Our most precious resource

Gas sniffing.

A huge problem. No doubt about it right?

But I have to ask, what’s being done? I mean, what is really, really being done to stop First Nation kids from continuing this gruesome habit that eats away at the brain? Do we know the long-term affects of gas sniffing?

It can’t be good, to say the least.

Recently, I happened across an article on CBC online. The Pauingassi First Nation in northeastern Manitoba has taken measures to curb gas sniffing among youth in the community. And by all accounts, they have succeeded.

How did they do it? Well, let’s say they went above and beyond what was needed. “An enormous effort,” says the CBC article.

They invested in their youth by sending them to treatment and by providing cultural programs in the community. They invested, not only money, but also time and effort.

Inspiring.

If only other First Nations can do the same. Not that I’m saying other communities don’t care for their youth.

But what made this community different is band leadership stepped up to the plate to provide resources for the community to heal itself. The need for action came from WITHIN the community.

Too often, First Nation workers become bogged down in community politics. And with so many issues at hand to deal with on a daily basis, sometimes we all lose sight of our most precious resource.

Our youth.

So I ask again: What are we really doing to protect our most precious resource?