One overdose is too many. Enough talk, take action!

MONTRÉAL, Aug. 25, 2023 /CNW/ - Association Québécoise pour la promotion de la santé des personnes utilisatrices de drogues (AQPSUD) and Moms Stop the Harm invite everyone to participate in Opération Illumination as part of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31.

Two people die from overdose every day in Quebec. This public health crisis affects a variety of people and all regions, regardless of the environment. It targets people who use regularly or occasionally, or who have been prescribed.

According to Chantal Montmorency, Director General of AQPSUD, "Overdoses kill more people than road accidents. The grief of loved ones who live their pain in isolation is complicated due to the criminalization of people who use drugs – all the more so for consumption partners who are often excluded from funeral ceremonies because of the stigma around members of our community. We no longer want to mourn our friends, children, loves and family in silence."

One of the most spectacular ways to honour those who have passed away is to light up buildings and public squares in purple. This year, we can already count on the participation of many community groups across the province, from Chicoutimi to Sherbrooke, Quebec City to Saint-Jérôme. Purple lights will come on as a sign of solidarity. Cities like Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines, Saint-Vianney and Saint-Fabien have acknowledged the day. La Grande Roue de Montréal, the Olympic Stadium Tower and the Quartier des spectacles also join the movement.

If your organization or company wishes to take part in Opération Illumination on August 31, or if you would like to participate alone, it is possible! This action would send a strong message of support to Quebec families affected by an overdose and help us end the stigma surrounding drug use.

For more information on Opération Illumination: https://aqpsud.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/CLIC-Illumination.pdf

On August 31, harm reduction organizations across Quebec are preparing commemoration activities. Visit www.aqpsud.org/jiss for more information.

SOURCE Association Québécoise pour la promotion de la santé des personnes utilisatrices de drogues (AQPSUD)

For information or interviews: Chantal Montmorency, Director General, AQPSUD, 438-935-8330, [email protected]