Event Description:  In a clinical setting and beyond, people who use drugs (PWUD) frequently are assumed to be difficult, non-compliant and untrustworthy—which affects both how they are treated and the outcome of that treatment. Harm Reduction—which is both a set of practical strategies to reduce the harm of drug use and a social justice movement for the rights and dignity of PWUD—invites us to break down assumptions about substance use and seek a less punitive, more public health-oriented approach. Using the principles of bioethics and drawing on frameworks like the social model of disability, this talk will highlight ways to restore agency and dignity to PWUD and offer tools and best practices for reducing harm not only to PWUD but also to families, communities and caring professionals.