Dear Editor,
Re: "Raucous Richmond meeting ends in vote to explore safe consumption site"
I want to take this opportunity to express my thoughts and support for those who are apprehensive to speak: the most vulnerable members of our community and those families that will sadly mourn the loss of their loved one for a lifetime.
I would also like to express my contempt over the unacceptable display of incivility, intimidation and misrepresentation of facts regarding the motion for a Supervised Consumption Site in Richmond. Some members of our community, including elected officials, have taken the “ostrich policy” approach on this contentious yet critical public policy.
This has been exacerbated by politicians and others using the manipulation of tensions for political gain without considering the damaging consequences for society as a whole.
Further, they are dangerously dividing our pluralistic society based on ethnicity at a time when it is essential that we promote unity and inclusivity.
This practice of politics of discord can lead to discrimination, violence and the propagation of harmful stereotypes. It can also create a sense of division and hostility among different groups, making it difficult to achieve social cohesion and progress.
We need only to look south to our American neighbours to see the consequences of politics of division.
We should promote unity and inclusivity so we can create a more harmonious and equitable society for everyone.
Our Richmond is a place where residents hold genuine, mutual respect for one another and have a strong commitment to where they live.
It is where I have lived for almost six decades and where our beloved mother raised her four children on her own while ensuring we did what was right, not what was popular.
Richmond will continue to be my home regardless of the vile correspondence, threats and intimidation tactics directed towards my family, or the vitriolic remarks aimed at me because I stand up for what I believe is the correct path.
Kash Heed
Richmond city councillor
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