Truth Pharm to attend presidential debate

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – A local organization dedicated to de-stigmatizing substance use is making a statement outside of tonight’s presidential debate.

Truth Pharm is heading to Atlanta for the political event. 20 individuals personally impacted by drug overdose deaths will be participating in a demonstration to highlight the fatal consequences of inaction and mismanagement of opioid settlement funding. For over four hours, they will be painting tombstones to memorialize loved ones lost to overdose and other substance use related deaths.

Kathy Staples, a member of Truth Pharm, says the effects of substance use is a non-partisan issue. She says it’s important to acknowledge those that have been lost as they advocate for change.

“The loss of the person isn’t just a today, tomorrow kind of situation. It’s a forever kind of situation. The impact that it leaves on families, for parents, for children, for children who lose their parents, it doesn’t change in one day. It exists forever. So, we need to keep having the discussions about how we reduce stigma and how can we help people and make sure people are acknowledged as people, no matter what,” said Staples.

Truth Pharm’s also organizes an annual local event called Trail of Truth. Trail of Truth aims to memorialize those who have been lost to substance use while calling on leaders for action.

This year’s Trail of Truth will be held on August 17 in downtown Binghamton.

To learn more, visit truthpharm.org

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