Local Indigenous leaders have come together to take action against the issues of mental health, addiction, and human trafficking that have affected their communities.
A gathering was held at the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation on Thursday to discuss the severity of the problems and steps being taken to address them.
Chippewas of the Thames Chief Jacqueline French was joined by Munsee-Delaware Chief Roger Thomas and Oneida Chief Todd Cornelius in signing a “tri-council” declaration.
Oneida Nation of the Thames Chief Todd Cornelius, Munsee-Delaware Nation Chief Roger Thomas, and Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Chief Jacqueline French prepare to sign a declaration. Photo by Rebecca Chouinard.
The statement acknowledged the mental health and addiction crisis within Indigenous communities, which have gone hand-in-hand with an increase in human trafficking and overdoses.
“It’s real, it’s happening, and it’s not only happening in Chippewas, but we recognize it’s happening in all three communities,” French said. “We felt it was time for us to come together, to take that stand together, to show our communities that we are unified in addressing these big issues that we can no longer ignore.”
The three Chiefs took part in a ceremony led by Myeengun Henry, former Chief of the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. Tobacco was used throughout the ritual. Leaders put good thoughts and prayers into the substance and Henry smoked it, sending the positive energy up to the creator.
French added that the pipe Henry used during Thursday’s ceremony was a “huge significance and honour,” as the sacred object only comes out for very special occasions.
Myeengun Henry, former chief of the Chippewas First Nations, smokes tobacco while leading a symbolic ceremony. Photo by Rebecca Chouinard.
“There’s three nations that all live together. We all have our different languages, creation stories, culture, and all these different things, but we blend together quite often,” said Henry. “We know that when there’s a crisis in one nation we all come together and it becomes a part of who we are – to help each other.”
Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo was there to announce that Ontario has invested almost $33-million since 2022 in mental health and addiction initiatives for Indigenous people. More than $25-million has been delivered directly to Indigenous organizations and communities, helping them develop their own programs, upgrade existing infrastructure and equipment, and purchase health and safety supplies.
Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo speaks at Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. Photo by Rebecca Chouinard.
“We can’t just do a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone. One of the things we know as First Nations communities, because of the culture, the heritage, and the language, barriers exist to getting care,” Tibollo said.
The associate minister highlighted the importance of improving services and supports in mental health treatment, with a particular emphasis on trauma-informed care.
“Care has to be right for the individuals,” said Tibollo. “For Indigenous people in Ontario, this means mental health care that’s safe, that’s respectful, and that reflects their rich cultural history and traditions – the kind of high quality care that all people in Ontario expect and deserve.”
For Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, the plan is to revamp the Nimkee Nupigawagan Healing Centre, which currently caters to youths. New additions will help all members of the First Nation have easier access around the clock to health and wellness services.
French says there is a “big vision” for the facility. It will offer detox, medical treatment, aftercare, and outpatient services for those struggling with their mental health or an addiction. More staff will also be brought on to meet the need of the population.
By the end of the project, French says housing should be an added component of the First Nation’s wellness strategy.
