Tackling Stigma by Working with the Media

What: Tackling Addiction Stigma by Working with the Media: A virtual panel discussion about the intersection of addiction stigma, discrimination, and the media

Why: Journalists hold a large sway over public opinion in their communities. Reporting that perpetuates stigma can result in various, life-threatening barriers for people who use drugs, have a substance use disorder, or are in recovery. The panelists will discuss the ways we can respond and overcome that stigma, starting with improving the ways journalists report on addiction.

Who: We have an excellent panel of speakers with a range of experiences, including:

· Carlos Blano, Director Division of Epidemiology, Services, and Prevention Research - NIDA

· Caity Coyne, Health Reporter - Charleston Gazette-Mail

· Laura Lander, Associate Professor Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute - West Virginia University

· Abby Spears, Outreach and Policy Coordinator - River Valley Organizing

Who (part 2): Open to all - great for journalists, student journalists, people with lived experience, activists, researchers, clinicians, and treatment providers