Dr. Kennedy Stewart, former Mayor of Vancouver and renowned political scientist, has released a riveting book titled "Decrim: How We Decriminalized Drugs in British Columbia." This insider's account delves into the historic progress and life-changing policy change aimed at addressing the devastating opioid crisis in British Columbia.
Canada has been dealing with an unprecedented opioid crisis, and British Columbia declared a public health emergency in 2016. Since then, over 9,400 lives have been lost to drug poisoning in the province, equating to an average of six lives per day. Shockingly, nearly 1,500 apparent opioid-related deaths occurred in the first eight months of 2022 alone.
"Decrim" chronicles the journey toward change, highlighting the groundbreaking shift that began on January 31, 2023. This marked the commencement of a three-year trial period for decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of hard drugs in British Columbia. This move is revolutionizing Canada's approach to drug use.
In this gripping story, Dr. Kennedy Stewart provides an insider's perspective on the challenges those who championed this policy change face. He candidly discusses the personal and political sacrifices made in his bid for mayoral re-election, all to pursue a more humane approach to the overdose crisis.
By ending the "war on drugs" and recognizing the overdose crisis as a public health issue, this book underscores the potential to reduce the stigma associated with substance use, increase access to essential health services, and mitigate the harms linked to drug-related criminalization in British Columbia.
The book has already taken the market by storm, with early readers praising the author’s ability to present a thought-provoking book. - Susan Sampert of the Winnipeg Free Press calls Decrim an excellent treatise on policy-making…Compassionate and humble without being too morose about an incredibly difficult topic.” Mutsumi Takahashi of CTV News Montreal says, “A very, very interesting and informative book.”
About the Author:
Dr. Kennedy Stewart is a professor of public policy, former Member of Parliament, and former Mayor of Vancouver. His vast experience and expertise uniquely qualify him to provide insight into the complicated issues surrounding drug policy and public health.
"Decrim: How We Decriminalized Drugs in British Columbia" is now available for purchase at major bookstores and on Amazon.ca and Amazon.com
Media Contact
Company Name: 'Amazon Audiobook Publishing'
Contact Person: Kennedy Stewart
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: www.amazon.com/dp/BOCGK635QJ
