Patricia on the illusory distinctions between citizens, most painfully drawn in gastown/dtes

I live on Alexander Street between Main and Columbia; the city
considers the block the Downtown Eastside and the developers consider
it Gastown. In this city there are imaginary lines making distinctions
on how we treat citizens in these neighbourhoods. I don’t know that I
like either.

The City of Vancouver wants to overwhelm Gastown with even more bars
stools that would accompany another downtown stadium. In spite of
being a soccer fan, Vancouver does not need another stadium in the
downtown core.

And as for the Downtown Eastside, Malcolm Lowry says it better than I could.:

Christ Walks in This Infernal District Too
Malcolm Lowry
1946; 1950
Beneath the Malebolge lies Hastings Street,
The province of the pimp upon his beat,
Where each in his little world of drugs or crime
Drifts hopelessly, or hopeful, begs a dime
Wherewith to purchase half a pint of piss
Although he will be cheated, even in this.
I hope, although I doubt it, God knows
This place where chances blossom like the rose,
For on each face is such a hard despair
That nothing like a grief finds entrance there.
And on this scene from all excuse exempt
The mountains gaze in absolute contempt.
Yet this, yet this is Canada, my friend
Yours to absolve of ruin, or make an end.

–
Patricia M. BA, MEd, CHRP