UP WITH HOPE, DOWN WITH DOPE

'Up with hope' spirit filled the air at the St. John's Anglican
Church in Old Massett Monday evening. Community members came out in
full force to support the notion of Up With Hope - Down With Dope."
Citizens and friends of the Haida met to show support to the family
who recently lost a loved one to suicide. The concern raised by all
present is that the incident had some connection to the drug dealers
in the area. The message received is that the known dealers are
harassing the family members who are trying to find out what happened
to their loved one to cause him to take his own life.

"Down With Dope" is what the community is stating. The citizens
agreed unanimously that they do not want this in Old Massett or on
the Island. They indicated it is not welcome on the Island and that
something has to continue to be done to stop the dealers. One of the
messages that came from this gathering Monday evening is that we live
here and this is our home, and we cannot depend just on the RCMP to
assist us with dealing with this problem. We as citizens have more of
a vested interest in cleaning up our community and getting message to
dealers they are not welcome. After some dialogue about the concerns
and the need to continue to do the work the group rallied together,
organized with signs and vehicles and drove through the streets of Old Massett.

Fifteen vehicles packed with passengers and signs were led through
the streets of Old Massett by four people walking waving signs
against the illegal use and selling of drugs, and signs indicating
the support will be there for those who speak up. Present in the
group were the local minister and members of her congregation, a
Hereditary Chief, Leadership from CHN- Old Massett Representatives,
Elders, Youth and Friends.

The rally saw the group slow down at three main dealers homes in Old
Massett. The neighbours on the streets joined in and witnessed the
process. The group was excited that the time of evening realized many
at home to witness the event and carry the message that there is hope
for the community with everyone working together to stop the dealers.
There is also hope for the dealers if they are prepared to come
forward and ask for help.

The spirits were high throughout the evening and the rally ended with
many positive comments from all who participated. The spirit of the
youth and adults working together made the event even more positive.
Children as young as first grade came by to read the signs and ask
questions about the rally. The education of our young ones offered a
sign that the evening has not gone without positive results.

Having the youth interest in what is happening will allow this
campaign to continue. It takes a whole community to raise a child,
and by working together we are paving the way for a healthier
community, healthier children, healthier adults.

The group has asked that these walks be kept alive, so in the near
future citizens will rally again and not stop until we have created
more hope and eradicated dope.