Petition to protect the health and safety of our community

We are petitioning for the prohibition of the sex trade in residential areas near our homes, schools and children. We suggest that the City of Vancouver creates an area that is safe for sex trade workers to work; where it is patrolled by the police; and where workers have access to street nurses, counseling and outreach workers.

Recently our community (Kensington/ Cedar Cottage especially along Kingsway) has witnessed a surge in the visibility of the sex trade near schools, playgrounds and homes. This is a serious health and safety issue for our children. It also leaves a psychological impact. With an increase of prostitution in our neighborhood, also comes drugs and crime. Our kids are witnessing the following:

• Dirty needles and condoms littering playgrounds.

• Uncapped dirty needle found on bus stop bench.

• Sex trade during daytime hours next to schools.

• Sex trade workers aggressively soliciting after being declined

• Sex trade workers aggressively chasing children and caregivers

• Intravenous drug use in doorways, within view of children playing nearby.

• Human feces on sidewalks, and in doorways.

• Young children handling discarded needles and condoms.

• Teenagers reporting that they feel unsafe.

• Men associated with sex trade intimidating lone women and teenagers waiting at bus stops along Kingsway.

• Petty theft off private property has increased.

• Increased break and entry to homes and cars

While the safety of sex trade workers is important, so is the safety of our children, families and community. The police seem limited in their enforcement. We need effective laws. Kensington Cedar Cottage is a family neighborhood with daycares, schools and parks. We have a strong, vibrant community. We would like to keep it that way.