Drug Policy 101:
How to be in the Room
A guidebook preparing people who use(d) drugs for engaging in drug policy processes
This guide is for PWUD who want to become involved with policy and decision-making processes. If you are new to this process, know it can be rewarding, exciting, emotionally difficult, confusing, and intimidating. If you feel this way or are overwhelmed, know that most PWUD, as well as decision-makers, have felt this way at one time or another. Remember, your personal experience provides you with a unique and valued opinion, so do not hold back if you have a question you feel is relevant. You were asked to participate so you could share your valued knowledge and expertise based on your experience. Many of us remember the awkward feeling at our first several meetings with not just politicians or bureaucrats, but with the many stakeholders that work and engage with PWUD.
PREFERRED CITATION: Canadian Association of People who Use Drugs, Touesnard, N, & Bonn, M. (2021). How To Be In The Room: A guidebook preparing people who use(d) drugs for engaging in drug policy processes (Version V7). Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5129252
How To Be In The Room: Training Modules
LLong Version of Training Modules
We created a set of training modules from a booklet we are currently developing about how to better engage PWUD in effective drug policy.
Short Version of Training Modules
Here’s a shorter version, focusing more on ways to get in the room through action and attention.