TULSA, OKLA – [December 12, 2023] – The Tulsa Health Department Regional Prevention Coordinator and the Coalition Against Prescription and Substance Abuse of Tulsa (CAPSAT) will host a spoken word open mic event dedicated to raising awareness about fentanyl, opioid, and stimulant overdoses within African American and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. The event will take place Friday, December 15 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Black Wall Street Liquid Lounge located at 10 N. Greenwood Ave, S-101, Tulsa, OK 74120.
The gathering will serve as an artistic platform, inviting powerful voices from the African American and BIPOC community to come together and share their experiences, stories, and perspectives through spoken word and music. Each artist will expose the raw truth, unraveling the intricate web of challenges that addiction brings into the lives of individuals, families, and the community at large. This event is an invaluable opportunity to break free from the silent struggles that often go unnoticed, confront stigma, and inspire change.
“Community members are welcome to join and experience the power of words,” said THD Prevention Specialist Donetta Jamieson. “Together we will raise awareness, advocate for change, and emphasize the importance of support networks and resources available for those struggling with addiction.”
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the focus on addressing this epidemic has mainly centered on white suburban and rural communities, with comparatively less attention directed toward Black or African American communities. Between 2015 and 2016, the rate of increase in Black or African American drug overdose deaths was 40 percent, surpassing the overall population increase of 21 percent and exceeding all other racial and ethnic population groups in the U.S.
The event will also provide the expertise of licensed therapists to offer support for those seeking someone to engage with. Anyone who is struggling or has struggled with substance misuse is invited. Those who have lost a loved one due to an overdose are also encouraged to attend. The event is free to attend, but spots are limited. Tickets are available at https://bit.ly/CAPSAT-The-Unspoken.
Visit Tulsa Health Department’s Substance Abuse Prevention program page for more information or please call 918-582-9355.
