CONVERSATIONS

Eh Ta Lar, Karen Community

Lar from KOM (Karen Organization of Minnesota) recognizes the urgency of this crisis and has joined forces with Humboldt High School via St. Paul Public Schools to combat this pervasive issue. He wishes they could have the funding to be in more schools throughout Ramsey County. The alarming reality is that 70% of the correction data reveals that individuals struggling with substance use issues have been exposed to drugs like Percocet, which are often laced with deadly fentanyl. To effectively combat this crisis, we need additional resources and more partners to join us in this fight.

Go to: https://mnkaren.org/

Ahmed, Somali Community

The Somali community faces unique challenges due to cultural differences between their homeland and the U.S. The younger generation struggles to fit into both cultures, while their parents hold firmly to traditional beliefs. This creates a communication barrier. Many are unfamiliar with NARCAN, a life-saving medication, which can lead to dangerous situations. Additionally, the community views alcohol and drug use as sins, making it hard to seek help. As a result, alcohol and drug support services are limited, requiring a culturally sensitive approach to education. Cultural and spiritual leaders are vital in ridging the gap between tradition and the need for support and education in the mmunity.

Y, Hmong Community

The Hmong community faces challenges similar to the Somali community. Y, who understands the struggle firsthand, knows that once you start using drugs and your family finds out, they may shun and push you away, seeing it as a disgrace to the family or clan. This rejection can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and mental illness. Y, a Certified Recovery Specialist at MRC, emphasizes the critical importance of ongoing support after seeking help. MRC is there for anyone, with or without insurance, and they will stand by you throughout your journey. It's essential to find what works best for you and it's important to know that you don't have to face this alone.

Go to: https://minnesotarecovery.org/

Myriam, African American Community

Myriam emphasizes that cross-cultural collaboration is crucial, urging all of us to network and continue the conversation while utilizing each other's resources. In our African American communities, healthcare disparities are a significant concern, with prevalent issues related to maternal health, asthma, mental health, and diabetes affecting our wellbeing. It's essential to connect with the community and prioritize health literacy. Instead of reactive measures, efforts like focusing on primary treatment, doing outreach, and keeping our communities healthy are key. At Children's MN, we welcome everyone, providing care to all, and turning no one away when they need emergency services. To address these challenges, we must engage in town hall conversations like this and work together, take legislative action, and focus on prevention.

Go to: https://www.childrensmn.org/

Jessie Saavedra, Latino Community

Jessie shares that life can be tough when you've experienced encounters with the police. Even if you are a professional but wear grubby clothes, you can still get stopped. Building trust and having open conversations with the police remains a challenge, even for public health servants like Jessie. Jessie mentioned that sometimes people on the streets are given Narcan, a life-saving medication, but it's taken away just 20 minutes later. Despite the obstacles, it's crucial to keep working on building relationships and trust. Additionally, it's important to know that it's legal to carry syringes, which can be essential for harm reduction efforts. Go to: https://www.ramseycounty.us/content/public-health-center

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