"We know the streets:" race, place, and the politics of harm reduction. (July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Owczarzak, Jill; Weicker, Noelle; Urquhart, Glenna; Morris, Miles; Park, Ju Nyeong; Sherman, Susan G.
• Is Part Of: Health & place. Volume 64(2020:Jul.)
• Publication Date: 2020-07
• Subjects: Harm reduction -- Naloxone -- Overdose -- Opioids -- Peers; Health -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Health services accessibility -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Political planning -- Periodicals; Social medicine -- Periodicals; Epidemiology -- Periodicals; Health Policy -- Periodicals; Health Services Accessibility -- Periodicals; Public Health -- Periodicals; Public Policy -- Periodicals; Sociology, Medical -- Periodicals; Épidémiologie -- Périodiques; Politique sanitaire -- Périodiques; Santé, Services de -- Accessibilité -- Périodiques; Health services accessibility; Health -- Social aspects; Political planning; Public health; Social medicine; Periodicals; 613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102376
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-8292

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores how a peer-and street-based naloxone distribution program (Bmore POWER) reshapes narratives and practices around drug use and harm reduction in an urban context with an enduring opioid epidemic. Data collection included observations of Bmore POWER outreach events and interviews with peers. Bmore POWER members create a sense of community responsibility around overdose prevention and reconfigure overdose hotspots from places of ambivalence to places of grassroots action. It expands a harm reduction approach to Black communities that have not traditionally embraced it and that have been underserved by drug treatment programs. Policy makers should consider ways to use peers grounded in specific communities to expand other aspects of harm reduction, such as syringe and support services. Highlights: Harm reduction strategies have historically been unwelcomed in Black communities. Peer- and street-based naloxone programs can penetrate underserved communities. Peer programs can empower marginalized groups to combat race-based stereotypes. Geographically and experientially derived credibility are key tools of engagement.