Bonnie Watson Coleman: “This amendment would simply ensure that, as we address what has rightly been called an epidemic, we consider the unique…”

“This amendment would simply ensure that, as we address what has rightly been called an epidemic, we consider the unique impacts and issues of drug addiction for minority communities by adding an expert on minority health to the task force that is created by this bill. The dangers of opiate addiction are apparent across the board. Abuse of prescription opioids has contributed to a flood of cheap heroin to all communities. Over the past 4 years, we have seen a 269 percent increase in heroin overdose deaths in White communities, but also a 213 percent increase in Black communities, 137 percent increase in Latino communities, and 236 percent in Native American communities. With that in mind, it is important to remember that the opiate epidemic--both heroin and its prescription painkiller counterparts-- looks very different from the perspective of communities of color. The compassion and clemency that we are showing now and the evidence-based solutions we are embracing were needed long ago, way before abuse by predominantly White and suburban communities. As we craft the tools to solve this crisis, we must ensure the policies we create will help everyone affected. Adding an expert in minority health to this task force helps to make sure that the diverse needs of all Americans are represented at the table. We still live in a world of significant biases.…”