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June 25, 2025 – Reflections from This Afternoon’s “Indigeneity & Intercultural Connection” at KPU Richmond
This afternoon, I had the privilege of being part of a deeply moving gathering hosted by Richmond Multicultural Community Services (RMCS) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Indigeneity and Intercultural Connection brought together a vibrant circle of voices—Indigenous elders, second-generation immigrants, newcomers, artists, and community leaders. It was a space where we didn’t just talk about connection—we… Continue reading
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June 21, 2025 – Called to Go: Reflections from an Unexpected Encounter
This afternoon, I had the chance to attend a community event hosted by a Chinese medicine association. A good friend invited me to visit their resource table, and while I came expecting warm conversation and cultural insights, I left with something more—an unexpected moment of reflection on connection and intention. While I was chatting in… Continue reading
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June 19, 2025 – More Than “Just Say No”: A Reflection on Crafting a Comprehensive Dialogue for Chinese Families on Youth Substance Use
In many Chinese communities, discussions around youth substance use often gravitate towards broad policy measures or strict prohibitions. We’re ingrained with the simple directive to “just say no” to drugs. Yet, as we navigate increasingly complex social landscapes and the inherent challenges of adolescence, one might reflect: is that singular message truly sufficient? A persistent… Continue reading
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June 10, 2025 – When “Anti-Drug” Becomes a Tool for Inciting Hatred: Reflections on the Richmond Incidents
Recent videos circulating in Richmond have brought to light a disturbing phenomenon: individuals are deliberately provoking people who use drugs, recording their reactions, and then disseminating these videos online. Their aim appears to be to incite public disgust towards drug users, often linking it to racial issues. This type of behavior, disguised under the banner… Continue reading
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May 27, 2025 – A Visit to the Hospital, a Glimpse of the Streets
Today, I visited a parishioner at St. Paul’s Hospital. As I stepped outside after the visit, my attention was drawn to a group of individuals sitting or lying near the hospital entrance. Some had carts and bags with them, everything they owned gathered in one place. One person was lying motionless on the ground. I… Continue reading
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May 25, 2025 – Beyond Impossible: From Stigma to Strength Through Storytelling
I recently had the profound privilege of attending “Beyond Impossible: Navigating Stigma Through Stories of Strength,” an event hosted by the BC Schizophrenia Society in recognition of National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day. Held at The Cultch Historic Theatre and livestreamed, the evening was a powerful testament to the human spirit—a deeply moving space where… Continue reading
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May 23, 2025 – Reclaiming Healing: Reflections on Len Pierre’s TEDx Talk “Decolonizing Substance Use and Addiction”
I was deeply touched and inspired by Len Pierre’s TEDxSFU talk, Decolonizing Substance Use and Addiction. As a Coast Salish educator and traditional knowledge keeper from the Katzie First Nation, Pierre speaks with clarity, conviction, and deep compassion about the complex realities of addiction, especially within Indigenous communities. What makes his message so powerful is… Continue reading
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May 23, 2025 – Feeding Hope and Facing Questions: A Community Reflects on Food Insecurity in Richmond
When we speak about food insecurity, homelessness, and human dignity, we must also be willing to listen. After sharing “Feeding Hope in Richmond” on Reddit, I took time to read through each comment. I found myself encouraged by some, challenged by others, and reminded of how layered and complex these issues are in our city.… Continue reading
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May 21, 2025 – Loving Our Neighbors: A Faith-Based Reflection on Substance Use and Stigma
A recent webinar hosted by the Community Addictions Peer Support Association (CAPSA) delivered a profound message. It wasn’t just another public health presentation; it was a deeply moving invitation for churches and community groups to fundamentally rethink their approach to substance use. It called us to embody the compassion of Christ in tangible, practical ways,… Continue reading
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May 21, 2025 – Breaking the Silence: What I Learned from a CAPSA Webinar on Substance Use and Stigma
A recent webinar hosted by the Community Addictions Peer Support Association (CAPSA) shed light on the pervasive issue of stigma surrounding substance use, offering a powerful call to action for individuals and communities to respond with compassion rather than judgment. The session emphasized that understanding and addressing stigma is crucial for fostering healing and support.… Continue reading