Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation launches healing program

A new healing program by the Łı́ı́dlįı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation in Fort Simpson, N.W.T., is helping people reconnect with nature and traditional skills. This land-based initiative focuses on wellness and recovery, and is led by Michael Cazon, an addictions outreach worker. Participants learn traditional survival techniques and harvesting practices while spending time outdoors. Cazon emphasizes that being in nature supports physical, emotional, and spiritual health. He shares that his own journey to sobriety was greatly influenced by time spent on the land. Cazon reflects on his struggles with addiction and how it impacted his family life. He remembers waking up with thoughts focused on obtaining alcohol. Now, he starts each day with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, stating, "thank you, Creator, for giving me a new day on Earth." The program is available to men and male youth aged 15 and up. Cazon hopes it will encourage individuals to reflect on their lives and seek positive changes. He points out how each day on the land offers new experiences compared to routine life in the community. Jonathan Antoine, who participated in a similar program four years ago, shares that it transformed his life. He spent ten days living outdoors and found it grounding. He notes that many Indigenous people have become disconnected from their traditional lands due to urbanization, and programs like this aim to reconnect them with their culture. Antoine believes embracing Dene laws and teachings helped him stay sober and gain purpose. He recognizes the urgency of life and values the experience of nature. Antoine advocates for similar healing programs to be available in every northern community for anyone seeking connection or inner peace. Overall, these land-based healing efforts are seen as an important step for Indigenous communities to reclaim their culture and support individual growth and healing.