Annual Suicide Prevention Walk

To mark the annual Suicide Prevention Day this year, staff from the Beatrice Wilson Health Centre organized a walk down Kiche Maskanow. 

The event was held a day early, on Friday, September 9th, and many community members, leaders and students from the Oscar Lathlin Collegiate walked in honour of loved ones they’ve lost to suicide. 

Walkers started at the Beatrice Wilson Health Centre where spiritual advisor Alvin Merasty started the day with a prayer and drum song. 

“Suicide prevention is up to us,” Merasty said to the crowd. “You can help one another.”

Merasty said that in Cree culture, we believe there are dark forces that attach to us, and this is where suicidal thoughts come from. 

“A lot of times when people have that suicide spirit nearby, it’s telling them to do the unthinkable,” said Merasty. “We as a people, have to stand by that person and listen and not leave them.”

After his speech, everyone walked past both schools, down Waller Road to Kiche Maskanow, and over to the Arbour site. 

At the Arbour site, staff and leadership spoke and urged the students listening to reach out for help and keep busy. 

“I was dealing with these issues growing up too,” said Councillor Joel Pelly. “What helped me was getting involved and joining clubs. Going to hockey practice, baseball and all that other stuff.” 

Special thanks to everyone who attended the event. 

Remember there is help out there. Reach out to friends and family or consider contacting one of the resources below:

Resources: