The past and present in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

This is the second in the series, “Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside: Past and Present.” Libby Davies, former Vancouver city councillor and former NDP MP for the riding in which the Downtown Eastside is located, discusses the past and the present of the community.

Davies recalls the impact of activist and poet Bud Osborn and reflects upon the struggle to establish Insite, Canada’s first safe injection site. She goes on to discuss the impact of the ’90s austerity budget — and the resulting challenges still to be addressed.

Watch the full series here.

Jase Tanner has worked in the film industry for 30 years where he frequently serves as a shop steward. During this time he’s been active in social justice issues and has produced a handful of short, web-based documentaries.