Overcoming Stigma: People in Recovery Break into Politics
Thomas Higdon has always been involved in politics. As a long-time fan, he hasn’t limited himself; he’s committed, be it door-knocking for candidates or volunteering for their campaigns. However, substance use derailed his aspirations, leading him to believe his dreams of working in government were beyond reach. Fast forward to 2023, when he discovered the Recovery Advocacy Project’s "Run for Recovery" program.
Breaking the ShameCycle and Building a Bootcamp
Aligned with these sentiments is Courtney Gary-Allen, elected twice to the position of at-large City Councilor in Augusta, Maine. Her experiences drove the initiative to create a campaign bootcamp tailored for people in recovery. The bipartisan space aims to address the specific challenges of those seeking political involvement while in recovery.
The Run for Recovery program graduated its inaugural class in August 2024—comprising five Democrats, five Republicans, and five Independents from across the nation. For a year, the participants met once a month to learn about finance laws, draft position statements, and discuss openly their substance abuse.
The Impact of Recovery-Informed Programs
Thomas Higdon’s participation significantly impacted his perspectives. Not only did the class educate him about the technicalities of running for office but it also emboldened him—even braving dictated biases about his past misuse of substances. Higdon highlights the camaraderie and support within the group to be "groundbreaking."
‘We are on the cusp of something transformative," said Hilton. "People in recovery are stepping beyond voting to become policymakers."
Real-life Journeys and Campaigns
Hilton’s story mirrors those of the Run for Recovery graduates. For instance, Ryan Hampton is running for Nevada’s State Assembly while Racquel Garcia considers a state position campaign in Colorado.
These individuals have found that hands-on experience and support from programs designed for them, like Run for Recovery, make all the difference. Hampton, despite challenges on his campaign trail, stands strong, utilizing his recovery journey’s lessons to keep moving forward.
Courtney Gary-Allen explains that recovery communities are not effectively represented in decision-making positions. "People in recovery are eager to serve and influence policies," she underscores.
Bipartisan Advocacy: The Cusp of Historic Change
The Run for Recovery bootcamp marks a symbolic shift. It’s one of the few projects proving recovery residents are capable of holding leadership roles. "We are not just advocating," Gary-Allen emphasized, "we are stepping into positions to shape policy."
Call to Action: Get Involved in Recovery Advocacy
With the help of initiatives like the Run for Recovery program, individuals in recovery can break free from shame cycles and enter the political arena. Present opportunities exist not just to join as participants but as volunteers or even donors to support these transformative efforts.
If you are or know someone in recovery considering a political role, engage with the Run for Recovery program. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, support fellow advocates, or even run for office, get in touch. Let’s together reshape the narrative around recovery and push for more inclusive, support-oriented political landscapes.
Join the movement. Reach out to support the Recovery Advocacy Project’s "Run for Recovery" campaign bootcamp today!
