To the editor:
The April 18, 2024 edition of The Terrace Standard contained a rather scathing report from the Office of Human Rights of BC on the prevalent socioeconomic issues with which Terrace struggles.
These days every town and city has its challenges; some more and some to a lesser degree. But we live here, so let’s talk about us.
In Terrace, Some of the issues far exceed provincial averages. The city and its citizenry should be deeply concerned, because all are very serious. And some of them have been here for a very long time.
Racism for example. Discrimination. A lack of Indigenous representation on city council. Substance abuse, lack of adequate treatment and its attendant mortality, lack of affordable housing. Yet in spite of this, what does the citizenry seem to focus on of late: naming the treasured new hospital.
Must be important. Everyone seems to have an opinion. Folks are concerned who names it and what. Some want change while others (sigh) want things staying the same as they’ve always been. Heck, one city councilor is even concerned the use of an aboriginal name may confuse tourists or those rarely visiting because they can’t pronounce them. Hmm, concerning issues indeed!
I never knew Dr. Stanley Mills, but from all accounts he seems like a truly wonderful physician. Many people received exemplary care from a man taken far too soon. It must have been an honour to have known him.
Yet would he be honoured these days to serve in Terrace? I suspect not overly much. This place likely wouldn’t mirror what he would consider a humane community.
Besides the aforementioned plethora of concerns, 92 people died in Terrace from overdoses between 2015 and 2023. At least two died from exposure to cold. There are only two detox beds in Terrace, and no rehab. These are the very things Dr. Mills would be more concerned about. And we should be as well.
Because at the end of the day, the name of the hospital and who names it really doesn’t matter. People do. Meanwhile, a plaque honouring Dr. Mills in the hospital lobby would work just fine. It’s still an honour.
But the hospital is just a building.
Rob Baker,
Thornhill, B.C.
