Join USARA Thursday, August 31st, 2023 from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm on the south steps of the Utah State Capitol to remember those we've lost, raise awareness and be part of creating positive change.

Each year International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized on a global scale. Hundreds will gather at the Capitol to remember our loved ones lost to overdose as well as raise awareness and promote recovery. Many of us have lost our loved ones to overdose but we CHOOSE to remember that for those still here and struggling, there is always hope for recovery.

These events seek to increase awareness about substance-related overdose, support people in recovery, provide education and support, and remember loved ones that we have lost. Celebrate hope and remember those who suffer in a night of healing.

This event is an opportunity to honor and show community support for those who are (or ever have been) in need of hope, healing, and recovery, those experiencing substance use disorder and friends/family who have supported someone with SUD. Each year, August 31 is recognized worldwide as International Overdose Awareness Day, which is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose and remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind. The campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises. Through this event, we acknowledge the profound grief felt by families and friends whose loved ones have died or suffered permanent injury from a drug overdose. International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message about the tragedy of drug overdose death and that drug overdose is preventable. Participating in our local event allows community members to come together in support of each other through a common experience. We are also able to continue educating the community about what substance use disorder really is and how to better support those who need it. #endoverdose