Ryan Hampton on Revolutionizing Recovery Support and Decriminalization
If the history of any type of like real, effective social justice movement has taught us anything, like we have to figure out what we agree on and work backwards from there. And I think, once we accomplish that, we'll be Light Years Ahead.
Ever wondered how we can truly make a difference in recovery support services? In this episode of 'Challenging Pathos', host Mark Burrows sits down with Ryan Hampton, a former White House staffer and national recovery advocate, to discuss the pressing issues surrounding recovery support. Hampton dives into the complexities of federal and state funding, highlighting the critical need for syringe services and the future of decriminalization.
One of the main points Hampton raises is the significant barriers to accessing recovery housing, stressing that people in recovery should have more control over their lives. He also critiques how states manage funding for recovery services, pointing out the lack of trust and integrity in ensuring the money is used effectively. Hampton passionately encourages listeners to get involved in advocating for better policies, whether by applying for commissions or running for elected office.
He believes that decriminalizing narcotic possession is a crucial step forward, even though it may be a slow process. The conversation also touches on the urgent need to scale up the peer workforce to support those in recovery, especially given the anticipated rise in overdose deaths due to COVID-19. Throughout the episode, Hampton's insights are both inspiring and thought-provoking, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people in recovery and the need for systemic change.
His message is clear: we must work together to break down barriers and build a better future. As he aptly puts it, "If history has taught us anything about effective social justice movements, it's that we need to find common ground and work from there". Tune in to get inspired and learn how you can contribute to making a difference in your community.