Insite, North America’s first legal supervised injection site, opened in Vancouver in 2003. This innovative facility provided a safe space for individuals living with addiction to use substances under medical supervision. Spearheaded by harm reduction advocates and supported by extensive research, Insite played a pivotal role in reducing overdose deaths, preventing the spread of infectious diseases and connecting individuals to vital healthcare and social services. Its success in Vancouver has inspired the establishment of similar facilities worldwide, marking a significant milestone in the global movement towards more compassionate and effective drug policies.
VANDU, a constant advocate for harm reduction, played a pivotal role in advocating for and establishing Insite. Its members, many directly impacted by addiction, lent their voices to raising awareness and influencing policy makers, highlighting the importance of community-driven initiatives in addressing drug-related challenges.
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