OUR VISION
We envision a world where all individuals have access to the informed services and supports in seeking help for their substance use health without stigma or discrimination.
STIGMA
Stigma is best understood as a deeply held set of false beliefs about a group of people with at least one attribute in common. This allows the judgement, oppression and discrimination of those people to take place. This is done by either overt actions or silent complicity with those actions. (CAPSA, 2020)
CAPSA offers educational opportunities to engage in lifelong learning through training on the topic of substance use health, stigma, person-first language, and allyship. Stigma and judgement-free language about substance use health must become a priority that moves us away from presumptions of disorders and bad/harmful actions.
CAPSA acknowledges the impactful wisdom from individuals with lived/living experience with substance use disorder, including their family, friends, and allies. We believe in the importance in listening to people’s experiences through their journey to increased health and creating a meaningful connection within our community, free from stigma or discrimination.
CAPSA believes that in engaging in our community and being visible is a giant first step in ending stigma. Our events are open to everyone in our community. We are looking forward to meeting you.
The WOW (Working on Wellness) Festival will bring together Substance Use Health, Mental Health and Physical Health communities under one umbrella. Join us on September 16th 2022 at Marion Dewar Plaza in front of Ottawa City Hall.