In the midst of an unusual April snowstorm I was called at 1:15 a.m. because I’m known to be a nocturnal creature. Three pals needed a ride home. I’m not upset by this. These late- night requests are a common occurrence within my ridiculous circle of friends.
What I am upset about were the hoards of people dangerously all over the roads and on the highway, trying desperately to flag down a ride. My friends explained the taxi line was more than two hours long, which is understandable in these weather conditions. Some were revellers, but some were just people trying to get home after their restaurant shift, their hotel shift or their cleaning gig. It was a mess.
I am furious this transportation strike has gone on for this long. I’m mad at the drivers for striking, I’m mad at their union for not resolving the issue, I’m mad at the municipality for not being a more vocal proponent for the workers of Whistler. I’m angry that our municipal [staff] hasn’t implemented some temporary, creative solution. I’m mad at BC Transit for subcontracting this work, thus leaving us vulnerable for months and months without public transport. (Can you imagine Vancouver functioning without buses for 60 days?!) I’m mad the provincial government hasn’t ordered the drivers back to work while negotiations continue, because they recognize the tax dollars generated here. It seems every level of leadership is standing around pointing fingers at each other (insert Spider-Man meme here) and no one is applying the pressure to end this urgent situation. I’m mad at everyone involved.
I’m furious that those affected are people whom this town counts on most. I’m so upset these foundational employees cannot rely on this Whistler community for their most basic infrastructure needs—to get to work, get their groceries and get to their appointments. I’ve been in this community a long time, but not so long that I’ve forgotten what it’s like to be young, working two jobs and without a car. We need to support these employees.
How dare all of you! I’m heartbroken and disappointed. But with a lack of clear leadership on this issue, I can only continue to offer my grassroots services to drive anyone I see struggling to make it home or to work— including three that night, on my return trip from Bayshores. Do better, Whistler. Our employees deserve better.
