The Fight Against Fentanyl Symposium

In Regina, Sasketchewan’s North Central neighborhood, the fentanyl crisis has hit Indigenous communities particularly hard.

The impact of the opioid has been devastating, leading to a significant increase in overdose deaths, especially among Indigenous youth.

To address this urgent issue, the Women of the Dawn Counselling Centre hosted The Fight Against Fentanyl Symposium in October 2024, creating a space for education, healing, and community dialogue. The symposium included opening remarks from residential school Survivors and presentations by representatives from the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatchewan Assured Income Disability program, and the Regina Police Service’s Street Gang Unit. In addition, Elders and Knowledge Keepers led small group discussions with attending youth. Using the Seven Grandfather Teachings, they provided guidance and wisdom rooted in Indigenous cultural values to help attendees understand how these values could guide them towards healthy, drug-free lives.

A grant from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) made this event possible, covering the costs of venue rental, facilitators, mental health supports, honorariums for Elders and Knowledge Keepers, food, and everything needed for a pipe ceremony to close out the event. 

The Fight Against Fentanyl Symposium built on the power of community-led education and relationship-building in addressing the opioid crisis. By bringing together youth, drug prevention agencies and cultural leaders, the Women of the Dawn Counselling Centre was able to help open the door to a brighter, healthier future for Indigenous youth in Regina.

Archdiocese of Regina