Victoria's Voice Foundation Presents National Naloxone Awareness Day: A Call to Action on Capitol Hill

Marking National Naloxone Awareness Day on Capitol Hill

On June 6, 2025, the Victoria's Voice Foundation commemorated National Naloxone Awareness Day with a poignant event at Capitol Hill, aimed at addressing the escalating opioid crisis affecting countless families. The gathering called attention to the critical need for increased awareness and accessibility of lifesaving overdose reversal medications like naloxone.

This awareness day was initially established in 2023, with support from a bipartisan congressional resolution focusing on the importance of naloxone in preventing fatal overdoses. Over 140 significant sites across the country illuminated in purple, symbolizing solidarity and hope for those impacted by opioid misuse.

Leaders from the advocacy community, families affected by the crisis, lawmakers, and first responders came together to share their experiences and highlights the swift response needed to combat the opioid epidemic.

According to the CDC, naloxone, particularly noted as NARCAN® Nasal Spray, is essential for preventing tragic losses during opioid overdose situations. Its effectiveness is underscored by a reported 27% decline in drug overdose deaths in the U.S., attributed to the increased availability of naloxone during critical emergency situations.

Reflecting on Personal Loss

Jackie Siegel, co-founder of Victoria's Voice Foundation, expressed her heartfelt gratitude towards those who advocated for the recognition of this day. Her story began in tragic loss when her daughter, Victoria, succumbed to an accidental overdose in 2015. She stated, "On June 6, 2015, my daughter died in the presence of first responders who were not equipped with naloxone. Her death has become a pivotal moment for countless families, and I honor her legacy by spreading naloxone awareness to save lives."

At the ceremony, distinguished speakers included U.S. Senators Rick Scott and Ed Markey, who highlighted the alarming number of overdose fatalities occurring in presence of others. Their testimonies underscored the urgency in distributing naloxone more widely while equipping the public and first responders with this lifesaving resource. Senator Scott added, “This initiative addresses not just the symptom but the root of the crisis, ensuring we provide families with vital tools to prevent losses.”

Community Efforts and Future Goals

The event also featured discussions led by various notable figures from law enforcement, public health sectors, and advocacy groups, all emphasizing collaboration across communities. The involvement of organizations in tackling substance use remains critical, as one timely intervention could mean the difference between life and death. According to estimates, nearly 40% of unintentional overdose fatalities happen when someone else is present, making it imperative to educate those around potential victims.

Encouraging Broader Access to Naloxone

Emergent BioSolutions, the manufacturer of NARCAN®, announced their support for the awareness day, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing opioid emergency preparedness and the provision of naloxone in community settings. Paul Williams from Emergent stated, “We're dedicated to this cause, working alongside Victoria's Voice Foundation to remind stakeholders about their role in this crisis. On this National Naloxone Awareness Day, let’s empower our communities.”

As more iconic buildings turned purple in solidarity, so did many local governments issue proclamations recognizing June 6 as a significant day for awareness and action.

A Brighter Future

Victoria's Voice Foundation aims to continue its outreach, providing educational programs that have positively touched over 1.5 million individuals, enabling better understanding and prevention strategies regarding substance misuse. To learn more about National Naloxone Awareness Day or to get involved, visit victoriasvoice.org. In solidarity, we can collectively confront the opioid epidemic, ensuring fewer families experience the heartbreak of losing a loved one to overdose.