“I feel devastated and outraged,” expressed John O’Nabigon following the recent loss of a young community member to a drug overdose. The chief of Long Lake #58 First Nation, situated approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Thunder Bay in northwestern Ontario, is taking steps in response to the third drug-related death of a young person this year.
In a statement to his community, O’Nabigon described the loss as tragic and a painful reminder of the ongoing drug crisis affecting their community. Frustrated with what he perceives as inaction from various government levels, O’Nabigon announced the hiring of an Indigenous-run security company to manage checkpoints within the community.
This decision comes after Long Lake #58 declared a state of emergency in January due to concerns about drug traffickers supplying vulnerable members in the community. The community later declared a joint state of emergency with neighboring Ginoogaming First Nation over the same issue, given their close familial ties.
Chief Sheri Taylor of Ginoogaming First Nation highlighted the need to address the frequent losses of young community members. She stated that despite multiple emergency declarations, government and policing partners have not adequately addressed the communities’ concerns.
Long Lake #58, with a population of just over 560, falls under the jurisdiction of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), while Ginoogaming, with more than 200 residents, is overseen by the Anishinabek Police Service (APS). Both communities are part of the Thunder Bay district, which has a significantly higher opioid-related death rate than the provincial average.
The escalating drug trafficking issue, with drugs being brought north from the Greater Toronto Area, has prompted increased action from the APS. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, and community leaders continue to advocate for a coordinated response from government and policing agencies.
In response to these challenges, Ginoogaming has implemented a community protection order bylaw and enlisted the help of a security group, Anishinaabe Ambassadors Inc., to combat illegal drug-related activities. O’Nabigon confirmed that Long Lake #58 has also engaged the same security group to set up community checkpoints.
Both communities are hopeful that these security measures will make a positive impact and that the community members will stand together to combat the drug crisis. O’Nabigon emphasized the need for enhanced professional services within the community to address addiction and prevent individuals from seeking care elsewhere.