FORT WILLIAM FIRST NATION — After declaring a state of emergency regarding the opioid crisis, Fort William First Nation held a community meeting earlier this week to hear residents' concerns.
"We knew that it was important to gather with our community and get some input from them on what they see as priorities for actions, and their input is very important to how we move forward," Chief Michele Solomon said.
Solomon said most of the concerns that were discussed included non-community members entering the First Nation, participating in criminal activity as well as being violent and bringing drugs.
She noted that it was a good opportunity for First Nation residents to share positive thoughts and stories, and to speak openly during the meeting.
The chief noted there will be a report available during a follow-up meeting.
"[The report] will serve to inform our plan going forward. We will gather with the community again in early September to revisit what we've heard and the plan going forward."
She expects that a preview of the report will be available for community review sometime next week.
With approximately 80 people in attendance, Solomon said she feels this is a step in the right direction.
"I know that this is really the first conversation of many that needs to happen."
Katie Nicholls is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter with Newswatch
