Episode 39: Backlash

[Cover image alt text: A crowd sits on folding chairs at VANDU [The Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users]. Garth Mullins stands in front of the crowd and points up at a TV screen with an image of Pierre Poilievre digging a grave for “harm redux” and “safe supply. “ Beside the image is large text that reads, “VANDU Emergency General Meeting. [photo: Alex de Boer])

A right wing backlash against harm reduction and safe supply is brewing in Canada. Garth Mullins and Sam Fenn tell the story of how we got here — and what needs to be done to fight back.

Credits:

Crackdown is produced on the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil Waututh Nations.  

Our editorial board is: Samona Marsh, Shelda Kastor, Jeff Louden, Dean Wilson, Laura Shaver, Reija Jean. And, rest in peace, Dave Murray, Greg Fresz and Chereece Keewatin.

This episode was conceptualized, written, and produced by Sam Fenn, Alex de Boer, Lisa Hale, and Garth Mullins.

Crackdown’s academic director is Ryan McNeil. 

Special thanks to Alex Betsos for research assistance.

The music in today’s episode was written and performed by James Ash, Sam Fenn and Garth Mullins.

If you like what we do, support us at patreon.com/crackdownpod.

Thanks for listening. Stay safe and keep six.