Historic Proclamation

PRESS RELEASE

The Path to Wellness Recovery Rally on September 24, 2022 in Kit Carson Park featured a joint proclamation by the Governments of Taos Pueblo, Taos County, and the Town of Taos. The proclamation supports recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) in Taos County. “There have been many issues over the years that received support from the individual government entities. This is the first time all three have signed on a single document. Supporting Recovery Month in Taos County is critical to bringing awareness to the disease that is affecting so many of our family members, friends and loved ones. SUD is an epidemic, and the stigma surrounding it still exists. The COVID virus has brought these realities to the forefront of our awareness,” said Lawrence Medina, Executive Director of Rio Grande ATP, Inc. Rio Grande ATP and its affiliate Recovery-Friendly Taos are leading the way in treating those afflicted with SUD. 

The Path to Wellness Recovery Rally brought the Town of Taos Mayor, Chair of the Taos County Commission, and the Lt. Governor and Tribal Secretary from Taos Pueblo to the stage to read the proclamation to the estimated 250 attendees. The proclamation was signed by Taos Pueblo Governor Clyde L. Romero Sr., Taos County Commission Chair Darlene Vigil, and Town of Taos Mayor Pasqualito Maestas. 

In addition to the reading of the proclamation, Jimmy Santiago Baca told about his recovery from SUD while he was in maximum security prison. Upon recovery he learned to read and write, later winning the National Book Award. He has eleven books in print, plus writing his memoir and screenplays for important films, including Blood In, Blood Out. 

The event was sponsored by Recovery Communities of New Mexico, Recovery-Friendly Taos County, Rio Grande ATP, Inc., LOR Foundation’ Taos Community Foundation, The Taos News, Taos Pueblo, Taos County, and the Town of Taos. Thirteen local behavioral health providers had information booths. Free food was provided by Common Grounds.