The Harm Reduction Action Center invites you to join them February 10-21 in the rotunda on the second floor of the Colorado State Capitol for a photographic exhibition that illustrates the human toll of those affected by overdoses in Denver. The images were created by nationally renowned photographer, and HRAC board member, Matt Slaby, in conjunction with HRAC's programs and puts a human face on an issue veiled in stigma and stereotype.
The efficacy of harm reduction is exemplified by the Colorado legislature's passage of several proactive laws over the past few years beginning with syringe access, then including the 911 Good Samaritan Law, Access to Naloxone for Third Party, and exemption of possession of syringes for syringe access participants to properly dispose of used syringes. The Colorado legislature supports good public health interventions. The exhibit is accompanied by Governor Hickenlooper's proclamation, establishing Colorado Overdose Awareness Day, joining us with the International community, that is annually held on August 31st.
According to the Denver Office of Drug Strategy, there are 5,000 injection drug users in Denver and an additional 6,500 in the surrounding counties. One in two is Hepatitis C positive and one in 10 is HIV positive. Colorado accidental overdoses have tripled in the last ten years, killing twice as many Coloradans as motor vehicle accidents.
