B.C. has introduced a proof-of-vaccine card that takes effect on September 13. In order to enter many ‘non-essential’ businesses, people will have to prove they’ve received at least one shot of an approved vaccine. After October 24, people will have to prove they’ve been fully vaccinated. 

Many people, however, will not be able to apply for the vaccine card. Ingrid Mendez is Executive Director of Watari Counselling and Support Services, and one of the co-signers of an open letter to B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix, and Chief Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry. The letter outlines the barriers many people face in obtaining a card, such as, “...people that don't have a BC ID or a government ID either because, you know, they're struggling and are on the street and will not be able to access an ID.” The letter also refers to drug users, and migrant workers as well as undocumented people. 

The letter’s recommendations revolve around, “...supporting community led responses.” But when asked if the government has reached out to the Downtown Eastside community, Ingrid’s response was, “As far as I am aware, it hasn't happened.”