Centering Equity in Opioid Abatement Initiatives: Session 1 (CANCELLED)
Centering Equity in Opioid Abatement Initiatives: A Three-Part Training Series
Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances, our session “Setting the Foundation for Centering Equity in Opioid Abatement Initiatives” must unfortunately be cancelled. Please stay tuned for further details.
The overdose epidemic has disproportionately affected underserved populations, especially people who identify as Black, Indigenous, Person of Color (BIPOC) or Hispanic/Latino/x/e. Using an equity lens includes ensuring that those most deeply impacted by the epidemic in your community are actively engaged in decision-making related to the use of abatement funds. It also means carefully assessing how proposed activities and policies will impact these populations to avoid unintended consequences, co-creating solutions to address identified disparities and barriers to care, and ensuring that the opioid abatement strategies selected align with the needs of the community.
This three-part training series will provide practical guidance and tailored support to municipal leaders at varying stages of readiness to advance equity in opioid response efforts. The training series will provide a historical context of racism and other inequities in the substance use system, insights into addressing stigma, shaping equitable policies, and building inclusive community engagement strategies.
Each session stands independently, allowing participants to attend based on their unique needs and readiness.
Key Cross-Cutting Themes Across Sessions:
- Addressing stigma and gaining buy-in from community leaders.
- Engaging and involving those most affected by the opioid epidemic.
- Building stronger networks of organizations and community leaders.
- Identifying concrete steps for small community changes with long-term impact.
- Using evidence-based resources to support equity and inclusion.
- Establishing transparent and accountable communication strategies.
Session 1: Setting the Foundation for Centering Equity in Opioid Abatement Initiatives
Description: This introductory session offers an overview of the importance of centering equity and inclusion in fund allocation and community strategies. Participants will explore key principles, foundational best practices, and examples of successful equity-driven initiatives.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Articulate the value of centering equity in the context of opioid abatement fund usage.
- Explain health disparities in addiction, the history of racism in substance use disorder systems, and the importance of addressing stigma at the municipal level.
- Communicate the value of engaging individuals most impacted by the opioid epidemic.
- Identify foundational best practices for inclusive community engagement.