The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) has declared a state of local emergency in response to recent deaths in communities last week. This order was issued for all six Tŝilhqot’in communities and provides the Nation with the opportunity to access additional government support.
The toxic drug supply combined with the harms of historical and present-day colonialism are contributing to higher rates of death from toxic drugs amongst Indigenous peoples compared to other populations in the province. Treatment facilities lack the capacity to take on new patients. TNG calls on all ministries and agencies to work together to end this loss of lives.
“Drugs are a major problem in our communities. As leaders we feel that our hands are tied. We need to act to not lose anymore lives. The RCMP know who the dealers are and need to deal with this. A State of Emergency is an opportunity to address this crisis.”
—Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse, O.B.C, LL.D. (hon.), Tribal Chair, Tŝilhqot’in National Government
“Our people are grieving over the recent losses in our communities. We need time and tradition to heal while we search for Tsilhqot’in-led solutions. We call on the local health authorities to work with our communities and expand facilities to support our members who want treatment. Our thoughts and prayers are with those families grieving right now.”
— Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Otis Guichon, Vice-chair, Tŝilhqot’in National Government
-30-
Contact:
Nikki Berreth
Communications Manager
nberreth@tsilhqotin.ca
Cell 250 305 8669
See the full media release and Tribal Council Resolution here.
