In an effort to combat the state's opioid crisis, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has announced the launch of a contest aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of fentanyl among young Arizonians. As reported on September 30th, the competition invites college and university students to create a public service announcement (PSA), and high school students to submit Instagram reels or TikTok videos, highlighting the lethal risks associated with fentanyl.
"More than five people die every day from opioid overdoses in Arizona," said Attorney General Mayes, laying bare the stark reality of the epidemic. Continuing to outline the competition’s objectives, she noted the potential for low-cost fentanyl to be mixed with other illicit substances, thus posing a significant threat to users. Her office is seeking, through this creative venture, to tap into a vein of social responsibility and peer-to-peer communication, according to Khris Mayes
Last year’s PSA contest saw a winning entry from college student Macie Logan, whose video's blend of impactful imagery and narrative struck a chord among the youth, even featuring in the Phoenix Student Film festival. This year’s edition, now open for submissions, offers participants the chance to have their message endorsed and broadcast by the Attorney General’s office.
College and university students over the age of 18 are eligible to submit their PSA by the November 30 deadline. The rules call for a succinct 26-second video that focuses on fentanyl's dangers, to allow for an additional 4-second tag by the Attorney General's Office. The victor's work will be recognized by Attorney General Mayes and will be showcased at various official platforms and conferences. High school students, similarly encouraged to enter their reels or TikToks, have the chance to create content using viral sounds and trends to echo this critical message to their peers.
Amidst these efforts, the Arizona Attorney General's Office stresses the significance of youth involvement in this cause. Participation details and submission guidelines for both aspects of the competition can be found on the official website (https://www.azag.gov/student-video-contest-fentanyl-awareness), signaling a clear path for students to engage in a meaningful dialogue about a crisis that is gripping their community and nation.
