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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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