Miami, August 30, 2021 – Miami Dade College (MDC) will illuminate its National Historic Landmark Freedom Tower purple at sunset Tuesday, August 31, in support of International Overdose Awareness Day and Project Opioid Miami-Dade, a coalition that brings together business, faith, government, and philanthropic leaders to create a major impact on the overdose crisis in the community. The annual event is the world’s largest campaign to end overdoses, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the families and friends left behind.
The overdose crisis has increased at the fastest pace on record during the pandemic, and overdose is now the leading cause of death in Miami-Dade County for those 40 years old and younger. An alarming new trend has also emerged with a disproportionate increase in deaths in both Black and Latino communities, according to a study utilizing Department of Health data for Florida.
Project Opioid Miami-Dade is pushing for action on International Overdose Awareness Day. Several local landmarks, including MDC’s Freedom Tower, will be illuminated purple in solidarity, honor and remembrance of those who have died due to overdose, reduce the stigma of a drug-related death and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.
Additionally, the Beacon Council Project Opioid’s Advocates for Miami-Dade County is partnering to present “The Changing Overdose Crisis: How Can Leaders Respond?”, a complimentary statewide webinar for community leaders across Florida. The distinguished panel includes Maria Alonso, President and CEO United Way of Miami-Dade Board Member Miami-Dade Beacon Council and Leadership Committee Member Project Opioid Miami Dade. To register, please click here.
WHAT: MDC to Illuminate Freedom Tower Purple for International Overdose Awareness Day
WHEN: Tuesday, August 31, at sunset
WHERE: MDC’s Freedom Tower
600 Biscayne Blvd.