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How A Community Health Clinic Responded to the War on Drugs in Tijuana, Mexico: Exploring the Impact of Harm Reduction Strategies on Women Who Use Drugs in Tijuana, Mexico
Carolina Arredondo Sanchez Lira, a master’s student in Global Studies, conducted research on the impact of harm reduction strategies on women who use drugs in Tijuana, Mexico. Her research aimed to understand the social effects of these strategies and how they impact women who use drugs.
Method: Carolina partnered with PrevenCasa, a community health organization in Tijuana, to conduct her research. She collected data through semi-structured focus groups with women who use drugs, staff interviews, and daily observations. Her research plan spanned from Summer 2023 to Summer 2024.
Preliminary Findings:
- Marginalization of Women Who Use Drugs: The War on Drugs has led to human rights violations, including criminalization, physical and sexual assault, and structural violence against women who use drugs.
- Safe Spaces: PrevenCasa creates safe and inviting spaces for women who use drugs, providing services that reduce harassment and offer support.
- Social Effects of Harm Reduction Strategies: Harm reduction strategies have fostered community and resilience among women who use drugs, enabling them to support each other and report assaults.
Key Takeaways:
- Women who use drugs in Tijuana face a higher degree of violence and stigma.
- PrevenCasa’s harm reduction strategies are effective in reducing harm and promoting resilience.
- Targeted services and resources are crucial for addressing the unique needs of women who use drugs.
Conclusion: Carolina’s research highlights the importance of harm reduction strategies in addressing the needs of women who use drugs in Tijuana. Her findings emphasize the need for targeted services, reduced stigma, and increased resources for this marginalized population.
Impact of the Research: This research contributes to the growing body of literature on harm reduction strategies and their impact on women who use drugs. The findings have implications for policy and practice, emphasizing the need for targeted services, reduced stigma, and increased resources for women who use drugs in Tijuana. By sharing her research with PrevenCasa and other stakeholders, Carolina aims to inform and improve harm reduction efforts in the region.
Acknowledgments: Carolina acknowledges the support of various organizations and individuals, including the Center for Latino/a & Latin American Studies, the George & Conni Slape Professional Development Fellowship, and PrevenCasa. She also expresses gratitude to the women who participated in her research and shared their lived experiences.