The fourth annual drug awareness walk for fentanyl and crystal meth took place in North Central Regina on Friday. The event attracted more than 100 people, who walked from Grassick Playground Park over to Albert Street and around the neighbourhood. The walk was organized by Regina Treaty Status Indian Services (RTSIS). The group says the walk is meant to be supportive for those living in the community, and those currently using fentanyl and meth. The hope is that hearing speakers who talk of recovery will encourage those using drugs to be willing to accept help and pursue treatment options. “I think the reality is that we know there is a staggering number of Indigenous people who are facing substance misuse and abuse,” Natasha Kennedy, executive director of RTSIS said. “We know that in order to heal a community, that we have to be a voice, and so being that voice means hearing from people’s stories and sharing those stories of success and hope.” Organizers said they appreciate senior leadership from the Regina Police Service and Regina Fire department walking along in support. Members of those services deal with the fallout from drug addictions every day.
