Tag Archives: alcoholism

Acclaimed First Nations healer and therapist wins Reconciliation Award

July 21, 2023 Rochelle Baker

Canada’s National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After leaving residential school in the late 1950s, Klith-waa-taa would wade into a frigid river to brush himself with sacred cedar branches, cleansing away the trauma and negativity imposed upon him as a child.

The traditional practice he learned as a boy at his grandfather’s side became vital to Klith-waa-taa, or Dr. Barney Williams, during his healing and path to sobriety at age 26 in 1965.

“We would go into a river to bathe and ask for strength, but also to ask the Creator to look out for other people that needed help,” said Williams.

“We usually go for four rounds in the water. The last round is for yourself — the first three are for other people.”

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Indigenous Nations

Tla’amin First Nation invests in survival

August 5, 2022 Abby Francis

qathet Living, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After a year and a half of working with First Nations across Vancouver Island as harm reduction educator, Courtney Harrop has taken on a new position: Tla’amin Nation’s harm reduction coordinator.

“All lives have value,” says Courtney. “Harm reduction allows us to reduce harms or potential risks for all kinds of things, not just drugs and alcohol. Harm reduction also helps us to be more cautious and supportive around things like safer sex, blood-borne transmitted diseases and STI’s, as well as housing and food insecurity.”

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