Responsible Press?

There was a full page article in yesterday's edition of the Free Press.  A reporter had traveled to Calgary to spend time around the addiction recovery centre that the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre will be modeled after.  The focus was on re-assuring residents who live around where the Centre will be built that they will have nothing to fear.  They spent time at the facility interviewing staff and residents and also spent time talking to members of the community.  It focused on the many benefits that BORC will undoubtedly bring to our community.  It was assuring residents that they have nothing to fear and everything to gain.  

Don't get me wrong.  It was a great article. I hope it brought many people who may still have doubts to come around and accept the the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre will bring many benefits to all of us.  The ripple effects will be endless.  

However, where was this in-depth article a year ago?  It could have made a powerful difference a year ago when the opposition was rising.  It might have been able to prevent some of the bitter fights and some of the personal attacks.  It might have made the road to the Centre's reality have less high hurdles.  The healing could have not only started a long time ago, it could have prevented some hurts.  

I remember all the press coverage given to those in opposition and it seemed to entrench their position.  I remember a small gathering in recognition of Addiction Overdose Awareness Day.  About 50 people had gathered to share personal stories and speak their truth and to share support.  There were moving powerful stories.  There were three people who wouldn't listen and were even heckling personal stories.  When they left, the press followed them for comment rather than talk to the brave heros sharing their personal journeys.  

It is now spring and it is wonderful that the press is promoting the thawing of some misguided assumptions.  Too bad we had to endure the long winter, but, that's ok.  The Bruce Oake Recovery Centre will bring remarkable strength to our community.  All those who are still scattering seeds about this needed facility are still needed.  Thank you, Winnipeg Free Press for your story.  It was well done, but several months late.  

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