One of the many participants in Wednesday night’s meeting. Photo courtesy of Candice Evans, Facebook.
According to organizers, a meeting calling for action on northern suicides exceeded their expectations.
Organizer Allison Woods-Janvier says she didn’t know what to expect from Wednesday night’s meeting in Buffalo Narrows.
Woods-Janvier, along with others, organized the meeting to bring together concerned community members to dialogue with leaders over solutions for the suicide crisis in the north. She says the nearly 200 people who showed up was humbling and inspiring.
“I felt so nervous and alone before the meeting began,” said Woods-Janvier. “But look at all the people that showed up, and I am sure they care as well. I hope everyone will come away with a sense that something will be done and we can’t stop here because it has to continue.”
In the fall of last year, six girls took their own lives in northern Saskatchewan. According to community members, attempts are still occurring.
Woods-Janvier says what one thing that gave her hope was the youth engagement at Wednesday’s meeting.
“It’s about them, it’s about their lives,” she said. “We need them in our lives in order for us to function as adults.”
Woods-Janvier admits she doesn’t know what the next step is, but many who attended last night’s meeting are asking for similar meetings in the future.