The backlash that followed the public protest against the Paradise Valley Centre for Change is heartening to see. It shows that some residents in this community have transcended the short-sighted and unfounded fears over addictions counselling facilities, choosing instead to tap into a compassion for human suffering.
The utterly selfish and unapologetic nature of the protest boggles the mind. The group appears completely foolish mugging for cameras while carrying a large spray-painted sign stating: "Say no to drugs."
What the heck do they think the treatment centre stands for? This will be the one place in Squamish (save for another treatment house in the Garibaldi Highlands) that is assured to contain not a drop or speck of addictive substances. The group of residents petitioning against the centre has listed as a concern a disruption to the peace and serenity the area offers. The suffering individuals they would so callously reject from their serene neighbourhood are the very people who should have access to the healing beauty and uplifting surroundings of nature.
Who are these people to slam shut the door to paradise the moment they step foot into it? One protestor has the temerity to point to the proponent as socially irresponsible, questioning their "good corporate citizenry" for attempting this among neighbours who would resent them.
The defining characteristic of social responsibility is a focus on the betterment of society as a whole. And yes, sometimes that means a certain amount of compromise. This facility could make a profound difference to Squamish and beyond, and attempts to block it may not only lead to fewer people getting help, but to fewer addicts seeking help for fear of being stigmatized. Just who is being socially irresponsible here? The group has also listed other concerns, including the poor condition of the road, the lack of water and sewage infrastructure, and a fear of diminishing property value. There's no question the roads need upgrading, and the proponent has said that the development will include as much roadwork as they can afford. How better to resolve the problem?
The centre will also have to meet (and exceed) every health code to ensure the best the clients. That means water and sewage infrastructure that will probably surpass many neighbouring properties.
As for property values, the proponent offers a letter from Peter Birrell of RE/Max North Vancouver who states: "The Orchard on Bowen Island is a great example of a treatment centre that has been welcomed by the residents and has had no impact on real estate prices."
The realtor also points to Edgewater in Nanaimo as a "an asset to the community" that has had "no impact on the value of properties."
All of the neighbours' concerns can be addressed except the recoil against the stigma of addiction. No matter how "normal" the clients appear, people will look upon them with suspicion.
The lack of compassion is simply appalling.
