Re: 鈥淐ampers get reprieve at Goldstream,鈥� Sept. 21.
The repeated displacement of Camp Namegans by scores of police contribute to the stigmatization, criminalization and fear of those seeking shelter in tent cities.
When the camp moved to Goldstream campground after being dislocated three times in less than a week, Langford鈥檚 mayor responded by listing alleged theft, drug use and trespassing within the first day and the Ministry of Environment ordered campers to leave by 11 a.m. on Thursday, but then ordered a last-minute reprieve.
Such actions serve to dehumanize a vulnerable population and incite fear. The anger of local residents at the rally on Thursday was palpable.
What if the mayor and the residents had brought a meal instead? An opportunity was missed by our municipal and provincial governments to model empathy and respect and issue a reminder that homelessness is a complex issue that requires a range of solutions and is the responsibility of all of us.
Helene Demers
Victoria
