Event Reflection

 Harm Reduction Workshop Reflection 

Going to the Harm Reduction Workshop helped me better understand ideas that I have been learning this semester. Before the workshop, I mostly thought about substance use and sexual health in a general way, but this experience showed me how these topics connect to bigger social issues like stigma, inequality, and representation. One of the main ideas we talk about in class is how society judges people differently based on their gender, race, and identity. This came up a lot in the workshop. Harm reduction is about helping people stay safe without judging them for their choices. This connects to what we learned about stigma. People who use substances or are open about their sexual health are often judged, especially women and LGBTQ+ people. The workshop showed me that instead of blaming people, it is more helpful to support them and give them resources to stay safe.

Hearing from Azhane Powell made this even clearer. It was powerful to hear real experiences instead of just reading about these ideas in class. In class we have talked about how people’s lives are shaped by larger systems like racism, sexism, and lack of access to healthcare. The speaker showed how these systems affect people dealing with substance use. It reminded me that these are not just individual problems, but issues connected to society as a whole. Another important part of the workshop was learning about the connection between substance use and sexual health. In class, we have discussed the idea of bodily autonomy, which means people should have control over their own bodies and decisions. The workshop supported this idea by showing how giving people access to things like Narcan and condoms helps them make safer choices. It is not about telling people what to do, but about making sure they have the tools and knowledge they need. The Narcan training was one of the most helpful parts for me. Before this, I did not realize how easy it is to use or how important it can be in saving someone’s life. Instead of relying only on hospitals or authorities, regular people can help each other in emergencies.

 The Harm Reduction Workshop helped me connect what I have learned in class to real life. It showed me that harm reduction is not just about health, but also about fairness, respect, and understanding. It made me think differently about how we treat people and how we can support each other. I now see that education and access to resources can make a big difference, and that small actions, like carrying Narcan or having open conversations, can help create safer communities.