The normalization of drugs in NYC
It truly disappoints me that I’ve been ignorant for so long,the problem has been right in front of me and I decided to laugh with the crowd. Drug addiction in NYC has been normalized, I see more than a handful of addicts a day,the problem is obvious to everyone . Theirs no “well not many people know about it” because we do and we are just ignoring the problem.
The city is supplying drug addicts with the tools to do drugs “safely” as their way of “helping”. But this is just giving addicts more of a reason to do it out in the open/ more freely . This form of encouragement to prevent overdoses is the wrong way to do it. So called drug rehabilitation help centers are also a problem in NYC, they let those struggling with addiction continue using while “helping” them get clean. This system is corrupt and needs fixing.
“NYC unveils vending machine for drug users, with free crack pipes and Narcan for ODs” an article by Chris Pandolfo, a Fox News digital writer, informs us that NYC is placing vending machines around with tools to use drugs safely. As said in the article, “The big blue box was installed in Brooklyn on Monday and will offer potentially life-saving Naloxone to drug users who have overdosed on opioids, along with instructions on how to use the drug” stating that they are providing an easier way to take drugs. Additionally, the article also said, “The vending machine is designed to curb that trend by giving addicts free access to Naloxone, drug-test strips that detect fentanyl, and “Safer Smoking” kits that come with a pipe, mouthpiece, and lip balm for smoking crack and crystal meth. The machine also comes equipped with “Safer Sniffing” kits,” this is further encouragement to do these illegal drugs.
This is an attempt to prevent overdoses, which is a good thing, of course, but why not invest in better rehabilitation spaces? The purpose of rehab is to detox the patient and provide resources such as therapy during their stay so they can find a different outlet to cope with their situation. Additionally, once they leave the rehabilitation center, they are provided with several steps to keep up with their sobriety. This komonews article, “NYC spending $730K to install vending machines that dispense naloxone, clean needles” written by Zachary Rogers, a reliable reporter, suggests that the city has spent $730k on these vending machines. This is money that could have been used to fund rehabilitation centers. These vending machines are a temporary fix, while rehab provides a permanent, lifelong resource to stay sober.
In conclusion the city has to place their focus on funding a form of help with a more long lasting chance if change. The vending machines that the city is placing will help with preventing causes of death due to overdoses or unsanitary drug equipment but the drug user will remain an addict. What they use to take the drugs will be safe but the drugs aren’t , drugs kill on their own. That’s why I believe rehabs are a better investment and preventative and not vending machines that continue the problem and not help stop it .
