Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking virtual presentation on Wednesday, November 19, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, exploring how language shapes our understanding of substance use, influences stigma, and impacts the effectiveness of harm reduction efforts. You can register for this free event here.

Featuring Karen Carmona, Program Associate of the Opioid Task Force of Franklin County and the North Quabbin Region, and Pedro Alvarez, Director of Harm Reduction at Tapestry, this presentation will explore how the language we use to engage with others can foster connection, demonstrate mutual respect, and enable us to collaborate on creating healthy outcomes.

We’ll also explore how stigma and stigmatizing language impact people’s ability to access harm reduction, obtain employment and housing, and seek and receive effective healthcare, among other key life needs. By participating in this discussion, you’ll learn about person-first language, ways to dismantle stigma, and build connections and hope.

This is part of the CONNECT 2025-2026 Education and Training Series. If you have questions or need more information, please contact Nicole St. Hilaire, Outreach Manager for CONNECT, at nicole@opioidtaskforce.org.