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Vancouver Island Crisis Society launches suicide bereavement programs island-wide

As part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, the Vancouver Island Crisis Society (VICS) is expanding their Suicide Bereavement Support program island-wide via Zoom.

Victoria City Council defers full funding of equity, diversity, and inclusion office

Despite deferring the creation of an equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) office due to financial difficulties related to COVID-19, Victoria City Council has approved hiring for two EDI-related positions.

Three months later, Chantel Moore’s family continues to seek justice

Surrounded by friends and supporters, Chantel Moore’s family gathered once again on the steps on the B.C. Legislature to seek justice and advocate for replacing armed police officers with trauma-informed…

Over 400 people join online candlelit vigil for International Overdose Awareness Day

For those that have lost loved ones to the overdose crisis, the rising number of overdose deaths represent more than just figures on charts.  At a candlelit vigil on August…

Bastion Square “More Justice More Peace” mural protected by a protest after drawing complaints from VicPD over “ACAB” slogan

ACAB, “All Cops Are Bastards,” alludes to the systemic nature of police violence After collaborating with Black Lives Matter (BLM) activists on a mural reading “More Justice, More Peace,” city…

Life in a piece of fabric: people living in Beacon Hill Park relocate, face harassment

Injunction by City of Victoria sees campers move to more exposed locations of Beacon Hill Park and shines a light on the everyday hardships facing Victoria’s street community On July…

Demonstrators gather downtown to call for decriminalization and safe supply as overdose deaths continue to rise in B.C.

On July 31, amid chants of “decrim now,” cowbells, and cars honking in support, over 50 supporters gathered in front of the Ministry of Health office to raise awareness for…

Health officials’ portraits vandalized on Government St.

The colourful portraits that line Government Street have been vandalized with racial slurs, swastikas, and other markings.

Victoria Native Friendship seasonal shelter closure sheds light on Indigenous homelessness amid surge of community support

On July 1, the Victoria Native Friendship Centre’s seasonal shelter was forced to close — sending visitors back onto the street, including eight to 10 regular guests.