Clean Needles Save Lives

Richard Elovich & Gregg Bordowitz

Clean Needles Save Lives documented the illegal Act Up needle exchange program on the streets of New York. Former and recovering drug users spoke about risk reduction and safer sex to an audience including drug users. This video addressed drug users, whether they were straight, lesbian, gay, in or out of recovery. It served as an organizing tool for people who are not perceived by dominant media or the government as deserving of AIDS prevention, health, and treatment services.

The Act Up needle exchange program was organized by and is still largely funded by Act Up the AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power. Operated entirely by volunteers, the needle exchange was established in February 1990 (after the New York City Health Department Pilot Program was closed) and currently serves 700 to 800 injection drug users a week in the Morris Heights/Highbridge section of the Bronx, East Harlem, Manhattan's Lower East Side, Bushwick, and Williamsburg with cleaning works, condoms, and information about safer sex practices as well as referrals for drug treatment and health services.

In June 1991, Richard Elovich and Gregg Bordowitz were among the eight AIDS activists from Act Up and the National AIDS Brigade acquitted of needle possession charges.

For distribution information contact
Gay Men's Health Crisis
Publication and Video (212) 337-1950