Despite the wealth of information supporting needle exchange programs and their ability to prevent HIV, many exchanges remain illegal and underfunded. The AIDS epidemic continues and people are dying.
Fire in Our House is a 10-minute video that illustrates the impact that needle exchange programs have had on drug users, their families and communities. As a strategic tool that personalizes the terms of the debate, Fire in Our House increases public awareness about needle exchange, influences policies and inspires grassroots mobilization.
At $15 per tape, Fire in Our House is accessible to individuals and grass- roots organizations to enhance their fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Fire in Our House is a MayDay Media production.
MayDay Media is a non-profit production and distribution group that uses video as the center force in campaigns that fight racism, sexism, classism and homophobia. MayDay provides a forum where, in collaboration with experienced and creative forces, active communities can carve out an integral role in the development and dissemination of culturally diverse and socially relevant programs.
The unique character of MayDay Media rests in the small, flexible crew, low-cost nature of the productions, innovative distribution plans, and investment of communities and activists in the project. MayDay Media is a project of Video/Action Fund.
Vanessa Vadim and Rory Kennedy are Co-founders and Executive Directors of MayDay Media. Vanessa Vadim is an independent producer and cinematographer. Rory Kennedy recently completed a 3-part documentary series and outreach project entitled Women of Substance. Emmy Award-winning producer Robin Smith is the Founder and President of Video/Action Fund, and consultant to MayDay Media.
For free preview copies of Fire in Our House and the Resource Guide, please contact:
MayDay MediaContact MayDay Media to get a free preview copy of Fire in Our House. Use the video in local efforts to increase the availability of needle exchange programs and other harm reduction efforts. Organize a screening of Fire in Our House. Collaborate with local needle exchange programs, AIDS services, health care providers, drug treatment practitioners, medical professionals, community leaders and elected officials. Consider special screenings followed by a panel discussion at local schools, hospitals, religious and community centers.
Work with other activists and educators to distribute Fire in Our House along with other needle exchange materials that are geared toward your local political climate.
Broadcast the video. Anyone can put a show on community access channels-take advantage! Invite needle exchange providers and AIDS activists to do a round-table discussion following the screening.
Send a copy of Fire in Our House to government officials at the local, state and federal levels. Urge them to support needle exchange programs. (See the government pages in your telephone directory for listings.) Follow up with a letter, phone call, fax or e-mail.
For information on existing needle exchange programs, contact:
North American Syringe Exchange Network (David Purchase)From The Activist Guide, Issue #6, June '95, DRCNet Publications section, A Guided Tour of the War on Drugs home page.
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