09/26/2025
You will find me here this weekend, camera in hand, as I have the honor of documenting the event through my lens. All photos and videos will be uploaded to Kat’s Eye Photography. Follow me to stay updated!
“The National Trail of Truth memorializes all lives lost to substance use related causes through a community created arts installation of a National Memorial Cemetery.
The Trail of Truth National is the largest national community memorial for all substance use related deaths. Over 3600 loved ones will be memorializes on the National Mall in Washington DC on September 27th, 2025.
The event calls for unity, peace and support to grieve and thrive in life for all impacted by substance use or addiction. We want our loved remembered and recognized for who they were.
The event includes (10am) an authors panel, (11am-7pm) healing and artful activities, grief share circles, story collection, organizations tabling, and (4-6pm) speakers and performers.
Come heal and build community with us. Have your loved one seen and your voice heard.”
Full schedule below!
Friday, September 26th
6:00–7:00 PM – Meet & Greet Reception at the Memorial Cemetery site (7th Street SW). Join us for light fare and a chance to connect with fellow Trail of Truth partners and community members. Register to attend.
7:00–8:00 PM – Candlelit Vigil and Memory Share at the Memorial Cemetery site, where we will honor loved ones and share stories in remembrance.
9:00–10:00 PM – “Power” Photoshoot on the National Mall at the gravel pass aligning with 9th Street SW. Please wear something red that makes you feel strong and powerful for portraits capturing our collective resilience.
Saturday, September 27th
10:00 AM – Author’s Panel in memory of David Poses at the host hotel, Yotel Washington DC (415 New Jersey Ave NW), Hub 1. Hear from authors Bassey Ikpi, Gracie Parker, Pat Roos, Judy Mandel, and Jason Mayo as they discuss substance use, mental health, and healing. Space is limited, so please register to attend here: https://pci.jotform.com/form/252465764633161
11:00 AM–4:00 PM – Memorial Cemetery & Healing Spaces open on the National Mall between 3rd Street SW and 7th Street SW. In addition to the cemetery, you’ll find powerful memorial displays including the Enough is Enough Crosses, Today I Matter Posters, and the Eternal Angel Poster Project. Healing spaces will also be available, offering Narcan training, creative activities, grief support, and recovery groups.
4:00–6:00 PM – Speakers & Performers take the stage on the National Mall. Speakers include Tracie Gardner, Kimberly Douglas, Erica Poellott, and Angela Kennecke. Performers include Allie Torto and Lonnie Brown. ASL interpretation will be provided by Eliza Moore.
6:00–7:00 PM – Dancing with the Angels at the Memorial Cemetery site
