Pro-Choice YQL Condemns Planned Closure of Mobile Supervised Consumption Site in Lethbridge

Statement

Apr 17

Lethbridge, AB — Pro-Choice YQL strongly condemns the proposed closure of Lethbridge’s temporary mobile supervised consumption site (SCS), a decision that prioritizes politics over evidence-based and life-saving healthcare.

A 2025 peer-reviewed study “We’ve lost a lot of lives:” the impact of the closure of North America’s busiest supervised consumption site on people who use substances and the organizations that work with them" highlights that supervised consumption sites reduce overdose deaths, improve access to health and social services, and do not increase crime. A “recovery-only” model further fails to meet people where they are and reinforces colonialist ideologies. Many individuals do not pursue recovery due to barriers such as:

Lack of stable housing or income
Previous traumatic experiences with healthcare or treatment systems
Fear of criminalization or child apprehension
Cultural unsafety, particularly for Indigenous peoples

Harm reduction does not oppose recovery. Harm reduction is a part of healthcare. The more individuals engage with supervised consumption services, the more likely they are to build relationships with care providers, access supports, on an ongoing basis as well as access treatment when ready.

Criminalization, displacement, and the removal of life-saving services reflect an ongoing colonial project that continues to harm Indigenous peoples. Policies that restrict access to care while increasing surveillance and enforcement contribute to this legacy of harm.

Our Calls to Action

The Government of Alberta to immediately halt the closure of the mobile SCS
Municipal leaders to prioritize evidence-based harm reduction over political pressure
Community members to write to their MLA's in support of keeping the SCS open.
Community members to get involved with local organizations like Sage Clan, Sage Sisters, and Arches.

Closing supervised consumption services will not stop substance use. It will only increase death, emergency wait times, isolation, and suffering.