Raw Opium

Raw Opium is a feature-length documentary released in 2011 that explores the power and influence of the opium poppy, the raw flower processed to make heroin. The film shows the global influence of opium and challenges viewer assumptions about addiction and the War on Drugs.

Raw Opium can be used as an educational tool to better understand the complex interconnections between international drug policies, national agendas, and local programs and practices that relate to drug use. The film makes a compelling argument for a more effective, fact-based approach to drug policy, tying together multiple perspectives and the disparate arguments that are frequently made about opium production and trade, policies and addiction.  

For news, screening information and more, visit the Raw Opium Facebook Page. You can also connect with Raw Opium on Twitter.

Share Stories, Not Needles

Share Stories, Not Needles is an upcoming new video series produced in partnership between Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU), Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) and the Harm Reduction Strategies and Services Committee. The videos will provide detailed information about injecting safely, from obtaining equipment to using and disposing of it properly, which the makers hope will reduce harm and save lives.

VANDU provides workshops and training for drug users to stay safe and access support: “They’re here to help people and give people a voice.”

Share Stories, Not Needles contains tips, how-tos, and step-by-step demonstrations of safe injection by VANDU members. They have also produced video tutorials on safer use of morphine, heroin, dilaudid (dilly), crack cocaine and crystal meth.

Stay tuned for the launch!