In a solemn tribute to the lives lost to drug overdoses, Governor Andy Beshear has ordered that flags at all state office buildings in Kentucky be lowered to half-staff on Saturday, August 31, in observance of Overdose Awareness Day. The Governor’s Mansion will also be illuminated in purple, a color symbolizing support for overdose awareness.
“As we recognize Overdose Awareness Day here in the commonwealth, we remember all those we have lost – each one a beloved child of God who is missed by their families, friends, and communities,” Governor Beshear said in a statement. “We must work together in their honor – to ensure every Kentuckian has access to recovery resources. We can continue to see a decline in overdose deaths if we make sure every one of our neighbors feels loved and knows they are not alone.”
Overdose Awareness Day, observed globally on August 31, aims to raise awareness of drug overdoses, reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and acknowledge the grief experienced by families and friends who have lost loved ones. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing epidemic that continues to devastate communities, particularly in Kentucky, which has been significantly impacted by the opioid crisis.
According to the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy, the state reported 2,250 overdose deaths in 2022, marking a slight decrease from the previous year. While this reduction offers a glimmer of hope, Kentucky still grapples with one of the highest overdose mortality rates in the country. The state’s efforts to combat the crisis include expanding access to treatment, supporting harm reduction initiatives, and raising public awareness about the dangers of substance use.
Governor Beshear’s directive encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations across Kentucky to participate in this day of remembrance and action. Communities are urged to join in lowering flags and illuminating buildings in purple to honor the lives lost and to reaffirm their commitment to supporting those struggling with addiction.
As Kentucky stands in solidarity on Overdose Awareness Day, the Governor’s call to action underscores the need for continued efforts to provide recovery resources and to foster a sense of belonging for all Kentuckians affected by substance use disorders. The observance serves as both a memorial and a rallying cry, reminding the state of the work that remains to be done in the fight against overdose deaths.
