02/23/2024
Since 1988, ACNL has provided comprehensive supports and services to individuals living with, affected by, and/or at risk of transmitting HIV and Hepatitis C. We have a long history of action within social justice movements, advocating for policy change at the local and Government level, to foster responsible decision-making and empowerment within our community. Because of our commitment to capacity building and our strong community roots, ACNL has become a leader in Newfoundland for education, awareness, advocacy, and harm reduction initiatives.
RIOT is not only a cool acronym, but also pays homage to social justice movements that have galvanized our response to inequity and oppression throughout history. RIOT provides an element of hope – helping to shape the future of harm reduction initiatives, as we continue to remain flexible to our community’s needs. Historically, substance use and addiction have largely been perceived as a “criminal issue” or “moral defect”, rather than a symptom of social and health inequity within our community. Harm reduction efforts – such as a mobile outreach team – empowers individuals by removing barriers such as stigma, and fosters connection to wraparound care supports and services within the local area. ACNL believes strongly in advocating for social change to minimize experiences of stigma and discrimination across Newfoundland and Labrador. The RIOT program is proud to include individuals with living experience within the mobile service, adding strength to the voices of our community members whom we serve. ACNL feels strongly the success of the RIOT mobile outreach service is contingent on the worth added by individuals with lived/living experience.
