer behavior, with musicians themselves becoming a significant consumer base for services aimed at enhancing their own careers. This shift not only underscores the challenges presented by a market filled with musicians seeking support but also highlights the unrealistic expectations surrounding ROI in this saturated market.

Prominent industry experts and reputable publications consistently emphasize the futility of pursuing substantial ROI in this saturated market, reiterating the implausibility of achieving meaningful returns in the current music services sector targeting musicians.

In unequivocal terms, the evidence substantiates the claim that securing a satisfactory return on investment within the music services sector, specifically tailored to musicians, has transitioned from being extremely difficult to outright impossible. The market saturation, evolving revenue models, and the burgeoning population of musicians have collectively rendered the traditional approaches to achieving ROI entirely unviable. Any hope of navigating this landscape profitably now necessitates innovative strategies and diversified revenue streams that transcend the conventional confines of music services.

Feel free to present any independent and unbiased metrics, data, or concrete proof that contradicts the assertion of the insurmountable challenge of obtaining a meaningful return on investment (ROI) within the music services sector, specifically targeted at musicians, in the current saturated market.

Scott Landes — Today at 11:30 PM
Hey there! I appreciate the amount of research you put into your argument and can tell you have done a lot of due diligence.  As an artist I’ve  been manipulated and taken advantage of a countless amount of times.. I’m currently out on tour right now so don’t have much time nor energy to get into a full argument with you.  With that said, all I can say is that we had a great experience… but I feel that for anything especially for artists, your mileage may vary and what works for one person may not work for another.  But I can definitely vouch for Modern Musician.

Madison (Matti) Charlton — Today at 11:45 PM
Your response, Scott, adeptly skirts around the core issue at hand. By leaning on your busy touring schedule, you successfully evade addressing the fundamental concerns regarding Modern Musician's ethical and effective practices.

1. Shallow Recognition with No Substance:
While you briefly acknowledge the effort invested in presenting the argument, your response fails to dig deep into the critical issues, providing no substantial insights.

2. Excessive Reliance on Personal Anecdote:
Your disproportionate emphasis on your positive personal experience with Modern Musician redirects the focus toward individual encounters, deliberately averting a broader exploration of the service's overall ethical standing.

3. Selective Use of the "Variation" Card:
While it's accurate that experiences may vary from person to person, your repetitive reference to this fact conveniently shifts the conversation away from addressing the overarching ethical concerns pertinent to Modern Musician's practices.

4. Strategic Invoking of Time Constraints:
Leaning heavily on your busy touring schedule and associated limitations, you deftly sidestep a more comprehensive discussion. This tactical evasion effectively sidelines the necessity for a rigorous exploration of the ethical dimensions of Modern Musician.

Your response falls short in acknowledging a critical truth: Modern Musician should not rely on a false narrative of a "free" webinar and deceptive promises of valuable teachings that are ultimately dependent on paid tools. If the value truly exists, why resort to such deceptive tactics? Can you, at the very least, acknowledge the manipulative approach Modern Musician employed to drive conversions?

At this point I was banned. So don’t trust Modern Musician for anything: from the background graphic of the huge crowd of people at a concert, to their deceptive marketing tactics, this company knows that they are selling an impossible dream. They don’t have the integrity to admit their deceptive marketing tactics. And if you confront them about it, they avoid discussing the issue or outright censor you.

Introduction

In today’s diverse and inclusive world, it is important to celebrate the unique experiences and identities within the LGBTQ+ community. One aspect of gay culture that has existed for decades is the phenomenon of cruising, where individuals connect with like-minded people in specific locations. While it is essential to approach this topic with respect, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance is equally important. In this article, we will explore how gay men can find cruising sites around the world, emphasizing safety, consent, and the importance of fostering an inclusive community.

Understanding Cruising

Cruising is a practice that has been an integral part of the gay community for decades. It has served as a means for gay men to explore their sexuality, connect with like-minded individuals, and find a sense of belonging in a world that has not always been accepting. To truly understand cruising, it’s important to delve into its historical and cultural significance, as well as explore the various types of cruising sites that exist.

Historical Context: Cruising has roots that date back to a time when homosexuality was heavily stigmatized and criminalized. In the mid-20th century, when LGBTQ+ rights were virtually nonexistent, finding places where gay men could meet discreetly became a necessity. These places, often public parks, public restrooms, or certain neighborhoods, became known as cruising sites. These locations provided a semblance of safety and anonymity for individuals seeking connections, friendships, or casual encounters.

Cultural Significance: Cruising sites have played a pivotal role in shaping gay culture, fostering a sense of community, and providing spaces for sexual exploration. For many, these sites offered a lifeline, a place where they could express their desires and connect with others who shared similar experiences. The existence of cruising sites represented a form of resistance and resilience in the face of societal oppression. It was a way for gay men to reclaim their sexuality and assert their identity, even in an environment that often deemed their desires as taboo.

Types of Cruising Sites: Cruising sites can vary in nature and can be found in different locations around the world. While traditional outdoor spaces like parks, beaches, and restrooms continue to be associated with cruising, it is important to note that the dynamics and popularity of these sites have evolved over time. Additionally, designated LGBTQ+ establishments such as bars, clubs, saunas, and even specific sections of cities or neighborhoods can serve as cruising sites.

Outdoor Cruising Sites: Outdoor cruising sites are often public spaces where gay men gather to meet and engage in social or sexual encounters. Parks, forests, secluded beaches, and public restrooms have historically been popular outdoor cruising locations. These spaces provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with others who share their interests and desires. However, it’s essential to remember that engaging in sexual activities in public spaces may be subject to legal restrictions and social norms, and individuals should exercise caution and respect local laws and regulations.

Establishments as Cruising Sites: In addition to outdoor spaces, certain establishments within the LGBTQ+ community have become known as cruising sites. Bars, clubs, saunas, and bathhouses often provide environments where individuals can socialize, flirt, and potentially engage in sexual encounters. These establishments typically have designated areas or practices that facilitate casual connections between patrons. It’s important to note that these spaces may have their own specific rules and guidelines, and respecting the boundaries and consent of others is paramount.

Changing Dynamics: The advent of technology and the rise of dating apps have undoubtedly influenced the dynamics of cruising. While physical cruising sites still exist, the popularity and prevalence of online platforms have transformed the way gay men connect with one another. Dating apps and websites provide virtual spaces where individuals can express their desires and seek like-minded individuals. This shift has both positive and negative implications, offering convenience and broader access while also potentially diminishing the traditional cruising experience.

Research and Local Knowledge

Before embarking on any cruising adventure, it is crucial to conduct thorough research. Utilize online resources, LGBTQ+ forums, and community websites to gather information about specific cruising sites in your desired location. However, remember that not all information available online may be accurate or up-to-date, so cross-referencing multiple sources is advisable. Additionally, reach out to local LGBTQ+ organizations or individuals for recommendations and insights, as they can provide valuable guidance.

Safety First

Safety should be a top priority when engaging in any activities, including cruising. Here are a few essential safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Trust your instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, it is essential to listen to your instincts and remove yourself from it.
2. Be aware of your surroundings: Familiarize yourself with the area, noting escape routes, and staying vigilant. Avoid isolated locations that may pose potential risks.
3. Communicate boundaries: Consent and communication are crucial. Establish clear boundaries and respect those of others. Remember that consent is an ongoing process that can be withdrawn at any time.
4. Safer sex practices: Always practice safer sex by using condoms and other barrier methods to protect yourself and your partners from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
5. Share your plans: Inform a trusted friend about your cruising plans, including the location and approximate duration. Regularly check in with them to ensure your safety.

Community and Respect

Cruising sites have historically been places where LGBTQ+ individuals can find a sense of belonging and connection. As visitors, it is important to respect the spaces and the people who frequent them. Treat fellow cruisers with dignity, kindness, and respect, regardless of age, race, or body type. By fostering a supportive and inclusive community, we can contribute to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Changing Landscapes

It’s worth noting that the landscapes of cruising sites have evolved over time. Increased societal acceptance, the rise of dating apps, and the transformation of LGBTQ+ spaces mean that the popularity and dynamics of cruising have changed. While some traditional cruising sites continue to exist, others may have shifted or become less prominent. Therefore, staying informed and adaptable is crucial.