August 31, 2018

WHEREAS, International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized around the world as a day to acknowledge individuals whose lives have been lost and to raise awareness about the risks of overdose; and

WHEREAS, Overdose Awareness Day hopes to publicly challenge the stigma associated with substance use and overdose; and

WHEREAS, opioids are the leading cause of drug related deaths; and

WHEREAS, Thunder Bay has the highest rate of opioid overdose deaths in the entire province; and

WHEREAS, in Ontario, 1263 people died of an opioid overdose in 2017; and

WHEREAS, in Canada, 3987 people died of an opioid overdose in 2017, of which 92% were accidental; and

WHEREAS, Overdose Awareness Day acknowledges that overdose deaths devastate families, friends and communities. This day recognizes overdoses from all drugs allowing us to speak and educate more broadly about the issues while making a commitment to preventing future deaths. Accidental overdose is largely preventable; and

WHEREAS, Overdose Awareness Day sends a strong message to individuals who formerly used or currently use substances that they are valued.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Keith Hobbs, Mayor of the City of Thunder Bay, do hereby proclaim August 31, 2018 as International Overdose Awareness Day in the City of Thunder Bay.

Keith Hobbs,
Mayor
City of Thunder Bay