In 2019, there were a total of 3823 deaths from opioid overdoses in Canada, almost 1000 of which were in the province of British Columbia (Government of Canada, 2020). If drug prohibition was a successful means of controlling drug use within the population, these deaths may not have taken place. Research shows that the “war…

The prohibition of cannabis and other drugs in Canada began in 1908. Cannabis was legalized in Canada for personal use in 2018. In 110 years of anti-cannabis legislation, the government launched a campaign to stigmatize cannabis users with propaganda and false claims. Cannabis users and those involved in the production or sales of marijuana were…

I’m standing on the corner of Helmcken in the neon glow of Granville Street, looking to trade $100 of my birthday money for a fix. Out of respect for my family, I’ve taken the last two weeks of December off from getting high; after all, it was Christmas and I’m nothing if not thoughtful. The…

Wicked hands move with delight Swiftly and with ease I know it’s best that I don’t fight I drop down to my knees.  He spins me like a carousel Colours flying ‘round A sudden impact to my skull Vermillion on the ground  I don’t sob or move from here Spitting, he stomps away If I could somehow disappear I know I’d be okay  Shaking…