Beth Macy: Tackling the Opioid Crisis with Hope and Justice
What we need more than anything is hope and, with this money about to come down from the opioid litigation settlements communities, a lot of communities have no idea how to spend it and we don't want it to go to potholes and budget gaps. This is a really serious issue that money needs to go to, where it will be most efficaciously spent to help people not die.
What’s the latest in the fight against the opioid crisis? Journalist Beth Macy joins hosts Jon Cohan and Gabrielle Dean to discuss her new book, 'Raising Lazarus: Hope, Justice, and the Future of America's Overdose Crisis'. Macy offers a compelling update on the opioid epidemic since her previous book, 'Dopesick', was released four years ago.
The episode dives into the critical role of harm reduction in addiction treatment and the pressing need for funds from opioid litigation settlements to reach grassroots organizations. Macy also highlights the responsibility of Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family in the crisis, emphasizing the importance of education and breaking down stigma around addiction. Through stories of resilience and hope, Macy illustrates how communities are fighting back against this epidemic.
This conversation is not just informative but also deeply moving, shedding light on both the challenges and the triumphs in addressing one of America's most pressing issues.