Recent Events in our Community

For many, the last week has been difficult as our community has experienced traumatic events and loss, affecting many families and friends.
 
I wanted to take this opportunity to express my sincerest of sympathies for those of you who are directly affected. I understand that these can be trying times, times that require intervention and support; and it is during these times we most often turn to our family, friends, and service providers in our community.
 
As leadership, I believe we have a responsibility to do our best to provide a safe and healthy community for our people; and set the example through our own actions. We cannot tolerate, and we cannot turn a blind eye to the violence occurring in our community. We must do what we can to address the issues, including demonstrating to our women and girls that they are valued and appreciated. They deserve our best. Our men and boys have a responsibility to act in a way that keeps our community and our people safe. For our community to continue moving towards healing, we all have a responsibility and we all must do our part.
 
We have a responsibility to our next generations. Openly, I wonder and hope for the time that all our kids grow up knowing what it means to be safe and supported.
 
I have had discussions with many about the importance of creating more avenues for teaching our values and respect for each other, at all levels and ages; and that we need to create more safe spaces within our community and places of healing and wellness. We need opportunities to come together in a good way. And we need to start now.
 
In closing, I want to thank the family members, friends, and service providers that are doing their best to support and help the many families affected. Your tireless commitment does not go unnoticed and you are appreciated for all you do and take on. On this family day I also want to remind you to hold your family a little closer, because we can all use a bit more love and support.
Darcy Gray
Chief of Listuguj