A Humane Response to the Overdose Epidemic: Exploring the Impact of 'Harm Reduction' in Erie
A Humane Response to the Overdose Epidemic: Exploring the Impact of 'Harm Reduction' in Erie
As the addiction and overdose crisis worsens in our community, diverse strategies to provide help are often collectively categorized as "harm reduction." This blanket term can describe conventional overdose prevention strategies (such as providing support services and reducing stigma), as well as more controversial measures (such as drug decriminalization and legalization). This lecture will define and characterize a variety of harm reduction measures, including naloxone distribution, medication-assisted treatment, needle-exchange programs, and supervised injection sites. As the term becomes clearer, we will assess its current use in Erie – as well as its potential to address addiction more effectively moving forward.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State Street, Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Tuesday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Parking: lot behind building, State Street, 33rd Street, 32nd Street, French Street
Dan Schank is an Associate Teaching Professor of English at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College. He earned an M.F.A. from the University of California, San Diego in 2003 and has spent his adult life working in academia, the non-profit sector, and the visual arts. Since 2014, he has been a frequent contributor to the Erie Reader, where he often explores issues related to crime, addiction, and social justice.
