With August 31st marking International Overdose Awareness Day, State Representative La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, is remembering those we have lost and calling for further action on all levels of government to support those in need and save lives. “Every life is precious, and we have to work together to stop these preventable tragedies,” Ford said. “I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact of our harm reduction community. Overdose deaths are dropping nationwide, but we have to keep pushing forward – especially here in Chicago, where we do not yet see a decline in overdose deaths among Black men. We have to close this gap, but we cannot have new hurdles thrown up cruelly by Washington.” In recent months, amongst other healthcare cuts, the Trump Administration has looked to delay and possibly cut support for lifesaving addiction and overdose services. This critical funding is used to curb overdose deaths caused by fentanyl, methamphetamines and other drugs. For more information, please contact RepFord@LaShawnFord.com.

Photo Credit: Office of State Representative LaShawn K. Ford