Over the past two years, I have loved being involved with this journal both as an editor and a contributing author. The quality of work and the dedication the team shows is just astounding and engaging in this journal has broadened my understanding of not only my narrower area of human but of the whole department.
As an editor, I had the opportunity to read snippets of wonderful work my peers have been producing, while being on the other end as an author really gave me space to delve deeply into one area, exploring more of the intricacies of social housing in Vancouver. Along with a team of fellow student researchers, we initiated a research project to explore the social dimensions of housing. Time and again, interview participants from non-profit groups across the lower mainland reiterated the importance of relationships for increasing stability. From these interviews, an observational study and from in-person survey data, we were able to codify the “Relationship First” model (see diagram below), which enabled us to call for a shift in how social housing is studied in Vancouver. We argue that social housing must be considered within an expansive frame, taking into account the relative positionalities of all Vancouver’s residence, which impact the creation of a mutually inclusive community.
Overall, being a part of this journal has given m the opportunity to both explore the discipline of Geography as I try to make it my own and develop vital critical thinking skills, whilst emphasizing the power of writing as a tool for knowledge creation and social change.
To learn more about the Trail Six journal click here.
