Pot times July 16, 2005

Whitefish Bay March Protests Drug Dealers, Bootleggers

URL: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05/n1123/a06.html
Newshawk: Herb

Pubdate: Fri, 15 Jul 2005
Source: Kenora Daily Miner And News (CN ON)
Copyright: 2005 Kenora Daily Miner and News
Contact: minerandnews@norcomcable.ca
Website: http://www.kenoradailyminerandnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/855
Author: Mike Aiken

WHITEFISH BAY MARCH PROTESTS DRUG DEALERS, BOOTLEGGERS

About two dozen residents of Whitefish Bay First Nation marched through the community Thursday, in hopes of banishing drug dealers and booze bootleggers.

About two dozen residents of Whitefish Bay First Nation marched through the community Thursday, in hopes of banishing drug dealers and booze bootleggers.

The protest comes after another suicide on the reserve, bringing the total to at least eight within 18 months.

"We want to tell drug dealers and alcohol bootleggers to stop," said resident Cindy Hastings, who also works at the community's health centre.

"If they weren't under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they wouldn't have the courage to do it," she added.

Last November, Treaty 3 declared a state of emergency in response to the situation.  A quick response from neighbouring communities -- including experts from Kenora, the province and federal government -- meant a respite, said Chief Clarence White, who acknowledged the problem hasn't gone away.

"It's been devastating," he said.

The community of about 1,000 is located on Lake of the Woods near Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls.  Although the chief had hoped to have a summer camp emphasizing traditional teachings underway this year, he said this week that the plans were mired in the bureaucracy, with both Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Health Canada taking an interest.

White also noted none of the $700 million promised for aboriginal health had reached his community nine months after the announcement, including the $400 million earmarked for public health promotion that is meant to address youth suicides.

Youth on the reserve had been using the school's gym until 3 a.m.  for recreation, but renovations have put an end to the popular activity.

Instead, outdoor baseball and volleyball are being encouraged, with sponsorships available from the profits of the band-owned gas bar.

So far this year, the manager says he has awarded more than $2,000 to local groups in response to their applications.

Chief White continues to encourage outside agencies to attend and visit, so they can help the community deal with the ongoing crisis.