SCO ACKNOWLEDGES WORLD AIDS DAY
December 1st is World AIDS Day.
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) joins others around the globe in remembering those we have lost as a result of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
To find out more about HIV, visit: www.catie.ca/essentials/hiv-basics
In Manitoba, recent data shows that the number of people living with HIV in the province grew from 111 to 169, or 52 per cent, from 2018 to 2021. Within that same time period, the number of people who self-identified as Indigenous and were living with HIV increased from 51 per cent to 73 per cent.
The increasing number of HIV infections within our communities is the result of colonization and systemic racism.
SCO would like to remind the citizens of our Nations, that to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, it is a good idea to speak with health care providers about the different prevention methods and testing available.
Remember, the only way to know your HIV status is to get tested. To see existing testing options in Manitoba, please visit serc.mb.ca/sexual-health-info/safer-sex-stbbis/stbbi-testing-in-manitoba/
We also want to remind First Nations citizens that SCO offers comprehensive harm reduction services through our Harm Reduction Program and Land-Based Healing Fund. You can find out more at: scoinc.mb.ca/harmreduction/
This World AIDS Day, and every day, we call on all levels of government to embrace First Nation harm reduction models, and to advocate for accessible testing, treatment, and education about HIV and AIDS.
Together, we can end the stigma and discrimination that is faced by those living with HIV.
#SCOINCMB #SCOHealth #WorldAIDSDay #harmreduction #Manitoba
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CONGRATULATIONS TO LITTLE GRAND RAPIDS CHIEF AND COUNCIL
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) extends congratulations to Clinton Keeper (Mishkoosh) on being elected as Chief of Little Grand Rapids First Nation.
SCO also extends our congratulations to Councillors Roy Dunsford, Clinton Keeper (Mishkoosh), Diane Keeper, Cher Kejick, Wendy Leveque, and Blair Owen.
We wish you much success in your roles as leadership for your Nation and look forward to advocating with you in the coming months and years ahead.
#SCOINCMB #LGR #LittleGrandRapids #leadership #FirstNation #Manitoba
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SCO SHARES CONDOLENCES
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is saddened to learn of the passing of Rylie Anderson, the beloved daughter of Ryan and Sherry Anderson.
Rylie’s father Ryan is a Councillor from the Dauphin River First Nation.
On behalf of SCO, Grand Chief Jerry Daniels is expressing condolences for Ryan, Sherry, for Rylie’s siblings, and for everyone who knew and loved Rylie.
The passing of one’s child bring indescribable grief. Please join us in offering prayers for the family and Nation of Rylie as they grapple with this devastating loss.
SCO stands with the Dauphin River First Nation as you mourn the loss of one of your young citizens. May her memory bring you comfort.
#SCOINCMB #DauphinRIver #condolences
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YOU ARE NOT ALONE
On the seventh day of activism against gender-based violence, we want to remind anyone experiencing violence: you are not alone.
Although you may feel isolated, there are people and organizations you can turn to for support. You may call these numbers at any time to talk with someone about your situation.
– Agape House in Steinbach: 1-877-977-0007
– Domestic Abuse Crisis Line: 1-877-977-0007
– First Nation Healing Center in Fisher River: 204-645-2751
– Genesis House in Winkler: 204-325-9800
– Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at hopeforwellness.ca
– Ikwe Widdjiitiwin Crisis Line: 1-800-362-3344
– Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Office: 1-800-442-0488
– Parkland Crisis Centre & Women’s Shelter in Dauphin: 1-877-977-0007
– Southern Chiefs’ Organization Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Liaison: 1-866-876-9701
– Survivor’s Hope Crisis Centre in Pinawa: 204-753-5353
– Velma’s House in Winnipeg: 204-560-3007
– Women’s Resource Centre in Brandon: 204-726-8632
Reach out for support if you need it.
Pictured here: Kenneth Courchene of the Environment Program at the Southern Chiefs’ Organization
#SCOINCMB #SCOHealth #FirstNations #16daysofactivism #Manitoba
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CELEBRATING AND HONOURING OUR TWO SPIRIT AND TRANSGENDER RELATIVES
Honouring our two spirit and transgender relatives was the focus of a gathering that took place at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights earlier this month for the Transgender Day of Remembrance. Organizers lit a sacred fire so those in attendance could offer tobacco to connect with loved ones in the spirit world.
Charlotte Nolan held a pipe ceremony, emphasizing the importance of creating sacred spaces. She talked about how more space has been created for our gender-diverse relatives through a second-annual sundance.
Kookum Gayle Pruden spoke about those who have gone into the spirit world and the challenges faced by the two spirit community. Her journey, growing up in Little Saskatchewan First Nation as a two spirit child, highlighted the beauty of acceptance within family. As an advocate and Anishinaabemowin speaker, Kookum Gayle actively supports and mentors transgender and two spirit people.
During the event, two spirit visionary Dr. Albert McLeod shared invaluable teachings about traditional values.
This event was a platform for voices to be heard, allowing individuals to share their experiences and honour the memories of loved ones who have now gone to the spirit world. It was a beautifully organized event; it highlighted the richness of our culture and the importance of embracing it.
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization extends gratitude to Delma McLean and Sharon Pruden from our Child and Family Services Program for showing your support for our 16 Days of Activism campaign by attending the event and sharing your story.
Let’s continue standing together, fostering inclusion, and honouring our two spirit and gender-diverse relatives.
If you would like to learn more about actions you can take to end gender-based violence, please visit our website: scoinc.mb.ca/16-actions/
#SCOINCMB #SCOHealth #16DaysofActivism
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