Sunday, August 31, 2025

20 Important Questions We Should Be Asking About Our Education System

Sometimes, the best way to understand what’s broken — and what needs to change — is to ask the right questions. Here are twenty that every student, parent, teacher, policymaker, and community member should be thinking about:

Who truly benefits from rising international student enrollment — the students, or the institutions?
Why is tuition for international students often several times higher than for local students?
Where is all that money going, and how much actually supports education versus administration?
Should schools be allowed to treat students as “revenue streams” rather than learners?
What responsibilities do governments have in regulating international recruitment?
Why do so many international students struggle to find safe, affordable housing?
How has the student housing crisis spilled over into the broader housing market?
Who monitors homestay programs to ensure safety and fairness for students?
Are local students losing opportunities because schools prioritize higher-paying international applicants?
What kind of cultural and social supports are in place to help students thrive beyond the classroom?
Why are some students promised pathways to permanent residency that may not materialize?
How much debt are families overseas taking on to send their children here — and at what cost?
What long-term risks does BC face if education becomes more about profit than learning?
Why aren’t communities given more of a voice in decisions that affect housing, transit, and services?
How transparent are universities and colleges about their international recruitment numbers?
Is it ethical to advertise Canadian education as a golden ticket, when for many it isn’t?
What lessons can be learned from other countries facing similar education-industry challenges?
How can we better balance opportunity for international students with fairness for local students?
What accountability measures should leaders face if the system fails students and communities?
Most importantly: are we building an education system that values learning, fairness, and dignity — or one that values profit above all else?

These are not easy questions, but they are essential. Change begins with asking — and refusing to accept silence as an answer.

Rethink Education – Part 1 of 5

My Story: $22,000, a Baby, and a Broken Promise

Education is supposed to be a pathway to opportunity. But for thousands of students — domestic, international, and Indigenous alike — it has become a financial trap.

When I returned to college at 28, I paid $22,000. I had worked physically demanding jobs from youth, leaving me with chronic tendonitis. I needed a way forward.

Then came the dot-com crash. Jobs disappeared. I had a baby. No daycare, no childcare support. I defaulted on my loan. The college had already taken my money. I was left with debt, exhaustion, and uncertainty.

Fast forward to today: Vancouver Community College has announced its third round of layoffs this year, citing low international enrolment. Institutions across BC are relying heavily on tuition from international students to cover budget gaps — a system that fails students when economic shifts happen.

Education shouldn’t be a gamble. It should be a right, accessible to all, fair, and supported by society, not a business designed to profit from students’ dreams.

Next in the series:

Part 2 – The Recruitment Machine: International Students and Exploitation. We’ll look at how students are recruited from abroad, why KPU in Surrey needs an audit, and how this system has been in place for decades.

Part 5: A Call for Real Solutions

🚍 Blog Post Part 5: A Call for Real Solutions

After exploring the gaps in safety, emergency response, and enforcement on public transit, it’s clear that passengers — especially students, seniors, and vulnerable riders — need more than rules and warnings. They need real support and positive change.

Here are some concrete steps that could make transit safer and more human:

Training for Drivers and Staff
Drivers and transit personnel should receive comprehensive training to handle medical emergencies, overdoses, and other safety concerns — while still respecting their own safety.
Clear, Rapid-Response Protocols
Passengers need accurate, easy-to-use systems to summon help quickly. Helplines should be verified, and emergency support should be timely.
A Culture of Safety and Respect
Beyond enforcement, transit should foster compassion and mutual responsibility. Seniors, students, and vulnerable riders should feel protected rather than ignored.
Making Transit Fun and Engaging
Imagine turning the daily commute into a cultural experience. Seniors and young performers could entertain passengers on trains or in stations — singing, dancing, doing art, or even acting as playful “conductors.” Transit could become a space that feels alive, human, and connected, rather than a corridor of “zombies” glued to their phones.
Community Advocacy
Students, riders, and local organizations can help advocate for these changes — demanding better safety protocols, equitable enforcement, and more engaging, positive transit spaces.

Public transit shouldn’t just be a way to get from A to B. It should be a safe, inclusive, and vibrant part of community life. By addressing emergencies seriously, enforcing rules fairly, and bringing creativity and culture on board, we can transform transit into a space that reflects the best of our city — not its anxieties.

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Sending Prayers and Solidarity to Washington, D.C.

As Washington, D.C. faces extreme heat, drought, and an overwhelming federal presence in its streets, the courage and resilience of its residents stand out as a beacon of hope. Over the Labor Day weekend, thousands have taken to the streets to stand up for human rights, labor rights, and community autonomy, even in the face of arrests, fear, and uncertainty.

We want to send prayers and hope for peace to everyone in D.C. navigating these tense days. The heavy enforcement, record-breaking arrests, and visible stress on daily life could easily overwhelm a community—but instead, we see solidarity, compassion, and determination.

To those protesters and activists standing up for justice and human dignity, we extend heartfelt kudos and support. Your courage reminds the world that even amid fear, ordinary people can unite for extraordinary causes. Standing together for human rights is never easy, but your actions show the power of community, empathy, and moral conviction.

Let us all take a moment to recognize the importance of peaceful resistance and collective action. May the spirit of solidarity reach beyond D.C., inspiring all of us to stand firm for human rights, fairness, and the common good.

Together, we hope for peace. Together, we hope for safety. Together, we hope for justice.

Read more about the situation in D.C. here: D.C. Protests Against Federal Crackdown

Storytelling as Survival: Introducing The Alchemy of Ivy Mae

Storytelling as Survival: Introducing The Alchemy of Ivy Mae

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how we process the times we’re living in. Climate change, housing insecurity, poverty, social unrest, and now constant reminders of solar activity and technological fragility — these aren’t just headlines. They shape how we live, how we connect, and how we imagine the future.

One way I’ve been exploring these themes is through storytelling. Sometimes, activism needs a different lens — not just facts, stats, or news, but a narrative that allows people to feel the urgency and imagine new possibilities.

That’s what led me to create The Alchemy of Ivy Mae, a storytelling blog where I follow Jas, a non-binary teen navigating a world after the lights have gone out. It’s fiction, but it reflects real questions:

How do young people survive when systems collapse?
How do identity, resilience, and community guide us when resources are scarce?
What role does nature play in teaching us how to adapt?

It’s magical realism and visionary eco-fiction, but it’s also rooted in the activism and awareness I write about here on Tina Winterlik.

If you’re interested, you can explore it here:
👉 The Alchemy of Ivy Mae — https://thealchemyofivymae.blogspot.com?m=1

I wrote it quickly, in just a couple weeks, even though it was meant to be a year-long project. Posts are scheduled into the future, but like many independent projects, it doesn’t get much attention. Still, I believe it adds another layer to the conversation we’re having about survival, hope, and imagining better ways forward.

Because sometimes activism looks like marching or protesting — and sometimes it looks like stories that remind us who we are, and who we could become.

—Tina Winterlik (Zipolita)

Part 4: Enforcement vs. Safety

🚍 Blog Post Part 4: Enforcement vs. Safety

Recently, I saw something on a bus that was unsettling. Four transit cops got on — two at the front, two at the back — checking everyone’s Compass cards. The bus had only a handful of people. It felt bizarre, almost like a scene from a foreign country. In that moment, I realized I didn’t recognize Canada anymore.

The system had been “ripped off” in some areas, so fare enforcement increased. But focusing resources on checking cards while overdoses, drug use, and vulnerable passengers go unaddressed creates a distorted sense of priorities. The people who really need help — students, seniors, Indigenous passengers, and anyone in distress — often get ignored, while the attention is on minor infractions.

This isn’t just about rules; it’s about where we place our collective attention. Transit should be safe and supportive, not intimidating or alienating. Enforcement without care for real safety creates a system where passengers feel watched but not protected.

We need to ask ourselves: are we protecting the public, or just enforcing rules? Safety requires action on emergencies, support for the vulnerable, and clear, compassionate communication — not just checking fares.

Friday, August 29, 2025

The Human Cost of the BCGEU Strike

When the Frontline Stops: The Human Cost of the BCGEU Strike

The Heartbeat of Our Communities

Community health workers are the unsung heroes of our society. They are the home support workers who assist seniors with daily tasks, the mental health professionals who provide care in group homes, the shelter staff who offer refuge to the homeless, and the addiction counselors who guide individuals toward recovery. These dedicated individuals ensure that our most vulnerable populations receive the care and support they need to live with dignity.

However, these essential workers are facing an unprecedented crisis. On August 29, 2025, over 34,000 members of the BC General Employees' Union (BCGEU) voted overwhelmingly—92.7% in favor—to authorize strike action due to stalled contract negotiations and inadequate wage offers from the provincial government. [source]

The Human Impact: A Story from the Frontlines

Consider the case of Sarah, a 68-year-old woman living in a modest apartment in Vancouver. Sarah relies on daily visits from a home support worker to assist with meal preparation, medication management, and personal care. Without this support, Sarah's health deteriorates rapidly, and she becomes isolated from her community.

Now, imagine that Sarah's home support worker is part of the BCGEU strike. The visits stop. Sarah is left without the assistance she desperately needs. Her health declines, and she is forced to seek emergency care, placing additional strain on an already overburdened healthcare system.

Sarah's story is not unique. Across British Columbia, thousands of individuals like her are at risk as community health workers prepare to strike. The potential consequences are dire: increased hospital admissions, heightened mental health crises, and a breakdown in the social safety net that many rely on.

The Stark Reality: Wage Disparities and Systemic Inequities

The disparity between the compensation of frontline workers and that of executives is stark. While community health workers earn modest wages, often below the provincial average, executives in the same sector receive salaries that are exponentially higher. This wage gap not only undermines the value of essential work but also contributes to high turnover rates and burnout among staff.

BCGEU President Paul Finch highlighted that low wages for community health workers serving vulnerable populations have forced some union members to work multiple jobs and experience periods of homelessness, leading to high turnover rates. [source]

The Broader Implications: A System on the Brink

Healthcare Overload: Hospitals and emergency services will become overwhelmed as individuals who rely on community-based care seek urgent attention.
Increased Homelessness: Shelters and housing support services will be stretched thin, leading to more individuals living on the streets.
Mental Health Crises: Without adequate support, individuals with mental health issues may experience exacerbated symptoms, leading to more frequent crises.
Economic Strain: The cost of emergency interventions and hospitalizations will increase, placing additional strain on public resources.

A Call to Action: Supporting Our Frontline Workers

The BCGEU strike is a call to action for all of us. It is a reminder that the well-being of our communities depends on the dedication and fair treatment of those who serve them. As residents of British Columbia, we must advocate for:

Fair Compensation: Ensuring that community health workers receive wages that reflect the importance and demands of their roles.
Adequate Resources: Providing the necessary tools, training, and support to enable workers to perform their jobs effectively.
Respect and Recognition: Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of frontline workers and ensuring they are treated with the dignity they deserve.

Conclusion: Standing Together for a Stronger Future

The potential strike by BCGEU members is a pivotal moment for British Columbia. It is an opportunity to reassess our values and priorities as a society. By supporting our community health workers, we are investing in the health, safety, and well-being of all residents. Let us stand together to ensure that the heartbeat of our communities continues to thrive.

If you found this article informative and compelling, consider sharing it with others to raise awareness about the importance of supporting our frontline workers. Together, we can make a difference.

Detox Wait Times in BC: Improvements, Reality, and Context

Recently, the Government of BC and news outlets like CTV News have highlighted that detox wait times in the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) region have “plummeted,” with people often able to access detox on the same day. The reports reference the Road to Recovery initiative, a made-in-BC program aiming to provide a seamless continuum of care from detox to treatment and aftercare, including:

Non-judgmental, evidence-based, trauma-informed care
Peer-led support and recovery communities
Ongoing recovery and wellness supports

At first glance, this sounds like a dramatic improvement — and it is partially true.

What the News Confirms

The CTV News article by Penny Daflos (August 28, 2025) and government announcements confirm that B.C. has streamlined its intake system. A single phone line (Access Central: 1-866-658-1221) now connects individuals directly with trained health professionals who guide them to appropriate support. This is a positive step forward, and for many people, the system is faster and easier to navigate than before.

What the Headlines Don’t Fully Capture

However, the reality on the ground is more nuanced:

Same-Day Access vs. Immediate Placement
While same-day assessments are increasingly available, immediate placement in a detox bed is not guaranteed. Bed availability varies by location and demand.
Regional Variations
Not all communities have the same access to peer-led support, ongoing recovery programs, and aftercare services. Some areas may have fewer resources.
Systemic Challenges Remain
Despite improvements, staffing shortages, high demand, and limited resources can still affect timely access to care.

Honoring Those Lost and Supporting the Living

As we approach August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day, we remember all those who have passed due to opioid and fentanyl overdoses. We honor their lives and recognize the grief of the walking wounded — families and friends left behind, navigating a world forever changed.

Harm reduction strategies can save lives. Cannabis substitution, supervised consumption, and Narcan (naloxone) kits are crucial tools for preventing overdose and supporting safer recovery journeys. Communities are working tirelessly to ensure these options are accessible to those in need.

Context: Timing and Messaging

It’s notable that this surge in government messaging comes just before Overdose Awareness Day. Are these updates reflecting real, systemic change, or responding to public attention on overdoses? Likely a combination of both.

What This Means for People Seeking Help

Call Access Central: 1-866-658-1221
Check local VCH withdrawal services to confirm what’s available in your area
Be aware that wait times may still exist, and availability of peer and aftercare programs can vary

Takeaway

The recent improvements in detox access are real and important, but the system isn’t perfect yet. People seeking help should be aware of both the progress and the limitations. Accurate information is especially crucial around Overdose Awareness Day, when communities reflect on the urgent need for accessible, compassionate care.

We remember those lost, support the living, and continue advocating for a system that truly meets people where they are — with respect, dignity, and care.

From the Morgue to the Penthouse

From the Morgue to the Penthouse: Coroners Still Underpaid, CEOs Still Overpaid—Just Like in Larry Campbell’s Vancouver

Remember Vancouver in the early 2000s? That’s when Larry Campbell, a former coroner himself, became mayor. Back then, you might’ve hoped things would change—after all, a coroner in City Hall could shine a light on frontline workers’ treatment. But here we are, 2025, and nothing’s improved. If anything, the gap has grown wider—and crueler.

1. Coroners Still Paid Peanuts—And the Consequences Are Deadly

Back in Campbell’s era, community coroners were already underpaid. Today? They’re still earning a toothless $32.32/hour, with no benefits, limited hours, and exposure to emotional trauma, under an “as-needed” contract structure.

The human cost is horrifyingly clear: in East Vancouver earlier this year, police found a deceased man in his apartment. The community coroner did not attend in person, relying instead on a remote phone briefing. The result? They missed two additional bodies in the apartment, one of them a 13-year-old Indigenous girl, Noelle O’Soup. Their remains weren’t discovered for months—only after neighbors complained about a foul odor. 💔💔💔💔
(globalnews.ca, nsnews.com)

This isn’t a fluke. It’s the systemic consequence of underfunding, forcing coroners into remote assessments instead of face-to-face investigations—and putting lives and justice at risk.

2. Health Authority Executives Are Banking in the Millions

Meanwhile, the government hires Dr. Penny Ballem, walking in with $400,000/year, to oversee an efficiency review she helped build. She’s already billed taxpayers $1.4 million in consulting, projected to hit $1.8 million over five years, and the report remains secret. (vancouverisawesome.com)

Across BC, dozens of health authority executives make $250k–$500k/year, with perks, bonuses, and golden parachutes. Meanwhile, the people actually running life-and-death investigations earn barely above minimum wage. (reddit.com)

3. Twenty-plus Years of Broken Promises

Campbell, the coroner-turned-mayor, was once the symbol of progressive governance. Yet two decades later, the fields of harm reduction, public safety, and frontline care are still undervalued. Coroners still earn fractions of what bureaucrats do. Executives still get golden parachutes while frontline workers fight burnout and trauma.

The death of a 13-year-old girl in a scenario that could have been prevented if a trained professional had attended the scene in person highlights the human cost of austerity. This isn’t policy—it’s negligence wrapped in bureaucracy.

4. The Injustice Is Personal—and Structural

This isn't just an accounting issue. It's a social value statement:

You, the coroner, walking into trauma and death, underpaid and unsupported.
They, the executive, sitting in an office, earning hundreds of thousands, insulated from real consequences.

Frontline workers cope with trauma. Executives negotiate glossy contracts.
The province still acts as if doing the hard, heartbreaking work is cheap, invisible, or optional—and the rest is worth millions.

Final Note: Endorse the Rage, Demand Justice

We can’t keep pretending that systemic underfunding is “efficiency.” When children die unnoticed and frontline workers are left underpaid, the moral clarity of oversight, justice, and human decency is lost.

Twenty-plus years after Larry Campbell’s era, nothing has changed—and in some ways, things are worse. The hole for frontline workers has only gotten deeper, and the cost is paid with human lives.

It’s time to call it what it is: structural cruelty, negligence, and grotesque executive greed.

When Help Isn’t Help

🚍 Blog Post Part 2: When Help Isn’t Help

Transit messaging often tells passengers to “call the helpline” if they see a problem. But what happens when that advice isn’t enough?

Over the past year, I’ve seen hundreds of overdoses and drug-related incidents at bus stops and on buses between Surrey and Vancouver. In many cases, transit staff do not call authorities, and passengers are left feeling scared, powerless, and unsure of what to do.

Even when drivers direct you to a helpline (like 833 or 8777), it’s not always helpful. On one bus, I was given the wrong number and had to look it up myself. Imagine a student or vulnerable passenger in that situation — what do they do while waiting for help to arrive? Time can be critical, and the current system puts all responsibility on ordinary passengers rather than trained staff.

The reality is that safety depends on more than just “following the rules.” Passengers need real support, not empty instructions. That means:

Trained staff who can respond to medical emergencies and overdoses.
Clear, accurate contact numbers and rapid response protocols.
A culture where everyone understands their role in maintaining safety, rather than assuming passengers must act alone.

Until then, vulnerable riders — students, seniors, and anyone at risk — continue to face unsafe conditions, and the messaging from transit authorities risks giving a false sense of security.

Thursday, August 28, 2025

The Reality Behind “Tell the Bus Driver”

🚍 The Reality Behind “Tell the Bus Driver”

Back-to-school season is here, and Metro Transit Police recently put out an announcement reminding students to stay safe on public transit. One key piece of advice: “If you see a problem, tell the bus driver.”

On paper, that sounds simple and reassuring. In reality, it’s far more complicated.

Last September, I was on a bus in Surrey heading to Vancouver. The bus was lightly filled — maybe ten people. A woman in the back appeared to be unconscious or sleeping. Another passenger looked terrified, silently pleading for someone to do something. I approached the bus driver and said, “Do you know there’s someone back here?”

Her response shocked me: “Yeah… they got on my bus to make my life hell today. Call 833.”

I later discovered she gave me the wrong number, and I had to look it up myself. Beyond that, drivers are often not allowed to intervene because of safety rules and union policies implemented after COVID and incidents of workplace violence. They are trained to follow these protocols strictly — meaning vulnerable passengers are often left to handle emergencies themselves.

This isn’t just an isolated incident. Over the past year, I’ve witnessed hundreds of overdoses and drug-related incidents at bus stops, and many times, drivers or transit staff do not call authorities. Seniors, pregnant women, people with mobility aids, and other vulnerable riders are left exposed to unsafe situations. And the messaging — “ask the bus driver” — puts the burden on passengers instead of addressing systemic gaps.

We need to rethink how safety is communicated and supported on public transit. A culture of respect and clear protocols — backed by trained staff who can act — is essential to truly protect students and vulnerable riders.

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Who Will Save the Paiges, Still? An Open Letter to B.C. Leaders

Who Will Save the Paiges, Still? An Open Letter to B.C. Leaders

Ten years ago, in 2015, I wrote a blog post called “Who will Save the Paiges? WTF when will it Change!” after the heartbreaking death of Paige, a 19-year-old Indigenous girl abandoned by the very system meant to protect her. At the time, we were told it was a wake-up call. A damning report said professional indifference and systemic racism failed Paige, and warned there were 100–150 other children just like her in the Downtown Eastside.

Today, in 2025, we are seeing it happen again.

This week, a Vancouver restaurant owner spoke out after encountering a 12-year-old girl alone in the Downtown Eastside. He tried to help, but like me, he was left asking: how can this possibly still be happening?

It feels like déjà vu. Paige’s story should have forced change. Instead, nothing has changed.

A Message to Our Leaders

Premier David Eby, Minister of Children and Family Development Mitzi Dean, and Representative for Children and Youth Jennifer Charlesworth:

How many more children have to be failed before you act?

In B.C., the law says children must be protected until age 18. How does a 12-year-old end up in the DTES with no one stepping in?
In 2015, we were promised Paige’s death would not be in vain. Yet here we are, a decade later, with the same failures, the same excuses, and children still slipping through the cracks.
Indigenous and vulnerable children continue to be treated as if their lives matter less.

This is not “a tragic one-off.” It’s a systemic crisis.

My Own Experience

I know how frightening and inconsistent this system is, because I lived it. When my own child was 17, they moved out. I feared that the Ministry would force them into foster care even though they were working and trying to find their own way. I told them honestly that they were struggling with self-harm, and I thought they would use that against us. They spoke to me, their stepdad, my sister — and in the end, they wrote that it was a “mistake.”

But that’s the point: sometimes the Ministry overreaches, sometimes it disappears completely. Families are left in fear and confusion, while children who truly need protection — like Paige, or this 12-year-old — are abandoned. The rules don’t make sense, and they don’t keep kids safe.

What Needs to Change

Immediate protection for children in the DTES — no excuses, no waiting until the next tragedy.
Real supports for youth past 19 — stop abandoning them on their birthdays.
Accountability and transparency — the public deserves to know how many kids are at risk and what’s being done.
An independent inquiry into why nothing has changed since Paige’s report.

My Plea

When I saw a young girl smoking crack at a Surrey bus stop, I called for help — because that’s what we should all do when a child is in danger. But as citizens we can only do so much. The people in charge have the power to protect children, and they are failing.

Ten years ago, I asked: “Who will save the Paiges?”
I’m asking again today: Who will save her? Who will save them?

Wake up, B.C. The time for reports and excuses is over. Children’s lives are on the line.

Sincerely,
Tina Winterlik

International Overdose Awareness Day — August 31

We are the walking wounded who carry love and grief together. Today we remember, reduce stigma, and choose compassion.

Quick Stats (BC & Canada)

2,511 British Columbians died from unregulated toxic drug poisonings in 2023 (~7 per day).
Fentanyl is present in the vast majority of fatalities in recent years.
Since BC’s public health emergency (2016), the toll continues to climb—every life is a family, a story, a future.

Overdose is preventable when we act: carry naloxone, learn the signs, and check on people you love.

How this Day Began

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) began in 2001 in Melbourne, Australia, started by social worker Sally J. Finn alongside a Salvation Army needle-exchange BBQ to remember lives lost and confront stigma. Since 2012, the campaign has been coordinated by the Penington Institute and now spans the globe each year on August 31.

2025 marks the 25th annual observance of IOAD.

Where We’re Gathering on August 31 (Metro Vancouver & Vancouver Island)

Vancouver – Oppenheimer Park & 300 Block of E. Hastings (DTES)

Time: From noon (12:00 p.m.) into the afternoon/evening
Details: Community remembrance, march/gathering led by local groups (e.g., WAHRS, VANDU) with ceremony and BBQ.

Burnaby – Civic Square (6100 Willingdon Ave)

Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Hosted by: Burnaby Community Action Team (BCAT)
What’s happening: Remembrance ceremony, resource booths, story-sharing, entertainment, and more.

City of Vancouver – Civic Observance

Date: Sunday, August 31 (City calendar listing for IOAD)
Location: City Hall / civic observance noted on the municipal events calendar.

Vancouver Island – Memorial Stations (Aug 25–31)

Purple chair memorial exhibits at 18 Island Health service locations (Campbell River, Comox Valley, Nanaimo, Oceanside, Port Alberni, Duncan, Westshore, Victoria).
Community events on/around Aug 31 include Campbell River, Duncan, Parksville (candlelight vigil), Sooke, Victoria (evening vigil), and more.

Note on Kitsilano: In recent years, families (including Moms Stop the Harm) have hosted a powerful memorial at Kitsilano Beach with ribbons, a labyrinth, and lock memorials. If a Kitsilano gathering is announced for 2025, I’ll update this section—watch local organizers’ channels.

We All Know Someone. Choose to Help.

Nearly every family knows someone touched by addiction. Please help us be part of the solution:

Don’t judge. Addiction is often rooted in trauma and grief.
Don’t use alone. If you must, use a buddy, a supervised site, or a virtual spotting service.
Carry & learn naloxone (Narcan). Free kits and quick training save lives.
Reach out. Check in on people you love. Listen. Offer rides, food, or time.

To everyone grieving: you are not alone. We remember, we act, and we keep loving—together.

#IOAD2025 #EndOverdose #OneBigFamily #DrivenByHope

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

When Whales Rewrite the Rules: Shark Livers, Super-Groups, and Ocean Fertilizers

When Whales Rewrite the Rules: Shark Livers, Super-Groups, and Ocean Fertilizers

Have you ever heard of two orcas killing sharks and eating only their livers? I know—it sounds like some bizarre birthday buffet. But it really happened off the coast of South Africa. These clever, precise hunters targeted the most nutrient-rich part of their prey, leaving the rest behind. Nature’s efficiency—and strangeness—never ceases to amaze.

Then there are the whales ramming boats along the Iberian Peninsula, or the “super-groups” of 200 humpbacks gathering in places where whales usually stick to small pods. These behaviors make you stop and think: past, present, future. Whales are sending messages, whether we understand them or not, and our assumptions about the ocean are constantly being challenged.

I have a personal connection to all of this. My great-great-grandfather came from the Azores on a whaling ship at just 14—a harsh, exploitative world. But he married my great-great-grandmother, who was Songhees. The Coast Salish people hunted whales differently: taking only what was needed, using every part, and feeding the whole community. They treated whales with respect, honor, and gratitude—lessons our modern world could learn from.

And here’s where it gets even more mind-blowing: whales don’t just eat—they fertilize the ocean. When they release their waste, they create massive amounts of nutrient-rich “poop” at the surface, a phenomenon scientists sometimes call a “poonami.” This spreads nutrients like nitrogen and iron across the ocean, feeding phytoplankton, which are the base of the marine food web—and also absorb carbon dioxide, helping to combat climate change. When humans hunted whales to near extinction, we didn’t just reduce their numbers—we disrupted this vital ecological service, harming the ocean and the planet in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

David Attenborough has shown us whales’ intelligence, their social bonds, and their critical role in the ocean. These stories—from orcas snacking on shark livers, to whales ramming boats, to massive super-groups and poonamis—remind us of their power, their mystery, and their deep connection to life on Earth.

Whales have been here far longer than us. They shape the seas in ways we are only starting to grasp. Maybe it’s time we start listening, learning, and respecting the creatures that hold the oceans—and our planet—together.

Vancouver Residents Have No Power — And That’s Dangerous

⚠️ Vancouver Residents Have No Power — And That’s Dangerous

Let’s be real: we can’t remove a mayor mid-term in Vancouver, and Ken Sim’s record shows why this is a huge problem.

👀 What’s Happening on His Watch

Homelessness Sweeps: Tents on Hastings Street cleared in 2023 and 2025, often timed with high-profile visits. People displaced, belongings lost, all for optics.
Ethics Violations: Integrity Commissioner says Sim and ABC councillors broke open meeting laws. His response? “Not intentional.”
Business & Labor Concerns: Co-founded Nurse Next Door, criticized for eroding union jobs in home care.
Trump-Like Tactics: Media spin, deflection, polarization, and prioritizing his image over residents’ welfare.

The city suffers. The people suffer. And we have no legal recourse until the next election.

❌ The Problem

British Columbia gives citizens almost zero power to hold a mayor accountable mid-term. That’s dangerous. Imagine a Canadian Trump — unchecked for four years, with our communities paying the price.

🛠️ What Must Change

We need:

Recall Mechanisms – Let citizens remove harmful leaders.
Stronger Ethics Enforcement – Breaches should carry real consequences.
Mandatory Transparency – Immediate public reporting on actions affecting vulnerable people.
Community Oversight Boards – Independent citizen committees to review controversial policies.

⚡ Call to Action

Vancouver, we can’t sit idle. We need legal tools, we need accountability, and we need them now. Ken Sim’s term shows what happens when politicians act unchecked.

Let’s demand change before it’s too late. Our city, our rules, our voices.

BC's Childcare Crisis: When Experience Isn’t Enough

Imagine spending your life caring for children and vulnerable people—babysitting as a kid, working as a nanny, providing home support, raising your own child, and even caring for people with severe brain injuries. Decades of experience. Skills honed in the real world. Yet in British Columbia, without an official Early Childhood Education (ECE) credential, you’re often barred from even applying for childcare jobs.

This isn’t just frustrating—it’s a systemic problem. The government funds online ECE courses, sure, but they require 2–3 years of training just to get into a job that barely covers rent and bills. Meanwhile, real-life caregivers are left out, and children and families suffer from a workforce shortage.

What’s worse, the rigid rules ignore the value of experience, compassion, and practical know-how. Post-COVID, the shortage has worsened, but the solution isn’t to force people through years of courses—they need a system that recognizes real skills and life experience.

We’re calling on policymakers, employers, and the public to wake up: the current ECE system in BC is failing both caregivers and the children who rely on them. Real experience should count. Skills learned in homes, classrooms, and through caregiving work should be recognized, not dismissed.

It’s time to rethink the rules. Time to value people over paperwork. Time to build a childcare system that works for those who actually do the work.

Share this. Talk about it. Demand change.

Monday, August 25, 2025

Dr. Oz and the B.C. Ostrich Drama

Dr. Oz and the B.C. Ostrich Drama: A Distraction in Plain Sight?

So… Dr. Oz is suddenly involved in a Canadian ostrich farm dispute? Yes, you read that right. Nearly 400 ostriches in British Columbia tested positive for avian flu, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) ordered a cull to protect public health. But the story quickly spiraled into a bizarre international spectacle.

The Basics

400 ostriches at a B.C. farm tested positive for avian flu → CFIA orders cull.
The farm claims the birds have been healthy for over 200 days and may have developed natural immunity.
Dr. Oz, along with U.S. billionaire John Catsimatidis, offers to relocate the birds to Florida for research.
The farm politely declines, wanting to keep the flock in Canada.
Legal battles continue, with the court backing the CFIA, and $35,000 USD in legal fees covered by Catsimatidis.
Scientists are split: some say immunity claims are weak, others think it’s worth investigating.

The Celebrity Factor

Dr. Oz is not just a TV personality — he’s a Trump supporter with high-profile connections. His involvement turns a local Canadian farm issue into international media coverage. Suddenly, a public health and agricultural matter becomes a “celebrity rescue mission,” drawing eyes away from more pressing or sensitive topics.

Possible Distraction Map

Celebrity Drama: People focus on Dr. Oz’s antics rather than the complexities of biosecurity or public health policy.
Political Timing: While headlines cover a weird ostrich story, Epstein-related or political controversies may get less attention.
Legal & Financial Spectacle: Billionaire-funded legal fees make the story feel like high-stakes drama, not a disease control debate.
Science Overshadowed: Nuanced discussion about avian flu immunity is buried under celebrity hype.
International Spotlight: Turning a local Canadian issue into a global spectacle further distracts from local policy priorities.

Bottom Line

This isn’t to say the ostriches aren’t interesting — but the timing, the celebrity involvement, and the billionaire funding make it a perfect distraction. While people argue over whether Dr. Oz should save the birds, bigger political and public health issues quietly slide under the radar.

Source: CBC News, Global News

Watching from Canada: What’s Happening in Washington, D.C.

Watching from Canada: What’s Happening in Washington, D.C. Feels Like a Warning

From here in Vancouver, the unfolding scene in Washington, D.C. has been chilling:

In the first 13 days under federal control, there were over 550 arrests.
By August 24, over 700 arrests had been made, and 91 firearms had been seized .

These numbers are staggering—and they prompt a pressing question: Where are all these people being taken, and under what justification?

Where Are Detainees Being Held?

The crackdown has hit immigrant communities especially hard. ICE agents have joined local patrols and set up checkpoints, detaining delivery drivers and others—sometimes those with no criminal record .

Those arrested are likely being held in ICE detention facilities or the District of Columbia Department of Corrections (DCDC), which operates the D.C. Jail and works with halfway houses. Still, the exact locations and process remain unclear .

Meanwhile, new directives empower the D.C. police to cooperate with immigration enforcement—sharing information and transporting detainees—marking a dramatic shift from earlier policies .

Why This Matters—From a Canadian Perspective

Here in Canada, we’re proud of our democratic traditions, our Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and our reputation as a society that values liberty. But from this distance, what’s happening in D.C. serves as a stark warning: rights can be chipped away one federal order at a time—often under the guise of safety.

The idea of using broad, catch-all phrases like “public safety” or “civil disturbances” to justify sweeping crackdowns on dissent doesn’t just belong in authoritarian regimes—it’s creeping into our neighbor’s reality, and that demands our attention.

Reflective Questions for Readers

Imagine if Canadian authorities federalized local police or deployed the military to crack down on protests. How would you feel?
Could Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms protect us from similar overreach? Or are there vulnerabilities we haven’t considered?
Do we have a responsibility to speak out when democratic norms erode in the U.S.?
How can ordinary people—on both sides of the border—guard against the slow erosion of rights?
If you were explaining to a younger generation why these events are urgent, what would you say?

Join the Conversation

What do you think?
I’d love to hear your perspective. Share your thoughts in the comments below, chat with friends or family, or post on social using the hashtag #DemocracyInMind. Staying alert, asking questions, and refusing to take our freedom for granted is how we preserve it.

A Message for You: Hope, Awakening, and the Power You Hold

🌍 A Message for You: Hope, Awakening, and the Power You Hold

Dear Young Ones,

When I first watched the video “2012 – A Message of Hope”, I felt something profound stir inside me. It spoke of awakening—not just seeing the world differently, but understanding that you are part of a bigger story, and your actions matter.

🌀 The Butterfly Effect: You Make a Difference

Right now, millions of people are being affected by disasters and conflicts—from over 500,000 evacuated in Vietnam to the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. It can feel overwhelming, like the world is spinning out of control. But even small actions—kindness, focus, learning, creating—can ripple outward and change the world.

A study in Washington, D.C., found that when 4,000 people practiced Transcendental Meditation together, violent crime dropped by up to 23% (Maharishi Effect study). Imagine what it means when more of us learn to calm ourselves, think clearly, and act with awareness.

🌿 Deepak Chopra: Settling Down with Nature

Deepak Chopra reminds us:

"If we settle down, maybe nature will."

You are not separate from nature, from the planet, or from each other. Taking time to breathe, reflect, and create is not selfish—it’s a gift to the world. When you find your inner calm, you contribute to the calm of the planet.

🖌️ Art, Creativity, and Meditation

Meditation doesn’t have to be sitting silently. Art, music, dance, writing—these are all ways to meditate. When you pour your heart into creating, you are sending out energy that shapes the world in ways you might not even see yet.

🏙️ Life’s Challenges: Staying Hopeful

You’ve grown up in a time of high rents, homelessness, and constant news of disasters. It can feel scary, unfair, and overwhelming. But hope exists, and it’s not naive—it’s active, brave, and necessary. You can learn, create, care for others, and step into leadership in ways big or small.

💡 Words to Carry with You

Albert Einstein once said:
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”

And also:
“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

Remember, the world may not always feel safe or fair, but your consciousness, your creativity, and your compassion matter more than you can imagine.

So keep going. Keep creating. Keep waking up. You are the hope the world needs.

With love and belief in you,
—Mom / Tina Winterlik

Sunday, August 24, 2025

What a Thriller Taught Us About How Nations Fall Apart

Have you seen Leave the World Behind yet? Beyond being a gripping thriller, this film contains a disturbing—but crucial—lesson about how countries can be destabilized. It’s more than fiction; it’s a wake-up call.

In the movie, G.H., the owner of a secluded Airbnb and a former CIA operative, reveals a three-step process that can bring down nations with frightening efficiency:

Isolation – Cut off communication and disrupt infrastructure. Think blackout, loss of internet, satellites down. Without information, society struggles to coordinate a response.
Synchronized Chaos – Spread confusion and fear. Misinformation, mysterious events, and disorientation make people distrust each other and question authority.
Collapse – Once isolation and chaos take hold, social order begins to crumble. Civil unrest, panic, and internal conflict accelerate the breakdown.

This is more than a plot device. It’s a reflection of real strategies that exploit vulnerabilities in our interconnected world. Technology, media, and infrastructure are powerful—but they’re also fragile.

Why You Should Care

Awareness is the first defense. When we understand how destabilization can happen, we can:

Demand resilient infrastructure and cybersecurity.
Think critically about news, social media, and information sources.
Strengthen community networks so fear and misinformation don’t spread unchecked.

Leave the World Behind isn’t just entertainment—it’s a cautionary tale. In a world where crises—natural, technological, or political—can escalate quickly, knowledge is a shield.

Don’t wait until isolation and chaos hit your community. Learn, prepare, and share. Knowledge is power, and understanding these vulnerabilities is the first step toward resilience.

Returning to a Surrey I Barely Recognize

I was born in Surrey, and although my family moved when I was six, I’ve always been visiting—family roots run deep here. But now, I hardly recognize Surrey anymore. The towers, the rapid development, the constant change—it’s not the city I grew up with.

I had spent the previous five winters in Mexico, enjoying a slower pace of life. With Covid behind us, I was looking forward to coming back and getting my job back—but that didn’t happen. Finding a place to live proved impossible. I even took a 55+ job search course, thinking it would help, but all I saw was people cleaning up and struggling.

The employment scene feels like a huge scam sometimes—LinkedIn posts, job portals, everyone scraping data—it’s like an endless loop. Employers want experience, skills, even language requirements I don’t have, and the system pushes people toward social assistance. But I haven’t gone that route. It doesn’t pay for rent or cover anything meaningful, and often just gives someone—probably a newcomer—permission to harass you.

So here I am, couchsurfing, walking dogs, cleaning—just trying to make it through. Every day I’m praying I can get back to Mexico this winter, because I barely recognize “home” anymore.

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just my experience. Surrey, like much of Canada, is feeling the pressure of rapid immigration. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, over 104,000 permanent residents were admitted to Canada, with many newcomers settling in Metro Vancouver. This influx has strained public transit, housing, and local services, and made the job market even more competitive.

The federal government has responded by reducing immigration targets—from 500,000 down to 395,000 permanent residents for 2025—to help communities cope. But even with these changes, the effects of years of rapid growth are still very real.

Coming back to Surrey was supposed to feel like returning home. Instead, I’ve been confronted with a city transformed, a job market stacked against me, and the daily struggle to make ends meet. I share this not just for myself, but for anyone else trying to navigate the same challenges.

Share Your Experience

If you’re facing similar challenges or have insights about returning to a changing city, I encourage you to share your story. Together, we can make sure people understand the reality of life in Surrey today.

History in the Headlines: What the World Shows Us

History in the Headlines: What the World Shows Us

1. Portland, Oregon (USA, 2020)

What happened:
- After George Floyd’s murder, protests erupted nationwide for racial justice (BLM — Black Lives Matter).
- The federal government sent tactical officers and National Guard troops to Portland under the pretext of protecting federal property.
- These officers used tear gas, pepper spray, and detentions, often without clear identification or due process.
Why it mattered:
- Civilians felt intimidated even if they weren’t protesting.
- The military-style intervention blurred the line between law enforcement and military power.
- It created fear and mistrust toward the federal government.
Lesson: Militarized response to social unrest can escalate tensions and erode civil liberties.

2. Hong Kong (2019–2020)

What happened:
- Pro-democracy protests against a controversial extradition law grew into massive movements.
- Police used tear gas, rubber bullets, mass arrests, and curfews to control citizens.
- The government also used surveillance and social pressure to suppress dissent.
Lesson: Aggressive policing can suppress protest and create fear, making ordinary citizens hesitant to speak out.

3. Turkey (2016–present)

What happened:
- After a failed coup in 2016, President Erdoğan declared a state of emergency.
- Thousands of judges, teachers, journalists, and civil servants were arrested or dismissed.
- Emergency powers were used to bypass normal legal processes.
Lesson: Legal loopholes and emergency powers can rapidly centralize authority and suppress dissent.

4. China (Xinjiang) & Venezuela

China: The government targeted Uyghur Muslims and other minorities, placing them in “reeducation” camps. Surveillance, forced labor, and restrictions on culture and religion were enforced.
Venezuela: The government used military and paramilitary forces to suppress protests, control resources, and intimidate citizens.
Lesson: Vulnerable groups are often the first to face repression; militarized enforcement can be used to control entire populations.

Is Canada Similar?

Right now, Canada does not have the same level of militarized enforcement against civilians that we’ve seen in Portland or Hong Kong.
Canadian law generally keeps the military separate from domestic policing, and civil liberties are strong.
That said, there are warnings if policies start normalizing aggressive enforcement on vulnerable populations (e.g., Indigenous land defenders, homeless communities). The system is designed to prevent widespread militarized control, but nothing is impossible if governments start pushing boundaries.

Is the Whole World Going That Way?

Some countries are seeing erosion of civil liberties, especially where governments exploit emergencies or social unrest.
Trends:
- Militarized policing of protests
- Targeting marginalized groups first
- Using “public safety” as justification for authoritarian measures
Not every country will follow this path — democracies with strong institutions (like Canada, much of Western Europe) have checks and balances that slow down authoritarian shifts.

💡 Key takeaway:

What you’re seeing in the US and other countries is a warning sign, not a guaranteed future for everyone.
Understanding history and global trends lets us recognize early warning signs and resist them before they escalate.

A Glimpse Into the Future: If Militarized Crackdowns Continue

A Glimpse Into the Future: If Militarized Crackdowns Continue

1 Year From Now

Militarized enforcement of social issues becomes normalized in major cities.
Homeless encampments and immigrant communities are routinely cleared, displacing vulnerable populations without long-term solutions.
Public fear rises as people witness the military being used in everyday life, and civil liberties begin to feel constrained.
Historical Parallel: Portland, Oregon (2020) — federal officers deployed to suppress protests created fear, confusion, and mistrust in government.

2 Years From Now

Expanded federal authority begins to target other forms of dissent — protests, unions, and activist organizations.
Local and state governments either comply or face political pressure to align with federal directives.
Public trust declines, and communities feel increasingly unsafe and unheard.
Historical Parallel: Hong Kong (2019–2020) — aggressive policing of protests showed how militarized enforcement can stifle civil society and intimidate citizens.

5 Years From Now

Use of troops in domestic affairs becomes routine under “public safety” pretexts.
Surveillance infrastructure expands to monitor gatherings, communications, and movements, especially in marginalized communities.
Homelessness, poverty, and social inequities worsen, as punitive measures replace support systems.
Historical Parallel: Turkey (2016–present) — emergency laws and militarized enforcement were used to suppress opposition and normalize authoritarian control over society.

10 Years From Now

Civilian life and military oversight blur: fundamental freedoms (speech, protest, assembly) are heavily restricted under the guise of “order.”
Early targets — homeless, migrants, marginalized groups — face systemic exclusion from housing, work, and basic rights.
Democracy is at risk; authoritarian policies take root under legal and procedural cover.
Historical Parallel: China (2010s–present) & Venezuela (2010s–present) — marginalized groups systematically targeted, and social control is enforced militarily and administratively.

Reflection

History shows that targeting the vulnerable first is never “just for them” — it’s a warning sign for society at large. The choices we make today, the voices we raise, and the actions we take will determine whether this becomes reality or whether we can preserve democracy and human dignity.

Answering the Hard Questions

Answering the Hard Questions About Trump, the National Guard, and Authoritarian Echoes

In my last post, I left you with three questions about what happens when governments use the military to crack down on homelessness and immigration. These questions weren’t rhetorical — they demand answers. Today, let’s walk through them together.

1. What happens when a society treats poverty and displacement as crimes instead of crises?

The result is suffering on top of suffering.
When people without homes are treated like criminals, they get fines, jail time, or records that make it nearly impossible to escape poverty. Instead of being offered housing, healthcare, or mental health support, they are punished for being poor. This doesn’t solve homelessness — it makes it permanent.

2. How much power should the military have in civilian life?

In a healthy democracy, the military protects from external threats, not internal struggles.
Soldiers are not trained social workers or community builders — they are trained for war. Using them against our own people crosses a dangerous line. The more we allow troops to manage civil life, the closer we move toward a militarized state where compassion is replaced by control.

3. If we don’t resist early abuses, how far might this expand?

History warns us that it never stops with the first target.
The vulnerable are always tested first — the homeless, the migrants, the voiceless. If society accepts this, the net widens: protests, labor strikes, political dissent, and even journalism could be next. Silence in the beginning guarantees deeper abuses later.

Why We Must Speak Out

Answering these questions reminds us that this moment matters. The way a society treats its most vulnerable is the truest test of its humanity. If we allow militarized crackdowns to replace compassion and justice, we are walking down the same dark path authoritarian regimes have taken before.

This isn’t just about the homeless in D.C. or migrants at the border — it’s about what kind of society we are willing to become.

Cracking Down on the Vulnerable: Why Trump’s Use of the National Guard Echoes Hitler’s Playbook

Cracking Down on the Vulnerable: Why Trump’s Use of the National Guard Echoes Hitler’s Playbook

History doesn’t repeat exactly, but it often rhymes. Watching National Guard troops being deployed against homeless encampments in Washington, D.C. while preparing wider “trial runs” in 19 states, it’s hard not to think back to how authoritarian regimes in the past — including Hitler’s Germany — began consolidating power.

1. Targeting the Vulnerable First

Hitler’s Germany (1930s): Early crackdowns weren’t immediately against political opponents. They often began with society’s most marginalized — disabled people, the poor, and groups labeled “undesirable.”
Trump’s America (2025): Homeless people and migrants are being framed as threats, with military-style force used instead of housing or social programs.

2. Dehumanization as Justification

Hitler: Propaganda portrayed vulnerable groups as dirty, criminal, or dangerous, paving the way for public acceptance of harsh measures.
Trump: Language around “illegals” and “public safety threats” paints migrants and unhoused people as problems to be removed, rather than humans in need of care.

3. Militarization of Civil Society

Hitler: Paramilitary groups like the SA and SS operated openly in streets, “restoring order” under the guise of protecting society.
Trump: The National Guard is being mobilized in a way that sidesteps traditional civilian law enforcement boundaries. Soldiers are not trained social workers — they’re a blunt instrument for complex human crises.

4. Legal Gray Zones

Hitler: Emergency decrees and manipulated laws blurred the line between legality and abuse, normalizing extraordinary state power.
Trump: Title 32 authority allows Guard troops to act under state control but in coordination with federal aims, avoiding some constitutional checks.

5. Expanding the Net

Hitler: Once the machinery of repression was normalized, it moved beyond the marginalized — first to political opponents, unions, and eventually all dissenters.
Trump: Today it’s homeless encampments and immigration processing. Tomorrow it could be protests, labor strikes, or political gatherings.

Why This Matters Now

It’s easy to look back and ask, “Why didn’t people see the warning signs?” The answer is often that people underestimated how targeting “someone else” could eventually affect everyone.

By criminalizing homelessness and militarizing immigration enforcement, this government is not solving social problems — it’s testing the boundaries of authoritarian control.

Reflection Questions for Readers

What happens when a society treats poverty and displacement as crimes instead of crises?
How much power should the military have in civilian life?
If we don’t resist early abuses, how far might this expand?

Friday, August 22, 2025

Not Enough Swimming Lessons — A Life-or-Death Issue

Opinion: Too Many Rules, Not Enough Swimming Lessons — A Life-or-Death Issue

Published: August 23, 2025 (Vancouver)

Why This Matters Now

I was at the beach today—where just hours later, a drowning occurred at Jericho. It’s heartbreaking how swiftly a calm shoreline becomes a danger zone. Waves shift. Winds pick up. Currents intensify. What feels safe in the morning can turn treacherous by afternoon. Yet far too many underestimate the risk.

What’s Happening—and Why It’s a Problem

Families are facing barriers to basic water-safety education. Some public pools interpret policy in ways that discourage parents from teaching their own children, even as lesson waitlists stretch for months. That’s the opposite of prevention.

See: Vancouver Sun: Parents blocked from teaching their kids to swim (Aug 22, 2025).

Underpinning this is the provincial BC Pool Regulation (B.C. Reg. 296/2010), which sets supervision and instruction requirements. The intent is safety, but strict interpretations can create a red-tape bottleneck where access to lifesaving skills is actually reduced.

Drowning: A Crisis That Demands Action

British Columbia

98 accidental drowning deaths in B.C. in 2024, down from 119 in 2023 (-18%). Source: BC Gov News.
52 occurred June–September (peak season). Sources: BC Gov News, Ha-Shilth-Sa.
77% of victims were male; highest-risk 50–59 (20%), then 60–69 and 70+ (15% each). Source: Ha-Shilth-Sa.
Most fatalities were in rivers/creeks (33%) and lakes/ponds (24%)—often unsupervised natural waters. Sources: BC Gov News, Ha-Shilth-Sa.
In 2025 so far, B.C. & Yukon report 29 drownings; 77% male; 63% May–September; 86% of child victims were unsupervised or had distracted supervision. Source: Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon.

Canada (National)

Average of ~442 water-related deaths/year (2015–2019). Source: Lifesaving Society – Canadian Drowning Report 2024 (PDF).
Only about 1% of drownings occur in lifeguard-supervised areas—most happen out of sight of formal supervision. Source: Transport Canada.
For children under 5, lack of effective supervision is a dominant factor in incidents. Source: Transport Canada.

What Would Joe Fortes Say?

Joe Fortes—Vancouver’s beloved English Bay lifeguard—saved more than a hundred lives and taught thousands of children to swim. He led with compassion, access, and practical teaching, not bureaucracy. If he could see kids blocked from learning today, he’d be heartbroken. We should measure our policies against his legacy: do they get more children swimming safely?

Red Tape vs. Real Safety

My parents taught me to swim at Kawkawa Lake in Hope, B.C.—no forms, no waitlists, just attentive, careful learning. Today, we’re drowning in rules while leaving families with too few pathways to acquire essential skills. That is a policy failure.

Action We Need Now

Free up access: Allow parents to safely teach their children basic skills in public pools and designated areas while they wait for formal lessons.
Expand lesson capacity: Fund more affordable pool and open-water programs, especially where drownings are most frequent.
Make water-safety core curriculum: Deliver Swim to Survive®/Be Water Smart® skills through schools and community programs.
Model Fortes’ legacy: Balance liability concerns with accessibility and education—saving lives must come first.
Everyday habits: Lifejackets near deep or shifting water; never swim alone; no impairment on or near water; constant, close supervision of kids.

Conclusion

Drowning isn’t about carelessness; it’s about underestimating a powerful, unpredictable environment—and about systems that block access to lifesaving skills. Joe Fortes showed us the way: teaching, compassion, access. Lives don’t wait for bureaucracy. Neither should we.

Sources:
• BC Gov News — Residents urged to practise water safety as B.C. reports decline in drownings (2025)
• Ha-Shilth-Sa — New study highlights risk of accidental drownings in B.C. (2025)
• Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon — WaterSmart® Education
• Lifesaving Society — Canadian Drowning Report 2024 (PDF)
• Transport Canada — National Drowning Prevention Week 2025: Safer together
• Vancouver Sun — Parents blocked from teaching their kids to swim in public pools (2025)
• BC Laws — Pool Regulation, B.C. Reg. 296/2010

Gentrification, and the Hidden Risks of Painting in Public

Murals, Gentrification, and the Hidden Risks of Painting in Public

By Zipolita (Tina Winterlik)

Watch First & Follow

I’m thrilled to share my reflections on Project Muralize, murals, and the awkward intersections of art, community, and visibility — but first, please check out my short video where I tell the story behind my mermaid murals under the Burrard Bridge:

And if you’d like to follow along with my future mural adventures, sketches, and behind-the-scenes process, please join me on Instagram:
📸 Zipolita’z Artworks

Murals, Memory, and the Power of Community

Reading about Project Muralize in Vancouver’s Chinatown fills me with both joy and a little sadness. Joy, because I think it’s a fabulous initiative—murals have so much power to transform spaces, restore dignity, and spark pride in a community. Sadness, because despite trying hard to offer my services for projects like this, I’ve often felt invisible, not picked, and left outside the circle.

That’s why I painted murals in Kitsilano—to keep creating, to give my work to the city, even when no one officially invited me in. I’ll never forget what someone from Goodbye Graffiti told me. He was assigned to paint over my mermaid murals under the Burrard Bridge. He explained that in Chinatown, whenever he painted over graffiti—or even murals—people would harass him. But erasing my mermaids was, in his words, “a nice peaceful day.”

There’s something deeply ironic in that. My work, which was meant to beautify and uplift, was painted over without protest—while elsewhere, communities fight to preserve murals because they see themselves in the art.

It’s Interesting Who Funds What

What I also find interesting is that it’s the police (through the Vancouver Police Foundation) who are funding Project Muralize. On one hand, it’s encouraging to see law enforcement recognize that art can be a powerful tool for community-building and even crime prevention. On the other, it raises questions about who gets chosen, who gets supported, and what kinds of art—and artists—are seen as “acceptable.”

Artwashing, Real Estate, and Who Benefits

We also have to talk about artwashing. Sometimes murals aren’t only about culture or community—they’re used to increase real estate value. Colorful walls can make a neighborhood look vibrant and “investment-ready,” even as longtime residents and small businesses are priced out. I love public art, and I believe in its healing power—but if it’s used to smooth over displacement, it risks betraying the very communities it’s supposed to uplift.

The Part You Don’t See: Safety

Another truth muralists don’t always talk about: painting in public can be scary. When I worked under the Burrard Bridge—or even in Kits— I wore my bike helmet not just for paint splatters but for safety. You never know what can happen when your back is turned and your mind is deep in the work. More than once, my gut said, “Get down right now, watch your back,” and moments later someone I was right to be nervous about showed up. Other muralists have spoken about harassment while painting in public—it’s real. Artists give beauty to the city, but we’re also vulnerable while we do it.

Why I’m Sharing This Now

I’m happy for the artists involved in Project Muralize and for the community pride that can come from it. I also share this to say: there are many of us who have been painting and dreaming for years, often without institutional backing, and sometimes even having our work erased. Art in public spaces matters, and it should belong to the community—not only to gatekeepers or real estate interests.

Life Update, Hopes & What’s Next

I haven’t been able to find steady work lately, and last winter I couldn’t make it back to Mexico—which was really hard on me. I’m hopeful I can return this year. I’m planning to write a book and, I hope, paint more murals—both here and there. That’s where my heart is.

How You Can Support Me

🔁 Share this post with friends and community groups.
📸 Follow me on Instagram: Zipolita’z Artworks
🎥 Watch & share my video: Rebel Mermaid – Part 1
🖌️ Hire me or commission a mural. I’m available for community projects, storefronts, and indoor spaces.
🤝 Introduce me to organizers, business owners, or festivals looking for artists.

Question for readers: Do murals belong to the community, or to those who profit from real estate? Who should decide what stays and what gets painted over?

Source on Project Muralize: Global News coverage by Kristen Robinson — “Project Muralize aims to revitalize Vancouver’s Chinatown.”

Saturday, August 16, 2025

The Hidden Devastation of Burrard Inlet

The Hidden Devastation of Burrard Inlet

A recent study by researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and the Tsleil-Waututh Nation has revealed something heartbreaking: nearly 90% of Burrard Inlet’s intertidal and subtidal ecosystems have been destroyed due to colonization. This is the first study to quantify the ecological impact of colonization on the inlet, highlighting dramatic declines in key species like herring, smelt, and eulachon, once the foundation of the food web.

This research echoes the stories I’ve heard from Elders of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation and other local Indigenous communities. They speak of times when salmon were so abundant you could walk across their backs, when eulachon oil was a vital source of nourishment, and when shores teemed with oysters, mussels, seals, otters, and whales—keystone species sustaining both the ecosystem and the people.

As I painted murals of whales, dolphins, otters, seals, salmon, and other keystone species, I shared these stories with passersby: tales of abundance, food security, and the deep connection between humans and nature. These were more than beautiful images—they represented life itself.

Walking along the shores now, seeing polluted waters and empty oyster and mussel beds, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of loss. The destruction is recent enough that we can still imagine the richness that existed not long ago. This study confirms what the Elders have long known: colonization has had lasting, devastating impacts, and our ecosystems are crying out for restoration.

The researchers and the Tsleil-Waututh Nation stress the urgent need to restore these ecosystems and revisit historical ecological baselines. But beyond science, it’s about remembering, honoring, and learning from those who lived in harmony with this land and sea for generations.

We may no longer be able to feed ourselves like we once did, but by listening, remembering, and taking action, we can begin to heal both the land and our communities.

Flight Attendants Back at Work — Here’s One Way We Could Fix the System

✈️ Flight Attendants Back at Work — Here’s One Way We Could Fix the System

This week, thousands of Air Canada flight attendants were ordered back to work by the federal government. Minister Patty Hajdu invoked the Canada Labour Code, halting the strike and sending the dispute into binding arbitration.

While this avoided travel chaos, it left the attendants frustrated. Why? Because their fight isn’t just about wages — it’s about unpaid work. Boarding, safety prep, ground delays — all of it counts as real work, yet much of it isn’t paid. CUPE estimates 10,000 attendants contribute over 4 million unpaid hours a year.

💸 The Money Is There

Air Canada’s CEO makes around $12 million a year. Canada’s top 100 CEOs take home an average of $13.2 million each, for a total of $1.32 billion annually.

Just to pay attendants for all that unpaid work at $60–$95/hr would cost roughly $210–$395 million/year. That’s covered several times over by the top 100 CEO salaries. The money exists; it’s a question of allocation.

💡 One Idea to Fix It

Here’s a government-friendly idea that could make this right without crashing the economy:

Luxury Pay Tax or Surcharge: CEOs earning above a certain threshold (say $5–10M) pay an extra tax. Funds go directly to cover unpaid frontline work.
Mandatory Fair Work Contributions: Companies contribute a portion of executive bonuses or stock options to a fund for employees if unpaid work disputes arise.
Legislative Protections: Make it illegal to not pay attendants for hours they work. This could be enforced through audits and fines.
Public Pressure & ESG Incentives: Highlight companies that do the right thing and shame those that don’t. Investors increasingly care about fair labour practices.

In other words, you don’t have to take CEO salaries outright — you can create rules and incentives that ensure frontline workers are finally paid what they’re owed.

✊ Why It Matters

Flight attendants keep Canadians safe and our skies running smoothly. Paying them fairly isn’t just a labour issue — it’s about fairness, public safety, and economic sense. And the resources are there; it just takes the political will and smart policy to allocate them properly.

Friday, August 15, 2025

Canada’s First “Unexplained Wealth Order” Exposes Shocking Abuse of Social Benefits

Canada’s First “Unexplained Wealth Order” Exposes Shocking Abuse of Social Benefits

By Tina Winterlik (Zipolita)
Sources: Vancouver Is Awesome, Castanet

In August 2025, Canada made legal history when the B.C. Supreme Court issued the country’s first “unexplained wealth order.”

It began in 2023, when Vancouver police followed a blood trail from a double shooting that led to a Victoria Drive home. What they discovered has now shaken confidence in our housing market and social support system.

What police found:

Nearly $1.5 million in cash hidden in the home.
Over 75 kilograms of cannabis.
Benefit applications declaring income under $1,000 a year.
Meanwhile, the owners had purchased three B.C. properties worth millions, all while reporting almost no income.

The individuals involved also applied for and received Canada Child Benefits and B.C. family benefits, funds meant to help low-income families who truly need them.

Why this matters for all Canadians

If this happened once, it’s almost certain there are many more cases. Every dollar scammed from child benefits, housing subsidies, or income supports is money stolen from families who desperately need help.

And every property purchased with dirty money makes rents and housing costs climb higher, pushing regular Canadians further to the margins.

A call for action

Canada cannot afford to look away. Fraud of this scale must mean:

Immediate seizure of assets gained through deception.
Deportation where applicable for those abusing Canada’s generosity.
Stronger financial enforcement so unexplained wealth is challenged every time.

This case must be a warning shot: Canada is not a safe haven for organized crime, fraud, or benefit scams. Our housing market, our families, and our communities depend on decisive action.

🔗 Read the original reporting here:
Vancouver Is Awesome | Castanet

Remembering 1999: Detox and Rehab Access for Women in BC

Remembering 1999: Detox and Rehab Access for Women in BC

Years ago, the BC Coroners Service released a shocking report: there were virtually no detox or rehab beds for women in the province. At the time, there were only about 10 publicly funded beds for men, and almost none for women.

The Chief Coroner then was Larry Campbell, who later became Vancouver’s Mayor. His work highlighted the deep gaps in addiction and mental health services, particularly for women, and sparked important conversations about equity and access.

The Reality Then

Women struggling with addiction had almost no options for safe, supervised detox.
Men had only a handful of beds, creating intense competition and long waits.
Many people suffering from addiction were left on the streets, in SROs, or in unsafe conditions.

This lack of resources was not just a number on a report — it represented lives at risk, trauma compounded, and opportunities for recovery lost.

Why This Matters Today

Fast forward to now:

Some progress has been made, but access is still inadequate, especially for women and marginalized communities.
Detox and rehab beds remain limited, and many are still released back into environments that trigger relapse.
The Downtown Eastside continues to see the human cost of systemic neglect.

Call to Action

Remembering 1999 isn’t just about history — it’s about urgency. Policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations must act to ensure:

Equitable access to detox and rehab for women
Adequate housing and support post-detox
Outreach and peer support programs that reach people where they are, especially during harsh weather or emergencies

Reflection

The 1999 report was a warning. The message was clear: when the system fails women, entire communities suffer. Today, we must not repeat the same mistakes. Lives are precious, and recovery must be accessible, safe, and humane for everyone.

Open Letter / Call to Action: Rain, Withdrawal, and System Failure in the DTES

Open Letter / Call to Action: Rain, Withdrawal, and System Failure in the DTES

To: @MarkCarneyBC, @DavidEby, @VancouverCoastalHealth, @VancouverPolice, @TransLink, hospital staff, outreach workers, and housing authorities

Today, people in the DTES are sick, traumatized, and desperate for help. Rain pours down on thin jackets and alleyways. Inside their bodies, withdrawal twists muscles, churns stomachs, and pounds hearts. Every nerve is raw. Every moment is dangerous.

Yet the system continues to fail them:

Detox beds are limited and often unavailable.
Discharge without housing sends people back to the same environment that caused relapse.
Bureaucracy, lack of coordination, and profit-driven models prolong suffering.
Public transit enforcement sometimes harasses and intimidates people who are homeless, adding fear and stress when they are already vulnerable.

This is not a failure of courage or willpower — it is a failure of policy, planning, and compassion.

We demand action now:

Outreach vans and teams ready to escort people into detox today.
Detox and medical staff prepared for arrivals immediately, not hours later.
Housing solutions ready to receive people after detox — no more sending them back to the streets.
TransLink and transit enforcement to treat people on buses, SkyTrains, and shelters with care, dignity, and respect, not intimidation or harassment.

The human cost is real. Lives are precious. Every delay, every closed door, every “wait your turn” risks a soul.

💔 We can no longer allow profit, bureaucracy, or indifference to determine who survives. Look at the streets, the SROs, the alleys, and the transit shelters. These are our neighbours. Act now. Every minute counts.

Open Call to Action: Rain, Cold, Withdrawal — Lives on the Line in the DTES

Open Call to Action: Rain, Cold, Withdrawal — Lives on the Line in the DTES

Imagine it: a person lying awake in a tiny SRO room or crouched in an alley outside Carnegie Community Centre.
Rain pours down, soaking their thin jacket. Cold bites through every layer. The street smells of wet garbage and urine.

Inside, their body is attacking itself. Their stomach twists. Their muscles ache. Sweat and chills fight for control. Their heart pounds as anxiety spikes. Every nerve is raw, every thought foggy. They are alone, sick, and desperate for help.

They want detox. They want a way out. They have the courage to ask, but the doors are closed, or the beds are full, or the phone won’t work. Every minute they wait is a risk — to their body, their mind, their life.

This is happening right now, in our city.

I am calling on:

Vancouver Coastal Health
Minister David Eby
Mark Carney
Vancouver Police
All outreach workers, social workers, hospital staff, and volunteers

We need action immediately.

Send outreach vans to pick people up.
Open beds and prioritize those ready to enter detox today.
Prepare medical teams to meet people where they are, not hours later.

No paperwork or bureaucracy should stand between a person and the care they desperately need. Every delay risks a life. Every closed door is a lost soul.

To everyone in this city with the power to help: look outside the office, onto the streets, into SROs and alleys. These are our neighbours, our community, our responsibility. Rain, cold, withdrawal — these are enemies no one should face alone.

💔 Act now. Every minute counts.