The recent loss of a young community member to a drug overdose has left John O’Nabigon, Chief of Long Lake #58 First Nation, devastated and frustrated. This marks the third drug-related death of a young person in the community this year, highlighting the ongoing drug crisis affecting them.
In response to what he described as a tragic loss, O’Nabigon expressed his disappointment with what he perceived as a lack of action from government authorities. Consequently, he has taken a proactive step by engaging an Indigenous-run security company to operate checkpoints within the community.
This decision follows the declaration of a state of emergency by Long Lake #58 earlier this year due to concerns about drug traffickers supplying vulnerable members in the community. The neighboring Ginoogaming First Nation also declared a joint state of emergency over similar issues, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the two communities.
Chief Sheri Taylor of Ginoogaming First Nation highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing that the communities cannot afford to continue losing young lives at a rapid pace. Despite their emergency declarations, the communities feel that governmental and policing partners have not adequately addressed their concerns.
Both Long Lake #58 and Ginoogaming are part of the Thunder Bay district, which has seen a disproportionately high rate of opioid-related deaths compared to the provincial average. The community leaders have persistently called for stronger enforcement, increased resources, and a coordinated response to tackle the influx of dangerous drugs.
The Anishinabek Police Service (APS) has been actively intercepting drugs trafficked from the Greater Toronto Area, collaborating with other agencies to combat the issue. The RCMP has also pledged its commitment to working with Indigenous leadership and policing partners to address organized crime and enhance community safety.
In response to the escalating crisis, Long Lake #58 and Ginoogaming have taken measures to protect their communities, including hiring security groups to prevent illegal drug activities. While these initiatives have shown positive results, they have come at a cost to the First Nations.
Both communities are advocating for increased access to professional services for addiction treatment within their regions, aiming to provide comprehensive care locally. The leaders are calling for accountability from drug dealers and emphasizing the importance of community support during these challenging times.