RICHMOND, VA - Today, on National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin is proud to announce a powerful partnership with First Lady Tammy Murphy of New Jersey in a united effort to address the devastating fentanyl crisis gripping communities across the nation. With the opioid epidemic continuing to claim lives at an alarming rate, this initiative brings together the majority of the Nation’s First Spouses to amplify awareness and education on the dangers of synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

“On average, five Virginians die every day as a result of fentanyl overdose – an unspeakable tragedy that is entirely preventable,” said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. “Tiny amounts of fentanyl can be lethal, and it only takes one encounter for a life to be lost. That’s why we are committed to educating every American about the risks and the importance of having life-saving conversations.”

The response to this initiative has been both inspiring and impactful. First Spouses across the country, alongside Virginia’s influencers, athletes, colleges, and sports teams, have united in meaningful actions to honor lives lost and raise awareness. From flying flags at half-staff for lives lost and adorning executive mansions with purple ribbons (the color associated with recovery), to mobilizing public figures and lighting buildings in purple, these efforts demonstrate a strong, nationwide commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis.

This initiative, spearheaded by First Lady Youngkin and First Lady Murphy, represents a collective call to action. The majority of First Spouses have joined this campaign, lending their voices and leadership to a national effort that aims to save lives through awareness and education.

“The Fentanyl epidemic has tragically affected families across America,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “I am proud to join with First Lady Youngkin and first spouses from every corner of our country to raise awareness and amplify tools to fight this crisis. We have had enough of watching mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, grandparents, friends and extended family members experience the loss of their loved ones to preventable drug overdoses.”

As part of this initiative, the First Spouses are encouraging everyone to visit itonlytakesone.virginia.gov to learn more about the dangers of fentanyl and to commit to having conversations with loved ones that could save lives.

“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.”