The Chicago Recovering Communities Coalition (CRCC) has launched a new statewide billboard campaign aimed at saving lives by normalizing recovery and reducing stigma associated with substance use, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by the opioid crisis.
The statistics are alarming; in Cook County, non-Latinx Black individuals accounted for 65% of all opioid-related overdose deaths in Chicago in 2022, with a staggering 78% of those fatalities being Black men.
In light of this distressing trend, CRCC has initiated its billboard campaign to promote awareness about the necessity of substance abuse recovery, especially among marginalized groups.
Dora Wright, CEO of CRCC, emphasized the significance of showcasing real stories of recovery through these billboards. By doing so, they aim to convey the vital message that seeking treatment is not just acceptable but encouraged.
“We can no longer hide from the local and federal government in terms of how substance abuse is killing our people in the city, and they shouldn’t be ashamed to ask for help,” Wright stated during an interview with The Defender.
This innovative campaign is made possible through a state public awareness grant and features genuine stories from individuals who have successfully navigated recovery. The goal is to dismantle the stigma surrounding treatment options for everyone, particularly people of color who face significant societal barriers.
“Substance use and mental illness are very, very highly stigmatized in the communities that we live in. One of the important elements of this campaign is to have a nonjudgmental way for people to seek help and have a safe space,” Wright said.
CRCC operates in Austin, which is one of the communities on Chicago’s West Side heavily impacted by addiction.
Wright described the urgent situation, stating, “If you come through some of our communities, especially in Austin, where we’re located, you see addiction and mental illness. You can’t help but see it, unless you’re blind.”
The intent of the billboard campaign is not only to spread awareness but also to reassure individuals that they are not alone in their struggles and that recovery is indeed achievable.
The statistics are striking; Wright explained that one in ten people seeking treatment does not receive it, which ultimately leads to tragic consequences in the community.
Focusing specifically on Black men, Wright noted that this emphasis is both intentional and overdue, pointing out that these individuals have long been at the forefront of the substance abuse crisis.
She reflected on the ongoing challenges faced by Black men: “It’s a known fact, as a licensed counselor for years, that Black men are leading the substance abuse overdose crisis, the crack epidemic crisis, the AIDS crisis.”
The consequences of the opioid crisis are compounded by funding cuts from both state and federal levels, which impact the availability of essential services.
Wright underscores that while many believe the crack epidemic is a relic of the past, it has evolved, often blending with newer and more dangerous substances like fentanyl.
“Fentanyl is now… the crack cocaine is also being laced with fentanyl. We have studies. We have data from the Chicago Department of Public Health and other states that it is still a part of this epidemic,” she asserted.
To provide immediate support, the billboards instruct those in need to call a designated 1-800 number that connects them to local recovery resources depending on their location, whether in Chicago, Lake County, or southern Illinois.
Wright hopes this campaign will spur an increase in individuals seeking help, fostering a safe space for conversations about mental health and well-being.
The overarching aim is to create an environment where reaching out for assistance is as routine as visiting a medical clinic for chronic health issues, such as diabetes or hypertension.
CRCC offers all its services for free, supported by state funding.
Wright affirmed, “If we can get you to treatment, we will get you there. Our goal is once you make that phone call, whatever it is that you need, we are going to get you to that place.”
Despite the hopeful endeavors of the campaign, CRCC faces an uncertain future due to the precarious nature of its funding.
Although their funding has been recently renewed, it is through a three-year grant that remains vulnerable due to ongoing federal budget cuts.
“The federal government has closed down all of the regional offices,” Wright stated, expressing concerns about the diminishing support for advocacy and ongoing projects aimed at addressing the crisis.
One critical initiative aimed at expanding Narcan distribution to public housing and senior residents has already been sacrificed due to funding limitations.
Wright urged the community, “As we speak, lives are being lost. We provide Narcan training, fentanyl and xylazine test strips, and transportation to food pantries and treatment centers—all they have to do is call that 1-800 number.”
To receive help or support for substance use or mental health issues, individuals can reach out to the Chicago Recovering Communities Coalition at 773-417-2045 or visit their website at www.chicagorecovery.org.
Additionally, a statewide 24/7 helpline is available at 1-800-419-2722, connecting callers to localized resources.
Wright concluded with a hopeful mission statement, stating, “The more we get this message out there, the more lives can be saved in our communities throughout the state.”
image source from：chicagodefender
