Brave Spaces

Hope & Healing in the Toxic Drug Crisis

Join the Coquitlam Public Library, in partnership with Tri-Cities Community Action Team, in this 2-part speaker series featuring a documentary and stories from people affected by the Toxic Drug Crisis

This series brings awareness of people who are from diverse groups and how everyone's story is different.

"Smokey Devil: Underworld Street Reporter" is a documentary that tells the story of Smokey Devil, a renowned artist and icon in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.  

Focus on Smokey Devil: The film centers on the life and work of Smokey Devil, an artist known for his murals depicting the toxic drug crisis, memorials, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG2S), and other important social issues.  

Community Activism: It highlights Smokey's role as a community activist and his use of art as a powerful tool for raising awareness and sharing information within the Downtown Eastside.  

Impact of the Toxic Drug Crisis: The documentary explores the devastating impact of the toxic drug crisis on the Downtown Eastside and how Smokey's art reflects and responds to this crisis.

Personal Journey: It provides insights into Smokey's personal journey, including his experiences with addiction and his commitment to using his art to make a difference in his community.

Essentially, "Smokey Devil: Underworld Street Reporter" is a tribute to a unique artist and a powerful testament to the resilience and creativity of the Downtown Eastside community.

A brave space:

• is a supportive place where participants feel comfortable learning, sharing honestly and equally, and growing individually and together.
• is inclusive of all races, sexes, genders, abilities, immigration statuses, languages, and lived experiences.
• can help encourage dialogue, especially about challenging topics like anti-racism.

There will be time for questions from the audience.

Registration is recommended for each session, but drop-ins are welcome. 

If you have any questions, please contact Ann at ajohannes@coqlibrary.ca 

In partnership with the Tri-Cities Community Action Team

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