Episode 102 (En anglais) | The Toxic Drug Crisis Podcast Series: Rethinking Decriminalization
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Episode 102 (En anglais) | The Toxic Drug Crisis Podcast Series: Rethinking Decriminalization
Broadcast Date: March 13, 2025
SUMMARY
Drug toxicity is a leading cause of death in Canada and around the world. Over the course of three episodes, we address three interrelated topics related to the toxic drug crisis. This final episode will review decriminalization policies in Portugal, British Columbia, and Oregon, and examine the mandatory treatment scheme in Alberta. Guests discuss how decriminalization is ineffective as a standalone policy and suggest additional resources that are needed to address the overdose crisis. Host Sarah Rowe discuss this issue and more with guests, internist and addiction specialist, Dr. Monty Ghosh, and criminal defence lawyer, Kyla Lee.
This series is produced in memory of Marc Alexander O’Keefe.
Guests
- S. Monty Ghosh, Doctor of Internal Medicine, Disaster Medicine, and Addiction Medicine; Assistant Professor, Departments of General Internal Medicine & Neurology, University of Alberta; Clinical Associate Professor, Departments of Medicine & Psychiatry, University of Calgary
- Kyla Lee, Vancouver Criminal Lawyer, Acumen Law Corporation
Host
- Sarah Rowe, Articling Clerk, Legal Aid Newfoundland and Labrador
BIOGRAPHIES
S. Monty Ghosh, Doctor of Internal Medicine, Disaster Medicine, and Addiction Medicine; Assistant Professor, Departments of General Internal Medicine & Neurology, University of Alberta; Clinical Associate Professor, Departments of Medicine & Psychiatry, University of Calgary
Monty Ghosh is an Internist and Addiction Specialist. He works with multiple community based not for profit organizations to provide support for marginalized populations and helps foster and create unique programs to support those living with substance use, experiencing homelessness, and with other vulnerabilities. He is an assistant professor at both The University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, and is heavily involved with provincial policy building in Alberta, as well as with research and is the primary recipient of grants from Health Canada, Alberta Innovates, Alberta Health, and the Canadian Institute of Health Research.
Kyla Lee, Vancouver Criminal Lawyer, Acumen Law Corporation
Kyla Lee is a seasoned criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience in DUI defense and a passionate advocate for justice reform. With a reputation for speaking out against overreach, she has been an advocate for the rights of individuals affected by the criminal justice system. Kyla’s work has led her to champion progressive causes, including drug decriminalization, where she examines the intersection of law, policy, and human rights. Known for her clear explanations and commitment to protecting individual freedoms, Kyla has spoken at numerous conferences across Canada and the United States, offering her insights into legal practices and the need for reform. Her experience as a lawyer, lecturer, and public figure positions her as a key voice in the conversation about the future of drug policy and justice.
Sarah Rowe, Articling Clerk, Legal Aid Newfoundland and Labrador
Sarah Rowe is a recent graduate of University of Ottawa’s Common Law program and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and French from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador. She is currently articling will be called to the Newfoundland and Labrador bar in June 2025. Sarah has legal experience in criminal law, family law, and immigration and refugee law. She is interested in social and justice issues related prisoner justice, drug policy, health, Indigenous peoples, the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and immigrants. Sarah worked at CIAJ during law school and is now volunteering with the organization.
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