ARDA and AMMAR delivered 39 kits with glass pipes, nozzles, and filters at Plaza Garay
Around the distribution booths, they set up a "popular kitchen" and a voluntary survey of consumer data. In total, according to the association, 33 surveys were conducted to gather information on the evaluation of the kits and consumption practices of those who participated.
The organizations defended the measure under the concept of “harm reduction”, an approach that seeks to lessen certain health consequences of consumption without establishing abstinence as a prerequisite for accessing support. ARDA also noted that it aims to repeat similar experiences in other provinces and continue the surveys to evaluate their results.
The development of the activity provoked questions on social media, particularly regarding the distribution of items directly used for consuming cocaine. Users argued that this type of initiative conveys a positive message towards the normalization of drug use.
The very communication used to promote the event also drew attention. The poster disseminated by the organizations featured in large letters the phrase “If a hit is on, let care be on too”, followed by the call to the popular kitchen as the main hook for low-income individuals.
Under the apologia for consumption and the slogan “If a hit is on, let care be on too”, two progressive organizations held an event in Plaza Garay, in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Constitución, during which they distributed free kits for the professional consumption of drugs with glass pipes for smokable cocaine.
The activity was organized on Wednesday, September 23, by the Harm Reduction Association of Argentina (ARDA) and the Association of Women Sex Workers of Argentina (AMMAR). According to data published later by ARDA, around 65 people participated, more than 50 meals were distributed, and 39 drug consumption kits were handed out.
The packages contained glass pipes, mouthpieces, filters, and instructions for consumption, materials that the organizations stated are specifically aimed at people who already use smokable cocaine. The supplies were provided with support from Smoke Works Harm Reduction.
“Care is a right. Also for those who use drugs,” ARDA stated while disseminating the results of the distribution during the event. The organization argued that the use of appropriate materials aims to "reduce risks" such as cuts and burns associated with the use of improvised materials for smoking the substance.
