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[ [link removed] ]Dream.org logo: a purple letter D and an orange letter O intersecting
Dear John,
We are excited to announce that during the upcoming months, we will be
focusing our attention on a topic that has impacted so many of us. Drug
overdose continues to claim the lives of over 100,000 Americans each year.
Unfortunately, we are seeing movements in states around the nation and
federally to further criminalize drug use as opposed to getting people the
resources and support that they need. That’s why now, more than ever, we
want to provide education on the issues surrounding drug policies and
consider solutions that strengthen families and communities.
Acknowledging the Crisis:
Opiate addiction, especially the fentanyl crisis, coupled with the rise of
synthetic opioids like xylazine, is wreaking havoc in our communities. And
the issue is going to keep coming up because new synthetic drugs are being
produced constantly and will enter society. Many of us see these issues up
close — whether in our own cities, through news stories, or in our
personal experiences. The challenges of confronting addiction, supporting
loved ones, and breaking the cycle of incarceration are immense. Families
often endure the heartbreak and frustration of inadequate resources and
ineffective solutions.
[ [link removed] ]Click Here To Read Our Blog Detailing The History The Drug War, Media
Misinformation, and Mass Incarceration
Government Response and Legislation:
While communities struggle and people die from overdose, we've seen
knee-jerk reactions from lawmakers advocating for harsh legislation that
makes problems worse. Wrongheaded and dangerous proposals like charging
people with homicide or manslaughter as well as increasing mandatory
minimum sentences do not address the root issues. Incarceration is not a
solution to addiction; it exacerbates it.
What’s to Come:
1. Part 1: Series Introduction and Overview of the Issue
* We discuss the current state of the fentanyl and synthetic opioid
crisis, its impact on communities, and government responses.
2. Part 2: Personal Stories of Addiction and Incarceration
* Dream.Org’s very own, J Alexandria Garcia shares her journey
through opioid dependency, incarceration, and the challenges of
motherhood while battling addiction.
3. Part 3: Growing Up in the Shadow of Addiction (July)
* John Fabricius, Dream.Org’s Senior Campaigner of Engagement &
Legislation
* shares his experience growing up with an older brother
struggling with opiate addiction, multiple incarcerations in
different states, and overdose.
4. Part 4: Community Solutions and Non-Carceral Approaches (August)
* John Bowman, KY Senior Campaign Organizer here at Dream.Org,
highlights the work in Kentucky, uniting various stakeholders to
find non-carceral solutions, focusing on harm reduction and
access to treatment.
Support Crucial Legislation:
We are urging the Senate to pass the Re-Entry Support Through
Opportunities for Resources and Essentials (RESTORE) Act as part of our
efforts. This bipartisan legislation aims to repeal the ban on
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for people
convicted of drug offenses and allow them to apply to the program before
their release dates. The bill would also codify the USDA waiver that will
enable those who are incarcerated to apply for SNAP up to 30 days before
they are released, ensuring they can meet their basic needs as soon as
they reenter society, helping to support their success.
[ [link removed] ]Click Here to Sign the RESTORE Act Petition
We invite you to join us in making a difference. Together, we can create a
future where public health and safety go hand in hand.
Thank you for your commitment to justice and reform.
In solidarity,
— The Justice Team at Dream.Org
[ ] [ ]
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