The human cost of the poisoned drug supply is not well understood.
But a local organization promoting awareness and compassion about B.C.'s overdose crisis is hoping to change that through creative expression.
This weekend, the Tri-Cities Community Action Team (TCCAT) is hosting a trio of events in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody to mark the international effort to halt the global overdose crisis.
"By holding an event this year, the people of the Tri-Cities are joining themselves to a global movement for understanding, compassion, and change," stated TCCAT spokesperson Roxanne Saxon.
The BC Coroners Service's updated report showed 10 people died in Coquitlam from unregulated drug supply in the first six months of 2023.
However, Saxon says the numbers only tell part of the story.
"We want to recognize that these are people, not just numbers," Saxon noted in a news release.
Observed on Aug. 31 every year, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to create a better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use.
She hopes TCCAT's three events this weekend can shed light on the issue:
Port Coquitlam
- Friday (Aug. 25) - A Walk to Remember, Gates Park (2300 Reeve St.)
- Time: Meet at 5:30 p.m., 6- 8 p.m.
Walk from Gates Park to Aggie Park in honour of the lives lost, followed by a short vigil and a poem to remember those affected.
There will also be an opportunity to start a three-part community art project that will continue over the weekend.
Coquitlam
- Saturday (Aug. 26) - Creative Expressions of Social Justice, Blue Mountain Park (975 King Albert Ave.)
- Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
A pop-up tent event will be held, where service providers and artists will come together and raise awareness. Artists are invited to come to showcase their work around mental health and substance relationships.
A community art project will take place.
Port Moody
- Sunday (Aug. 27) - Creative Expressions of Social Justice, Pioneer Memorial Park (275 Knowles St.)
- Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
A pop-up tent event will be held, where service providers and artists will come together and raise awareness. Artists are invited to come to showcase their work around mental health and substance relationships.
Saxon said there's still room for artists and community events organizers to sign up to participate.
For more information, you can send an email to [email protected].
