MEDIA ADVISORY
Thursday August 29, 2019
Contact: Keith Brown keith@katalcenter.org (518) 527-6263
Follow on Twitter: @KatalCenter #IOAD #endoverdoseNY
Friday 8/30: Capital Region Community to Observe International Overdose Awareness Day with Rally & Memorial Activities
Despite another year of unanswered promises and demands for actions from Governor Cuomo and State Legislators that match the scope of the crisis, the impacts of drug related deaths and criminalization continue to be felt by communities across the Capital Region.
Albany, NY: On Friday, August 30th, Capital Region advocates and families impacted by the overdose crisis and criminalization will observe International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) by remembering those lost to overdose, and demand action to prevent future deaths. Advocates are demanding investments in harm reduction and other life-saving resources, , dramatic shifts away from criminalization, and the establishment of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in all settings including in New York State jails and prisons, among other imperative lifesaving actions. Building on actions in New York City and elsewhere, the event will feature the pop-up Safe Shape exhibit as advocates demand the opening of Opioid Prevention Centers in New York, as promised by Governor Cuomo.
WHAT: International Overdose Day Activities at the Capitol
WHEN: Friday August 30th 10:00 a.m., Rally at 12:00 p.m.
WHERE: West Capitol Park, South Swan St. by NY State Capitol, Albany
WHO: Capital Region residents impacted by overdose and the war on drugs and organizations working for reform, including Katal, Second Chance Opportunities, Albany Center for Law and Justice, Project Safe Point, the Alliance for Positive Health, Truth Pharm, VOCAL-NY, regional task forces, local treatment and recovery organizations, and members of the End Overdose NY Coalition
To find out more about International Overdose Awareness Day visit: www.overdoseday.com
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