Two years have passed since the tragic stabbings that occurred on James Smith Cree Nation (JSCN) and the nearby community of Weldon, where Myles Sanderson took the lives of 11 people and injured 17 others. The impact of this tragedy still lingers in the minds of many in the community and across the province. The Band chief and justice director of JSCN both expressed the lasting effects of the incident, with many community members feeling the need to lock their doors at night for safety. In response to this tragedy, the community is in the early stages of developing a self-administered police service, which is considered essential for the safety of its members.
The development of a self-administered police service is a significant step in ensuring the safety of the community members of JSCN. The Justice director, Eddie Head, emphasized the importance of this initiative and the impact it will have on the lives of the community members. Plans are in place to have everything ready within the next three years, with collaboration between the Saskatchewan Public Safety Minister, Paul Merriman, the RCMP, the justice ministry, and First Nations partners. The decision to pursue self-policing comes after inquiries and recommendations on how to prevent similar incidents in the future, with the goal of protecting the lives of community members.
The focus on community healing and support is evident through various initiatives being undertaken in the aftermath of the tragic incident. The implementation of land-based programs, in addition to the development of a wellness center, aims to provide mental health support, grief counseling, and treatment for all community members. Community leaders stress the importance of coming together culturally, spiritually, and physically to promote healing and well-being among the members. It is acknowledged that healing is a lifelong process, and the wellness center is seen as a crucial resource for generations to come, providing opportunities for growth and flourishing for the entire community.
The community leaders of JSCN are committed to creating a safe and vibrant community where individuals can thrive. Through the implementation of various programs and initiatives, they aim to ensure that the lives of community members are protected, and that healing and recovery are central to the community’s development. The upcoming powwow will provide an opportunity for reflection on the past two years and a chance to come together as a community to support one another. Ultimately, the goal is to foster a sense of unity, resilience, and healing within the community as they continue to move forward from the tragedy that occurred two years ago.
