drug stigma

Decriminalization isn’t enough — drug stigma needs to go

Content warning: mentions of drug use and addiction. BC’s new drug decriminalization laws are a considerable step forward. While some may view this change as too “liberal,” let’s clarify that decriminalization differs from legalization. Essentially, it exempts the province of British Columbia from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. This exemption helps reduce the barriers that prevent people from accessing lifesaving medical support and services associated with using the included drugs, such as opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA. That said, the BC government states decriminalization doesn’t mean these drugs will be permitted for commercial sale. Most concerns over these new…

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