Third Vancouver Island Indigenous Community Declares State of Emergency Amid Escalating Opioid Crisis
The Homalco First Nation has declared a state of emergency in response to the escalating opioid crisis, marking the third Indigenous community on Vancouver Island to take such action. This declaration follows the tragic loss of four young members to toxic drugs within the past six months.
Chief Darren Blaney of the Homalco Nation emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are calling on the provincial government to immediately engage with Homalco, and all other First Nation communities who have declared a state of emergency on Vancouver Island, in a government-to-government process to come up with immediate solutions and long-term plans.”
The Homalco Nation’s declaration aligns with similar actions taken by other Indigenous groups on Vancouver Island. In October 2024, the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, representing 14 First Nations, declared a state of emergency following several drug-related deaths. Additionally, the Ahousaht First Nation declared a state of emergency earlier this month after two young individuals died within hours of each other in separate incidents.
These declarations highlight the profound impact of the opioid crisis on Indigenous communities, underscoring the need for immediate and culturally appropriate interventions.
Source : Swifteradio.com
