Insight Pt. 2: Black Farmers Co-Op, Injection Drug Use & Infectious Disease Crisis

 Injection Drug Use & Infectious Disease CrisisThis week on Insight, we’re discussing a growing public health crisis tied to injection drug use and the serious infections impacting individuals, families, and healthcare systems across Philadelphia. From hepatitis and HIV to life-threatening heart and skin infections, medical experts across the region are working together to develop compassionate, evidence-based solutions rooted in prevention, harm reduction, and community care.Joining us is Dr. Jessica Meisner, Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Pennsylvania and SANA Clinic Medical Director at Prevention Point Philadelphia. Dr. Meisner discusses the rise in severe infections connected to injection drug use, the dangers posed by substances like xylazine and medetomidine, the importance of reducing stigma, and the collaborative efforts underway among healthcare institutions across the region.We also highlight the soldout INSPIIRE Symposium taking place Friday, May 29, 2026, from 8 AM to 5 PM at the John Morgan Building, Reunion Auditorium, at the University of Pennsylvania. The symposium brings together clinicians, researchers, social workers, advocates, and people with lived experience to focus on infectious complications related to substance use disorders through collaborative, community-informed strategies. For more information, visit:• Prevention Point Philadelphia Follow on social media:• Instagram: @preventionpointphilly• X/Twitter: @PPPhillyBlack Farmers Co-Op Anniversary CelebrationWe’re also talking about food justice, sustainability, and the importance of preserving Black agricultural traditions and land ownership. Joining us is Executive Director Dr. Carol Simonsand Stephanie James, Assistant Director to discuss the 4th Anniversary Celebration of the Black Farmers Co-op — “From Soil to Soul: Honoring our Ancestors, Feeding Our Future.” We explore the movement for food sovereignty, cooperative economics, and the ways farming connects culture, health, environmental justice, and economic opportunity in communities across Philadelphia and beyond.Dr. Simons shares why protecting Black farmers and Black-owned land remains critically important and how the Black Farmers Co-Op is empowering communities through sustainable agriculture and education. The Black Farmers Co-Op 4th Anniversary Celebration takes place Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Environmental Center, 700 Cobbs Creek Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19143. The family-friendly event will feature community activities, education, food, music, and opportunities to learn more about sustainable farming and local food systems. For more information, visit:Website: https://blackfarmerscoop.org/