City of Worcester to Commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day with Vigil

Photo byZinko HeinonUnsplash

WORCESTER, Mass. – In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, the City of Worcester is set to host a vigil on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at City Hall, aiming to honor the lives lost to overdoses and to strengthen community resolve in combating the ongoing crisis of substance abuse.

Organized by the Worcester Department of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with various community partners, the vigil will serve as a poignant reminder of the personal and societal toll of overdose deaths. The event is scheduled to commence at Paul V. Mullaney Plaza, behind City Hall, with informational booths from local organizations opening at 4 p.m.

Keynote speakers for the evening will include Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) Commissioner Robert Goldstein, Worcester's Health and Human Services Commissioner Dr. Matilde Castiel, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, and City Manager Eric D. Batista. Their remarks will focus on collective efforts to address and reduce the incidence of drug overdoses and the associated stigma of addiction.

Dr. Castiel highlighted the significance of the vigil, stating, "It’s crucial for our community to unite and support those affected by the tragic consequences of overdoses and substance use disorder. This vigil is a call to action to diminish the stigma tied to addiction and to extend a helping hand to those in need."

The ceremony will include a candle-lighting segment, musical performances, and speeches from families who have endured the loss of loved ones to overdoses. This solemn occasion aims to foster a supportive environment where the community can come together in remembrance and hope.

Following the vigil, at approximately 5 p.m., attendees are invited to join a procession to the City Overdose Memorial at Winslow and Pleasant Peace Park at 374 Pleasant St. for a closing ceremony. This will provide another space for reflection and remembrance of those who have passed.

The City of Worcester encourages all community members to participate in this significant event to show solidarity with those impacted by drug overdoses and to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on prevention and recovery solutions. For further details or to get involved, please contact worcoverdoseawareness@gmail.com.