Part 2 of the Panel Discussion Highlights Transformative Approaches to Drug Policy

In October 2021, the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition in partnership with the John Howard Society, Indigenous Harm Reduction Network, and the Gilbert Centre, conducted a two-day community dialogue. The discussion focused on the effects of drug criminalization policies on health, human rights, the toxic drug supply, and the ongoing drug poisoning crisis.

A report was published in April this year, outlining five key recommendations. We hosted a panel discussion involving Denise Baldwin, Community Engagement and Education Coordinator at Canadian Drug Policy Coalition, Beeta Senedjani, Dialogues Program Coordinator, at Canadian Drug Policy Coalition and Sarah Tilley, Harm Reduction Program Manager at Gilbert Centre.

The panel discussion tackled key aspects of drug policy, focusing on three critical areas: policing, hiring practices, and education. Experts called for minimizing police involvement with drug users, emphasizing the need for professionals trained in social work to provide comprehensive support. The panel also emphasized the value of hiring individuals with lived experiences, recognizing their unique insights and problem-solving abilities. In addition, advocates stressed the importance of promoting harm reduction education to combat stigma and create a compassionate community. The panel discussion aimed to drive transformative change in drug policy, prioritizing empathy, inclusivity, and informed decision-making.