40 Washington Square South NY ,10012 (view map)
Please join NYU Law SAFER (Student Advocates for Empowerment through Harm Reduction) for an insightful dialogue on Overdose Prevention Centers (OPCs) with Drug Policy Alliance. OPCs have been critical to reducing the fatal overdose rate in New York City and beyond, which disproportionately impacts Black and other marginalized communities. The impact of the ongoing War on Drugs has been devastating to millions of people in the United States. Overdose prevention centers provide a safe space for people to consume pre-obtained drugs under the supervision of trained staff, without fear of arrest. They provide access to sterile supplies and overdose reversal medication, as well as connections to critical health and social services. OPCs complement existing prevention, harm reduction, and treatment interventions. They are proven to save lives and improve health and safety.
From the War on Drugs to the current Trump administration, people experiencing homelessness, people who use drugs, and justice-involved individuals have been ruthlessly attacked, stigmatized, and marginalized. OPCs may become easy political fodder for the right wing as federal and state governments crack down on “crime.” Please join Drug Policy Alliance for a primer on OPCs and the fight to save and expand them, as well as how we can fight back against attacks.
Food and bubble tea will be provided! Donations to local harm reduction organizations are encouraged.
