Black Harm Reduction Network Virtual Conference
The National Black Harm Reduction Network hosted a two-day virtual conference in December 2021 with over 200 participants to discuss:
The meaning of Black harm reduction to Black communities.
How to protect and uplift the history of Black people leading harm reduction efforts.
How to center Black people in national and state changes in drug policy, criminal legal, family services, and health care systems by promoting Black wellness as the primary goal.
Introducing
National Black Harm Reduction Network
The conference was filled with presentations and discussions that highlighted the importance of the Network, and together we gleaned the following key takeaways:
Black participants want a Black-only space to convene around harm reduction.
There is a geographically diverse constituency of Black people who would like to participate in this work with us.
Our constituents believe that the definition of "Black Harm Reduction" should include mental health, the concept of health and wellness, and it should address health inequities.
The term "Black Harm Reduction" may not be sufficient. We want to focus on eliminating the harms that Black people face that impact our health and wellbeing.
Non-Black ally groups can support Black Harm Reduction organizations without leading or directing, or insisting on being involved in the work.
People are interested in a coordinated strategy to address the needs of Black people to achieve better health outcomes and wellness.
To learn more about the Network, click here, or feel free to reach out to info@nbhrn.org with any questions.
