Governor Stitt Orders Flags to Half Staff, Lights Capitol Purple for National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day

In recognition of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, Governor Kevin Stitt issued an executive order lowering all Oklahoma and American flags on state property to half-staff and will light the Oklahoma State Capitol building in purple to show support for grieving families and increase awareness about the risks of fentanyl.

“The fentanyl crisis has devastated American families - and our hearts go out to those who continue to struggle with substance abuse,” said Governor Stitt. “My administration is committed to working with healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and community leaders to uplift Oklahoma families and fight back against the epidemic.”

Fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills, which look identical to safe prescription medications, constitute a growing threat to young people. Overdose deaths among adolescents 10-19 years old across the country more than doubled between 2019 and 2021. Seven out of every 10 fentanyl pills seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) contained a lethal dose.

“By raising awareness and working together as a community, we can prevent fentanyl-related tragedies and forge a safer, brighter future for Oklahoma,” said First Lady Sarah Stitt. “We can’t shy away from having tough conversations on addiction and drug abuse. I invite Oklahomans to join us in educating ourselves and building strong support networks so we can protect our families and loved ones from fentanyl.”

Numerous Governors and First Spouses across the nation are coordinating to observe August 21 as National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day and August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day.

Virginia First Lady Suzanne Youngkin and New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy are leading efforts connected to Mrs. Youngkin’s It Only Takes One campaign. Through outreach and joint events, the First Ladies are working to provide education and tools to help parents, teachers and young people understand the threat of counterfeit pills, recognize the signs of overdose and learn how to administer overdose-reversal medication.

It Only Takes One collaborates with parents and other local advocates to support community awareness and prevention efforts.

"After nearly losing my child to fentanyl and enduring over a decade of struggle, I've learned the vital importance of uniting our communities," said Karleen Wolanin, founder of Virginia Fentanyl and Substance Awareness. "By channeling our pain into action and raising our collective voice, we can expose the true dangers of fentanyl and ensure that no one fights this battle alone."

Learn more at itonlytakesone.virginia.gov and www.nga.org.