A number of community groups representing marginalized and vulnerable people have penned an open letter to the province and the capital city, expressing concerns over funding for the Downtown Safety Coalition.
The City of St. John’s and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced $180,000 in joint funding last month for an education campaign to increase the reporting of crime when it happens. The Downtown Safety Coalition is made up of municipal and provincial government officials, the George Street Association, police, tourism and hospitality business owners, and Music NL,
The letter by First Light, Migrant Action Centre, Quadrangle NL, Stella’s Circle, Thrive and the St. John’s Status of Women Council, says they are concerned of the impacts of the initiative, specifically without representation or engagement from groups and people most likely to experience violence.
They question whether the campaign will have a real impact on safety and if the Downtown Safety Coalition has the expertise to make good use of the money.
