CMHA BC is deeply saddened and concerned about recent tragic incidents across Canada, where individuals who were reportedly in the midst of a mental health emergency, died during an encounter with police. We send our care and condolences to the loved ones and community members forever changed by these lives lost.
We also recognize that racism, systemic injustice, the ongoing effects of colonization, and inequitable access to health resources are all profound risk factors in both the lead up to and during a crisis interaction.