CHANGING THE TERM 'SAFE INJECTION SITE' WOULD HELP ME

I am writing as someone who is committed to valuable drug education
for youth.

I'm requesting that you use the term "supervised injection sites" and
refrain from using the term "safe injection sites" when referring to
centres hoping to reduce harm to drug users.

I have spent the last 15 years of my career working with
youth.

I have spent a lot of time addressing the urgent education and
awareness needs of communities.

I'm aware of the impact the media has young people's perceptions
regarding illicit drug use.

This is why I'm deeply concerned at the repeated use of the term "safe
injection sites" by the media.

There is nothing safe about an injection site; illicit drug use is
never safe.

The media's involvement in repeatedly sending this conflicted message
to youth, and the general public, about the safety of injection sites
is frightening.

Please help us to continue our fight against illicit drug use by using
the appropriate terminology when referring to supervised injection
sites.

Theresa Campbell,

safe schools manager,

Surrey School District