Fox Lake activities well received in first year

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The Fox Lake Cree Indian Band in northern Manitoba emphasized the effects of substance abuse on personal health in its first year of participation in National Addictions Awareness Week.

"Three days of activities were well attended by the majority of our 400 people," says Sophie Beardy, the community's Native drug and alcohol awareness worker. "We saw videos on such topics as addiction and recovery, fetal alcohol syndrome and drinking and driving."

The little community, located 33 miles from Gillam in the Thompson, Manitoba area, had an impressive agenda for its busy three day. Guest speakers addressed the crowd on social issues, alcoholism in the family and child apprehension. "People really listened to what the speakers were saying," says Beardy. "They heard what alcohol and drugs can do to a person's health as well as all the cocktail problems (they can lead to)." Videos were also shown.

Beardy had a good committee helping her plan the activities. "I had just started as the NNDAP (National Native Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program) worker myself in June, so it was good to have the volunteers help," she explains. Community health representatives, elders, representatives from the Native Women's Association and a minister from the Anglican Church all attended planning meetings. "I had 16 volunteers helping."

People were bused in from nearby Gilliam for the presentations as well. "The elders participated more than I had expected.," says Beardy. "They are very concerned about these issues." Most activities were conducted in both English and Cree.

A pleasant addition to the activities was the attendance of staff from Poundmaker's Lodge I St. Albert. Lynda Nackoway was enjoying a well-earned vacation at Fox Lake and soon found herself on the agenda. Neckoway spoke on dependency and found the young people especially interested with many attending her workshop.

"Teenagers and young adults realize alcohol causes problems at home and physically, spiritually, emotionally and mentally," she says. Neckoway, who is originally from Fox Lake, had returned home for an extended visit "to spend time with family and gain the strength I always seem to feel after a stay at home."

Neckoway regrets she can't attend the local celebrations again this year. "It is great to see the local celebrations again this year. "It is great to see the elders getting involved, talking to the young people," she says.

Plans are already underway in the community for a bigger and better week this year.