Justice for All? The Potency of Language & Impact of Incarceration on People with Substance Use Disorders

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

9:00am – 10:30am PDT

Location: Room 615

Track Leader(s)

KB

Kim Brown

Senior Attorney
National Traffic Law Center
Arlington
JA

Joe Abrusci

Project Manager, DECP Eastern Region
IACP
Alexandria, VA

Moderator/Speaker(s)

James Eberspacher (he/him/his)

Director
National Center for DWI Courts
Alexandria, VA

Speaker(s)

JS

Julie Seitz, LADC, LGSW (she/her/hers)

Project Director
National Center for DWI Courts, MN

Addict. Criminal. Dirty. Hardcore. Alcoholic. Felon. These are common words used to describe justice-involved individuals with substance use disorders that can undermine successful treatment and recovery. The use of non-stigmatizing language can improve outcomes, strengthen community partnerships, and impact funding. Substance use disorders are treatable, when treated correctly. Learn how the language we choose impacts this population and how to provide alternatives to avoid stigmatization and re-traumatization.