I recently came across the slogan “For a Safe and Crime-Free Richmond” circulating online in discussions about the proposed Cambie Permanent Housing (CPH) project. While the desire for safety is a universal concern, it’s crucial to examine how this slogan frames the issue and its potential impact on our community. Does it truly reflect a commitment to safety for all, or does it oversimplify a complex issue and perpetuate harmful stereotypes?

The phrase “crime-free” implies that the proposed supportive housing might contribute to crime, reinforcing negative stereotypes about individuals experiencing homelessness and those in need of support. It subtly suggests that opposing the project is the only way to ensure safety, potentially overlooking solutions that balance housing needs with legitimate community concerns. It’s important to remember that suggesting a link between supportive housing and crime relies on harmful assumptions. It perpetuates the misconception that homeless individuals are inherently dangerous or prone to criminal activity, when in reality, many are struggling with mental health challenges, addiction, or simply the lack of a stable place to live. This “crime-free” ideal also sets an unrealistic expectation. Is any community truly “crime-free”? Framing the issue this way risks using fear as a tactic rather than fostering a productive discussion.

While community safety is a legitimate concern, slogans like this can contribute to the stigmatization of vulnerable populations. It can create an “us vs. them” dynamic, making it harder to have a balanced, solutions-oriented conversation. It’s vital to acknowledge that everyone deserves to feel safe in their community. However, we must also recognize that stigmatizing and isolating those struggling with homelessness is not a solution. In fact, it can exacerbate the very problems we’re trying to address.

It’s also important to consider alternative perspectives. Supporters of housing projects like CPH argue that stable, supportive housing can actually reduce crime by providing people with essential services, stability, and pathways to recovery. Many studies suggest that when properly managed, supportive housing does not inherently lead to increased crime. Instead, crime often stems from a lack of resources, support, and housing stability. For example, research has shown that providing individuals with stable housing and access to mental health and addiction treatment can significantly reduce their involvement in criminal activity.

Instead of opposing housing outright, a more constructive approach might be advocating for strong management, security measures, and wraparound services that address both the needs of residents and the broader community. This could include things like 24/7 on-site staffing, case management services, mental health and addiction support, and regular communication with the surrounding neighborhood. The focus should be on how best to integrate supportive housing into the community, not framing it as a threat. How can we work together to ensure that these projects are successful and benefit everyone?

We need to move beyond simplistic slogans and engage in a more nuanced discussion about safety and supportive housing. Instead of “For a Safe and Crime-Free Richmond,” perhaps we should strive for something like “Safe Communities, Supportive Housing” or “Building a Safer Richmond, Together.” These slogans directly address the safety concern while also promoting the idea of inclusion and collaboration.

The conversation about CPH is not about choosing between safety and compassion. It’s about finding solutions that prioritize both. It’s about recognizing that everyone deserves a safe place to live, and that providing supportive housing can be a crucial step towards building a safer and more inclusive Richmond for all. Let’s move beyond fear-based narratives and work together to create a community where everyone can thrive. I encourage you to learn more about the issue, engage in respectful dialogue, and contact your local representatives to express your views. Let’s work together to build a truly safe and inclusive Richmond.