On November 24, 2024, the FNQLHSSC had the honour of walking alongside the community of Ekuanitshit as part of National Addictions Awareness Week. This event aimed to strengthen support and foster collective awareness regarding the challenges related to addictions.
A unifying moment: community lunch and inspiring speeches
Before the start of the march, a community lunch was offered, which provided a friendly occasion to come together and prepare both physically and emotionally. It was also a good opportunity to hear messages and speeches that inspired hope.
The Community Health Coordinator at the Centre de santé Mashtishanitshuap and organizer of the march, Tania Courtois, offered a moving speech recalling the importance of this inclusive initiative:
“Whether you are experiencing problems with addiction, drugs, alcohol or another difficulty, this march is for everyone. We invite everyone, whether or not they are suffering, to take this first step towards healing. Each member of this community is precious. Walk for your children, your brothers, your sisters, your loved ones. Every small step counts; it is a first step towards healing.”
Chief Jean-Charles Piétacho highlighted the origins of this mobilization and expressed his wishes for the future:
“Our elders were the ones who asked for concrete actions to fight addictions and drugs. This message resonated within all Innu communities. Today, we are walking together to show our solidarity. We want to convey this message to those who are suffering: you are not alone, we are here. My wish for the future of Ekuanitshit is to establish Innu police security, reduce drug use and offer our children a future free from these scourges.”
A symbolic march of hope
Early in the afternoon, the population got moving while bringing together young and old in a gesture of unity and solidarity: a meaningful march demonstrating the community’s open-armed support for those who wish to receive help. The participants, dressed in green, the colour of hope, walked to the rhythm of drums, which are powerful symbols of connection and support. Shirts bearing the words Tshishpeuatetau tshitinniunnu (let’s protect our lives) reinforced this message of mutual aid and resilience. This powerful key phrase emphasizes that collective wellness is important within First Nations communities. This march was not only a moment of awareness, but also a concrete demonstration of the collective power to build a healthier future.
At the finish line, Tania Courtois shared her feelings with pride and emotion:
“This walk was a powerful moment for all of us. Seeing all the community members united, walking hand in hand, generated a wave of emotion. For those who are suffering, we want you to know that you are not alone. We hope you felt the power of the drums and the warmth of the community. Never hesitate to ask for help; we are here for you.”
She also expressed her gratitude to the Innu nation and all the participating communities, highlighting their essential role in the success of this event across the territory.
Together for a better future
This march in Ekuanitshit is much more than just an event: it marks a turning point in collective awareness, highlighting the power of mutual aid and the importance of building resilient communities. Together, let’s take this first step towards healing.