What does it mean to "uplift" a neighbourhood?

Steve Johnston, Executive Director at Community Impact Real Estate, and Rebecca Bligh, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, came together for a fireside on what it means to "uplift" a neighbourhood — examining the tension between access and affordability, and the balance between personal dignity and urban development.

Grounded in recent policy discussions in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, Steve and Rebecca unpacked the gap between policy intent and implementation, exploring how cities can support meaningful change while honouring the needs and aspirations of existing communities — especially low-income residents striving to lead full and rewarding lives.