- Location
- zoom
- Series/Type
- Community Outreach Event, DLSPH Event
- Dates
- March 22, 2020 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Links
The lack of safe, affordable housing has and continues to be a major policy issue; decades of underfunding and the massive expansion of housing by for-profit enterprises and investors has caused this crisis to spin out-of-control. Recent reports have suggested that the demand for housing will only increase in the next few years and have indicated government interventions have been woefully inadequate. Housing is essential to life and it is often noted as the most critical social determinant of health. Housing insecurity and lack of access has contributed to a substantial increase in people experiencing homelessness in our region and beyond contributing to a worsening of many important public health outcomes including mental health and addictions.
While anyone can experience housing insecurity, Indigenous Peoples living in urban areas, due to issues of historical trauma, oppression, racism, and discrimination, experience homelessness at a disportate rate, with research suggesting Indigenous homelessness in major urban areas ranging from 20-50% or even up to 96% of the total homeless population. Moreover, substandard housing conditions on reserves and in Métis and Inuit communities have led some researchers and activists to argue for on-reserve housing to be considered a component of Indigenous homelessness.
How can we advance just, equitable access to housing? What makes affordable housing such an essential social determinant of health? Join TSPN as we explore potential ways out of this crisis with our expert panel of health care practitioners, mental health experts, and advocates for justice. The event will be held over zoom on March 22nd from 6:30-8:30 PM. Everyone is welcome to attend — regardless of whether you are currently a student, working, or anywhere in between. No previous expertise required!