Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Overdose Awareness Day
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Proclaim August 31, 2026, as Overdose Awareness Day in the City of Olympia.
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim August 31, 2026, as Overdose Awareness Day in the City of Olympia.
Staff Contact:
Melissa McKee, Assistant to the City Council, 360.753.8443
Presenter(s):
Christina McVeigh, Co-Director, Franklin Street Harm Reduction
Background and Analysis:
Each year hundreds of Washington State residents die from drug overdose deaths. Overdose deaths remain high across the state, impact urban, suburban, and rural communities and disproportionately affect marginalized populations.
Overdose Awareness Day shines a light on the need to treat drug-related harm as a public health issue and invest in evidence-based practices that save lives and build communities. It is also a day for Olympians to stand beside those who have lost loved ones to an overdose and those who have a substance use disorder and are diligently working toward recovery.
Climate Analysis:
This is not expected to impact carbon emissions.
Equity Analysis:
Communities across Olympia experience substance-use impacts differently, with overdose risk disproportionately affecting people facing systemic barriers such as unstable housing, untreated behavioral health conditions, economic insecurity, and historical inequities in access to healthcare. Marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, communities of color, and residents living in poverty, often encounter additional stigma and reduced access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
By recognizing Overdose Awareness Day, the City of Olympia affirms its commitment to reducing stigma, promoting harm-reduction strategies, and supporting pathways to recovery that are inclusive and equitable for all residents.
Financial Impact:
No financial impact.
Attachments:
Proclamation