Canada Day Parade Brings AUD Awareness to the Streets of Comox
On July 1st, as thousands gathered in Comox to celebrate the Canada Day parade, another gathering was unfolding under the shade of a big-top tent near the food truck zone. Amid the music, laughter, and festivities, the Indigenous Women’s Sharing Society – in partnership with CAUDS and representing the Comox Valley Substance Use Strategy Collaborative – offered something both refreshing and thought-provoking: ice-cold mocktails, free resources, and open conversation about alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Over 250 people stopped by the booth, with countless others pausing to scan the materials or listen in as volunteers engaged in dialogue. Many shared that this was their first time encountering information about AUD in such an approachable setting. “We had conversations with folks of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of knowledge,” said organizer Patti Alvarado. “For many, the statistic that alcohol is the leading cause of substance-related death in the Comox Valley was shocking – they had no idea.”
The mocktail tasting drew in families, young people, and curious onlookers who stayed for more than just a sip. Some returned later to ask questions, take brochures, or reflect on their own relationships with alcohol. “I liked that kids and parents could participate in it together,” said one volunteer. “One kid even liked the mock Caesar the best!”
Peer support workers and volunteers helped create a welcoming space to talk about recovery, harm reduction, and healing – offering not just drinks, but new ways of thinking. “This event gave me an abundance of information I had yet to know existed – locally and beyond,” shared one peer.
Mocktails like the Canadian Caesar and alcohol-free beers offered an easy way to model choice and connection – especially on a day traditionally associated with heavy drinking. “I think Canada Day and those sorts of occasions are big "party" days” said one attendee. “It's good to both counter that pressure, and support people already in recovery who may be feeling more urge to relapse than normal with everyone partying all around them.”
For some, the experience carried deeper cultural meaning. “Having an event focused on education about alcohol use harm reduction is valuable because culturally Indigenous people have been oppressed with alcohol...” said one participant. “It’s important to heal and move forward celebrating all the good we are allowed to celebrate again with our culture.”
The response at the booth spoke volumes – not just about the appeal of the drinks, but about the thirst for open, judgment-free conversations around alcohol use. As Patti put it, “The most common comment we heard was: ‘I love this idea – thank you for what you’re doing.’”