Pubdate: Thu, 15 Sep 2005
Source: North Island Gazette (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 North Island Gazette
Contact:  http://www.northislandgazette.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2783
Author: Bruce Winfield

WALK DECLARES WAR ON DRUGS

TSULQUATE - A small step in a very big war against drugs and alcohol was 
taken during a Enough is Enough March here, says an organizer.

"We wanted to let the community know we're tired of drug dealers, 
bootleggers and those serving alcohol to minors," said Salla Anderson, case 
manager for Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Family Services.

Close to 25 people turned out for the walk Sept. 13, which covered a couple 
of kilometers on the Tsulquate Reserve.

"Some people expressed support by honking their car horns as we drove by 
while others cheered out their windows," she said. "Others did not receive 
us too well."

Anderson alleges there are six bootleggers and eight drug dealers living in 
Tsulquate, plus people who throw house parties.

"This has a huge impact on our community," she said. "It increases the risk 
of gang rapes, abuse of every kind, and creates an unsafe environment for 
kids and elders. People are aware of the issues, they don't know how to 
express themselves."

The parade, which Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Family Services wants to do 
monthly, is the first step in a campaign against drug and alcohol abuse, 
says Anderson. The next step, she adds, will be a family services staff 
presence in the school and monthly presentations to students there, says 
Anderson.

"We are trying to raise awareness about drugs and alcohol, and to show 
people that they can do something about it," said Anderson. In the not too 
distant future, Anderson wants to bring Boys and Girls Club programs to 
Tsulquate. "We would need parents to be involved, because they are the best 
anti-drug."
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom