John O’Nabigon expressed deep sorrow and frustration following the recent loss of another young community member due to a drug overdose. The chief of Long Lake #58 First Nation, located in northwestern Ontario, has taken action in response to the third drug-related death of a young person this year.
In a statement to the community, O’Nabigon described the loss as tragic and a painful reminder of the ongoing drug crisis affecting their community. Feeling dissatisfied with what he perceives as government inaction, O’Nabigon has enlisted an Indigenous-run security company to establish checkpoints within the community.
Long Lake #58 had previously declared a state of emergency earlier this year due to drug traffickers supplying vulnerable members within the community. This move was followed by a joint state of emergency declaration with neighboring Ginoogaming First Nation. Ginoogaming’s Chief Sheri Taylor emphasized the urgency of addressing the loss of young community members and highlighted the need for immediate action.
Both communities are located within the Thunder Bay district, which has a significantly high opioid-related death rate compared to the provincial average. Despite repeated emergency declarations, the communities feel that governmental and policing partners have not adequately addressed their concerns.
The Anishinabek Police Service (APS) has reported an increase in drug trafficking activities coming from the Greater Toronto Area into First Nations communities. The APS has been actively intercepting drugs and supporting enforcement efforts in collaboration with the communities.
While Long Lake #58 and Ginoogaming have received some funding for mental wellness programs and have taken steps to enhance community safety, they continue to advocate for a more coordinated and sustainable response to the drug crisis. Both communities are focusing on increasing surveillance and community policing efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Ginoogaming has implemented a community protection order bylaw and hired a security group to prevent illegal drug-related activities. O’Nabigon mentioned that Long Lake #58 has also engaged the same security group to set up community checkpoints. The initiative has garnered positive feedback in Ginoogaming, with community members noticing a change in the security situation.
The ongoing efforts in both communities aim to address the root causes of drug-related issues and provide necessary support and services locally. Community leaders emphasize the importance of holding drug dealers accountable and fostering a sense of unity and support among members during challenging times.
