Conversations on substance usage have historically been wielded to demonize, degrade and vilify communities. These harmful tropes and gross media representations actively work to erase the generational trauma of surviving colonization, genocide and erasure. Led by Native leaders, this plenary will unpack the connections between experiences of poverty, substance use, generational trauma, violent historical exclusion, and the importance of loving our communities as we grieve, cope and survive.

Speakers:

• Christina Love, Senior Specialist, Alaska Network on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
• Clint, Peer Support Specialist, Alaska Behavioral
• Eva M. Gregg, BSW, Community Technical Assistance Coordinator
• Cecelia Westman