By Samantha Johnson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on November 18, 2023.
reporter@medicinehatnews.com The Medicine Hat Drug Coalition, in partnership with the City of Medicine Hat, Medicine Hat Community Housing Society, is hosting an interactive exhibit at the Esplanade called Addictions Don’t Discriminate. The exhibit will coincide with National Addictions Awareness week and will be on display from Nov. 21 through Nov. 25. Featuring real-life stories of Albertans whose lives have been impacted by addiction, the aim is to break the stigma and create a safe space of supports, awareness and conversation. It is designed to inspire understanding, empathy and action with information booths, resources, Naloxone training, refreshments and opportunities to debrief, reflect and take action available. The exhibit is located on the second floor of the Esplanade and admission is free. The display will be open from noon to 5 p.m. daily with extended hours on evenings of Esplanade events. Coalition members and community volunteers will be available to connect individuals to the right resources if needed. Further information can be found on the Esplanade website under the experiences tab or visit https://addictionsdontdiscriminate.com/. To find out more about the Medicine Hat Drug Coalition find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mhdrugcoalition. Information booths available during Addictions Don’t Discriminate will include those on substance use, recovery communities and supports, basic needs, cultural supports, harm reduction and low barrier supports, mental health, along with grief and substance affected resources. Addictions Don’t Discriminate will be open on the following dates and times: Tuesday from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday from noon to 7 p.m. Friday from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday Nov. 25 from noon to 8 p.m. 14