Following a round table discussion, representatives of diverse communities from across western and south-western Sydney will hold a press conference today to discuss the experiences and needs of the people they represent when it comes to drug policy in NSW.
Ahead of the state's drug summit in December, they want to raise awareness of the consequences of shame and stigma for people who use drugs in this part of Sydney and the very real need for more culturally appropriate services and treatment options to save lives.
Also discussed will be the impact of over-policing and negative interactions with the criminal justice system in Sydney's west and southwest and how they perpetuate stigma and present a barrier to those who want to seek help.
Alexandra Hogan, Social Justice Lead at Uniting NSW.ACT said: "The roundtable is a way of bringing everyone together for a broad discussion about what people are seeing on the ground and what outcomes western Sydney needs from the Drug Summit.
"We can't forget western Sydney when making policy reform decisions following the upcoming drug summit in Sydney on December 4 and 5.
"The drug summit is a chance to find solutions and combat stigma. We must treat people with compassion, respect and dignity so we don't push them away.
"We want to increase health and welfare responses to drug use and dependency for every community – over-policing of some communities during COVID has shown why this is important.
"According to recent data from the Penington Institute, overdose deaths have surged to almost double the road toll, highlighting the urgent need for change," Alex said.
Polling, recently commissioned by Uniting NSW.ACT in southwest and western Sydney has shown that the community strongly supports a health and wellbeing response to drug use and possession.
A press conference will be held on Tuesday 19th November, 10.30am at Parramatta Mission, 119 Macquarie Street, Parramatta.
Uniting NSW.ACT runs the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre and has spearheaded the Fair Treatment campaign for fairer drug laws for over five years.
About Uniting Uniting NSW.ACT contributes to the work of the Uniting Church in NSW and the ACT, through social justice advocacy, community services and spiritual care. We provide services for people through all ages and stages of life, and drive solutions to systemic issues so people experiencing disadvantage can live their best lives. Our purpose is to inspire people, enliven communities and confront injustice. We value diversity and always welcome everyone exactly as they are.
