Delta Commemorates Lives Lost to Overdose Crisis on International Awareness Day
Delta, a city in British Columbia, Canada, is taking a stand against the overdose crisis by commemorating the lives lost on International Overdose Awareness Day. The Delta Overdose Community Action Team (DCAT) and the City of Delta are hosting two events on August 31 to raise awareness and honor the 140 local lives lost to the toxic drug supply. These deaths are a direct consequence of the rising number of fatalities related to illicit substance use, which led the province to declare a public health emergency in 2016.
The goal of these events is to combat the stigma surrounding the overdose crisis, particularly within the Delta community. Phil Kristofic, the peer coordinator of DCAT, emphasized the need for open discussions about the crisis, as community members affected by it often refrain from talking about the cause of death. Even those who actively use substances do so secretly due to the shame associated with it. Kristofic states, This is happening everywhere in Delta and to the people we all know and love.
According to the BC Coroners Service, 2,272 deaths related to illicit substance use were recorded in the province in 2022, making it the second-deadliest year on record. Delta, in particular, observed 26 illicit substance-related deaths that year, the highest ever recorded in the city. Additionally, there were 161 emergency calls relating to illicit substance use. In 2023, seven more lives have already been lost in Delta. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for action and support.
To raise awareness and honor those who have lost their lives, Delta will host a memorial at the North Delta Centre for the Arts from 1-3 p.m. Purple ribbons will be hung to symbolize each life lost in Delta. Later that day, a vigil will take place in Ladner from 5-7 p.m. Candles will be lit and placed on the steps of Delta City Hall to honor each individual who has passed away.
Both events will have the presence of various local service providers, and the DCAT will offer mental health and substance use resources, including harm reduction supplies. The public is strongly encouraged to participate and show support.
Mayor George Harvie of Delta recognizes the urgency of addressing the crisis and ending the stigma associated with substance use. He stated, We need to end the stigma by educating ourselves and others about the realities of substance use and the resources available for those who need help. No one should be left behind.
In conjunction with International Overdose Awareness Day, the DCAT recently unveiled an art installation titled Connecting Delta Through Art. The aim of this project is to reduce stigma surrounding substance use while emphasizing the importance of connection during the ongoing toxic drug crisis.
The art installation, located at the South Delta Recreation Centre, features a drawing by local artist Curtis Miller Joe. Community members have contributed to the piece by sharing their experiences with community connection. The artwork is mounted on a large 3D heart-shaped structure created by individuals with substance use experience.
Participants in the community connection project have the chance to win a pair of three-day passes to the Barnside Harvest Music Festival, happening in September at Paterson Park in Ladner.
Delta’s Overdose Community Action Team and the City of Delta are committed to supporting the mental and physical health of their community. They are working tirelessly to combat the overdose crisis and provide resources and support to those in need.
As Delta commemorates the lives lost and raises awareness on International Overdose Awareness Day, it is a reminder that collective efforts are required to address this crisis and ensure that no one is left behind.
