Frontline workers are trying to address the public perception of vulnerable people in Terrace following the events of a Sept. 26 city council meeting.
Following comments made by a member of the public at the meeting, a frontline worker from the Kermode Friendship Society organized a campout in front of city hall to advocate for the local unhoused population.
The comments were made by a resident who is opposed to the relocation of the Ksan Turning Points residence and shelter.
“If I find someone in my backyard, they’re not leaving my backyard,” resident Timothy Boyce had stated.
Following that, they had likened the homeless population to having a “bad bear problem,” including that “when you get a bad bear problem, they either get relocated or shot.”
The comments came after a petition was presented to oppose the placement of the shelter citing worries of theft and safety.
Then, two weeks later, a group of frontline workers, along with other community members, gathered in front of city hall on Oct. 9 with signs and shirts saying “I am not a bear,” and other statements of support, to camp through the night.
Kermode Friendship Society Executive Director Jolene Wesley said that the campout was also a way to invite council members to discuss homelessness.
During the Sept. 26 meeting, council had listened to the resident’s concerns without reacting to the specific comments. According to the Council Procedure Bylaw, there are no specific rules or regulations to monitor language used by members of the public in council chambers.
In response to a request for a comment, the city provided a statement to CFNR.
“We’re encouraged to see the passion of our community members for this very difficult topic. We felt the campout at City Hall was well attended, a great job was done by the volunteers and organizers,” the statement reads. “We’re also glad this topic is getting attention. It’s a difficult one, but a necessary one, especially with winter approaching”.
“The City of Terrace values a safe and respectful workplace for staff, Council, and the public. Violent comments are never endorsed by Council or administration,” the statement continues.
After handing out turkey dinners to vulnerable people, Wesley said that approximately 15 people made their way to city hall for the night on Oct. 9. The demonstration lasted from about 6:30 p.m. to around 8 a.m. the next morning.
