Resource type
Date created
2021-11-16
Authors/Contributors
Author: Ken Lyotier
Author: Johal, Am
Author: Melissa Roach
Author: Paige Smith
Author: Kathy Feng
Author: Alyha Bardi
Abstract
Ken Lyotier tells stories from his early days in the Downtown Eastside and how he came to found United We Can, an initiative by binners, for binners. United We Can creates economic opportunities for those who rely on collecting and returning recyclables for their income.In this episode of Below the Radar, Ken is in conversation with host Am Johal about building community in the neighbourhood, advocating for policies and resources to benefit binners, and reaching across difference to support our neighbours and make progressive change.
Description
Ken Lyotier has lived and worked in the Downtown Eastside since the late 1970s, and is the founder and former Executive Director of United We Can. Ken founded United We Can, a non-profit bottle depot, in 1995 in order to provide work experience opportunities and income for residents of the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. A community leader, Ken has advised the city of Vancouver and many other groups on social issues, such as medical and housing services and poverty alleviation in Vancouver's inner-City. His work has been well recognized. He is a recipient of the Medal for Meritorious Service by the Governor-General of Canada, an Environmental Citizenship Award by the Province of British Columbia, the Civic Merit Award by the City of Vancouver, and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of British Columbia. Resources:— United We Can: www.unitedwecan.ca/— Binners' Project: www.binnersproject.org/— CBC IDEAS documentary on Ken Lyotier: www.cbc.ca/radio/ideas/meet-ke…l-kennedy-1.5188962
Copyright statement
Copyright is held by the author(s).
Scholarly level
Peer reviewed?
No
External links
Language
English
Member of collection