Knowledge Thirsty Thursdays: The Case for Decriminalization (Webinar)

Are you ready to dive into one of Canada’s most highly debated topics? Drug decriminalization is shaking up the traditional stance on drug regulation, and the evidence is mounting that the current approach is doing more harm than good. Join us on an exciting journey as we explore Canada’s history of drug prohibition, uncover different models implemented locally and internationally, and discuss what advocates are fighting for in Canada. This Knowledge Thirsty Thursday will contextualize what decriminalization means and how it could not only improve public health outcomes, but also save lives This is a conversation you won’t want to miss – grab a seat and get ready to challenge your assumptions about drug policy!

Guest Speakers:

Kym Porter is a retired educator who left the profession soon as her son died from the toxic drug supply.  She belongs to various groups in Medicine Hat advocating for drug policy changes.

Sarah Auger is a citizen of Mikisew Cree First Nation, Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, where her father’s family resides. Her mother’s family is Métis from Lac Ste Anne, Alberta. She is a PhD Candidate in Educational Policy Studies with a specialization in Indigenous Peoples Education. Her doctoral research examines Indigenous art as pedagogy. She holds an M.Ed. in Educational Policy Studies (2012) and a B.A. in Native Studies (1999). She works as a project coordinator in the Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. Sarah is a bereaved mother who became a member of Moms Stop the Harm after her son tragically passed away due to the drug toxicity crisis in December 2022.