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Every journey begins with a step

The dedication of community members to come out in the rain and wind for last Friday’s March against Violence in Saddle Lake was inspiring to see.

The dedication of community members to come out in the rain and wind for last Friday’s March against Violence in Saddle Lake was inspiring to see. Through the drizzle and mud, elders stood and faced four directions, and prayed for their community, leading the way through the walk, followed by various generations of Saddle Lake band members, all united and speaking against one voice against drugs, violence and addictions in their community.

Often in people’s minds, the good news about those working to improve the lives of their fellow First Nations people is overshadowed by RCMP reports of missing people, gun violence, thefts, etc. It’s important for the wider Canadian population to see and know – and honour through events and committees like Reconciliation St. Paul – that there are those who are trying to heal the scars of past wounds and trauma, partly through reintroducing ceremony and customs and connecting young people with their roots, language and culture.

Some may question what the point of a walk is on its own, or its ability to effect change. But if a person approaches a challenge or difficulty with cynicism and doubt, finding solutions is likely a lost cause. Maintaining hope and a will and thirst for change, followed through with action, are the only ways to turn the tide against systemic problems like violence, drugs and addiction.

The fact that young people were the ones organizing the walk is to be commended, as young people are the future of a community. The future lies in their hands, to demand and effect the changes they want to see for the benefit of all in their community.




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