Preventing Overdose Deaths in Black Communities

June 20, 2025

The article discusses the disproportionate impact of the opioid overdose crisis on Black communities in the United States. While overall overdose deaths have recently declined by 17%, Black and Indigenous populations continue to experience rising rates due to inequitable access to resources like naloxone and the lasting effects of the war on drugs. Kimberly Douglas, who lost her 17-year-old son Bryce to a fentanyl overdose, has become an advocate through her group "Black Moms Against Overdose" to create safe spaces for Black families affected by overdoses.

Who is affected

Black and Indigenous populations experiencing rising overdose death rates
Black families and communities with limited access to naloxone and prevention information
Parents like Kimberly Douglas who have lost children to overdoses
People who use drugs in Black communities facing stigma and lack of resources
Black community members who may be unaware of fentanyl risks in the drug supply

What action is being taken

Kimberly Douglas is running a Facebook group called "Black Moms Against Overdose"
The authors are launching a seven-city "Naloxone in Black" media campaign in late March
Some local health departments are providing free naloxone
Community leaders are being engaged to share overdose prevention information
Advocacy work is being done to combat stigma around drug use in Black communities

Why it matters

Half a million people have overdosed in the US over the past five years
Recent CDC data shows a 17% decline in overall deaths, but rates are still rising in Black and Indigenous populations
Access to naloxone could dramatically decrease overdose deaths among Black and Hispanic communities
The racist legacy of the war on drugs has created lasting damage that continues to affect Black communities
Every overdose death is preventable with proper resources and knowledge

What's next

The authors will launch a seven-city "Naloxone in Black" media campaign in late March to promote access to the lifesaving medication
Local governments should establish partnerships with Black community leaders to share overdose prevention information
Community members who interact with people who use drugs should be prepared to help with naloxone

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint