Riley Koyote on Building Community and Breaking Stigma in Harm Reduction
It's often that stigma and discrimination, if you will, against MAT is usually more within the recovery community itself, because they are the ones that feel threatened, right like outsiders, people who aren't struggling with drug use or addiction or recovery or any of that stuff.
Ever felt like the conversation around addiction needs a shake-up? Meet Riley Koyote, a passionate harm reductionist and advocate for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) from Athens, G.A. In this eye-opening episode of 'Challenging Pathos', Riley shares the latest strides in harm reduction and MAT advocacy in Georgia. But it’s not just about policies and programs; Riley’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of community building and peer support, especially for marginalized groups.
Riley talks candidly about their personal journey with addiction and recovery, shedding light on the challenges faced by those striving for change in the southern U.S. They dive into their work with the Athens Queer Collective and Access Point Georgia, organizations that provide crucial services like syringe access and support for the LGBTQ+ community. One of the standout points in this episode is Riley's emphasis on the power of language in addiction treatment.
They argue for more inclusive and compassionate approaches, highlighting how stigma can be a major barrier to recovery. Riley’s insights are not just theoretical; they come from lived experience and a deep understanding of the systemic issues at play. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on harm reduction and MAT advocacy, this episode is a must-listen. Riley’s dedication to fostering supportive communities and pushing for systemic change offers hope and practical solutions for anyone touched by addiction.