WASHINGTON, D.C. (09/23/2025) (readMedia)-- On Saturday, September 27, 2025, the National Trail of Truth will return to the National Mall with a powerful display: more than 3,800 hand-painted tombstones forming a National Memorial Cemetery for Substance Use Related Deaths. This striking installation, stretching from 7th Street SW to 12th Street SW, is both beautiful and devastating-a vivid reminder of the lives lost to substance use across the country.
"Families from across the political divide are coming together to say enough is enough," said Alexis Pleus, Executive Director of Truth Pharm. "Changes to policies regarding access to treatment, reducing stigma, and distributing opioid settlement funds in the most impactful ways can help reduce these preventable deaths."
The Trail of Truth is a grassroots movement uniting organizations nationwide to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and advocate for policies that save lives.
Event Details
The day begins with an Authors' Panel at the nearby Yotel featuring New York Times Best Selling Authors Judy Mandel and Bassey Ikpi and more recently published authors Pat Roos and Jason Mayo all who have written about substance use and mental health issues.
Memorial Displays
The National Memorial Cemetery will feature tombstones painted by artists, activists, and families from across the country to honor loved ones lost. Additional memorial installations include:
Attendees will be invited to walk through the cemetery, read the names, and reflect on the human toll of the epidemic.
Healing and Support
Throughout the day, organizations from around the country will provide resources and compassionate support, including the National Black Harm Reduction Association, Steps of Hope Iowa, and Moms United to End the War on Drugs. Activities include:
An Authors' Tent will also be available for book sales and discussions with writers addressing the crisis.
Speakers and Performances (4–6 p.m.)
The program will feature voices of lived experience, advocates, and national leaders, including:
Policy Goals:
Photo Credit Request: Please credit images: "National Trail of Truth to memorialize loved ones lost to substance use-related causes at the National Capitol in Washington, D.C."