LOOK AT ROOT CAUSES OF DRUG USE

Re: "Pushing off the drug pushers," editorial, May 18.

I agree with much of what the writer states about how complex the issue of
drug use is and how we treat (or don't treat) people who are addicted.

But I think the "war on drugs" has never focused on the right "enemy." Drugs
of one kind or another have been with us for eons, and we must shift our
view from one of loathing to one of compassion.

We have to stop locking people up and, instead, look at the root causes of
why people use drugs in the first place: poverty, childhood sexual and
physical abuse, violence, and the hopelessness, depression and mental
illness faced by so many. Until then we will see the pointless "battle"
waged over and over with no resolution, only more hurt and pain.

Victoria AIDS Resource and Community Service Society (VARCS), operates the
Mobile X mobile needle exchange and until our society learns to value life
for its own sake, and works to truly support those who are poor and
suffering, needle exchange on the streets and in every part of our
communities will remain a necessity.

Michael Yoder,

executive director,

Victoria AIDS Resource and

Community Service Society,

Victoria.