The targeting of people who use drugs is often used as a tool to gentrify and push out people who have historically lived in their neighbourhoods. Labeling all poor people, homelesss people, people who access shelters and methadone clinics, as "addicits" and "criminals" as a way to drum up fear. Folks are now meant to feel unwanted and are pushed out of the "changing" neighbourhood. Their homes, services and the places they congregate, torn down, "redeveloped", pushed, policed and priced out.

WE have seen an increase in public battles of politicians, home owners, BIAs and residents associations being alarmist and organizing against spaces people need. Spaces like shelters, methadone clinics, social housing, rooming houses, and social spaces where poor people congregate; like bars, coffee shops and parks. People are being pushed out of their neighborhoods and often their new neighbours feel they can dictate membership in to them. This event is about the many people who live in poverty, who use drugs or don't use drugs who have a right to live here, free from stigma and discrimination.

Yes in our backyards!!

We will be discussing the impact of gentrification, the targeting of drug users and how we can combat the not in my backyard mentality, organize and discuss strategies that have worked to save these contested spaces.

Speakers and Discussion.

TTC will be available, this space is wheelchair accessible.

For more info email thralliance@gmail.com