about US
Who we are
The National Black Harm Reduction Network is rooted in the history and brilliance of Black-led movements that have always reimagined what freedom, self-determination, and equity means for Black folks.
We are a unified coalition of Black harm reductionists, advocates, and stakeholders working to advance harm reduction principles in Black communities.
We formed to preserve the history and legacy of Black harm reduction work while elevating and shaping the current and future national discourse around Black harm reduction.
our pillars
Advocacy + Policy
Be the national voice that advocates for Black-centered federal & state public health, criminal legal system, and drug policies.
Subject Matter Expertise
Provide technical assistance on substance use and intersecting issues to community-based organizations and government entities.
Network Building
Support regional networks of Black-led & Black-centered harm reduction initiatives.
Technical Assistance
Provide supportive, sustainable mentorship, workforce development, and TA to Black harm reductionists.
Our Mission
The National Black Harm Reduction Network is dedicated to advancing harm reduction principles that optimize health and wellness for Black people who are disproportionately harmed by public health initiatives, the criminal legal system, and drug policies.
Our Vision
We believe that simply avoiding or reducing the effects of structural racism — manifesting as criminalizing substance use and mental illness — stops short of our mandate as Black harm reductionists. Reducing harm isn’t enough — it must be eliminated.
A Fresh, New Look!
We recently underwent a rebranding process, complete with a new brandmark that embodies the history, strength, and progress of our evolving network.
