For the past 100 of the US's war on drugs, black and brown communities have always been the most affected by draconian drug possession sentencing, lack of recovery resources, peer support, housing, harm reduction tools and mental health healing. Our current systems as of today are still failing our people while the die at the feet of antiquated approached to substance use disorder care.

In 2021, the health disparities within the recovery community are deep seeded in discriminatory practices. The smoking gun as proof to these actions? Little to no linguistically and culturally appropriate services aforementioned. According to the US Congress Patient Bill of Rights Bill enacted in 1988, "Patients have the right to be treated with courtesy and respect for their individuality by employees or persons providing service in our healthcare facilities. Reasonable accommodations shall be made for those with communication impairments, and those who speak a language other than English." Section 1557 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), in covered health programs or activities.

Not having recovery support, family and harm reduction services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate is AGAINST FEDERL LAW. Currently, there is no penalties, fines or legal consequences that exists within this space that holds recovery community organization, rehabilitation facilities, MAT clinics or hospitals accountable of breaking these laws. Help us reach our to our government to hold our service providers to these laws by signing and sharing this petition. ALL OF US are deserving of life. 

Signed in Power:

Cultural Compliance Alliance

Yamila Rollan Escalona - Founder - Yaya por Vida

Angelo Lagares - Founder-  Latino Recovery Advocacy

Thomas Guerra - Co Founder - Miami Recovery Project