Who Matters in Windsor's Opioid Crisis?

In Windsor, Ontario, a heated discussion unfolded over whether police should carry naloxone. This drug can save lives during opioid overdoses. The city took its time to make a decision. Other places in Canada acted faster. This delay raised questions about who is seen as valuable in society. The debate was not just about a drug. It was about who is considered human. People who use drugs often face stigma. They are seen as less important. This attitude made the discussion about naloxone more complicated. The media covered the issue, showing different views. Some thought police should have naloxone right away. Others were not sure.The delay in giving police naloxone showed a bigger problem. It showed that some lives are seen as more important than others. Police officers were seen as more valuable. Their safety was the main concern. The safety of people who use drugs was not a priority. The COVID-19 pandemic made things worse. More people struggled with opioid use. More lives were at risk. Yet, the city still took its time. This made people question why. Why was it so hard to protect everyone? In the end, police officers in Windsor got naloxone. But the reason was not just to save lives. It was to protect police from homeless people. This showed that the real issue was about who deserves protection. It was about who is seen as human.