overdose crisis

B.C. requests drug decriminalization

Advocates welcome overdose crisis responses May 5 was the five-year anniversary of B.C. declaring the overdose crisis. This anniversary followed the deadliest of those five years, with 1 716 people…

“We can’t incarcerate ourselves out of this crisis”: Moms Stop the Harm holds rally for drug decriminalization

At the rally, representatives from MSTH emphasized the need for an evidence-based health care approach to B.C.'s overdose crisis — rather than criminalizing drug-users.

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…

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…

The opioid crisis is an emergency — it’s time for governments to treat it like one

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly proved that our federal, provincial, and municipal governments are able to act quickly and allot resources to a crisis, with the right amount of political…

EDITORIAL: The “costs” of the overdose crisis can never be recouped, class-action lawsuit or not

On Aug. 29, the B.C. government launched a class-action lawsuit against 40 manufacturers of opioid-based medications. Largely reminiscent of class-action lawsuits against tobacco companies in the 90s, B.C. Attorney-General David…