Did you know that in some places, suicide rates in the Indigenous population is more than 20 times higher than in the non-Indigenous population? The cause of these suicides is mostly intergenerational trauma from abuse and racism experienced by Indigenous people after colonization. Also, it is proven that these suicides are mostly committed by youth. Imagine having such a traumatic past that you are already having suicidal thoughts as a child! The mortality rate of the Indigenous population is reaching an alarming level and nobody seems to be taking it seriously.  The worst part is that suicides rates seem to be increasing.  What can we do about it? That's the real question.

These suicides are consequences of acculturation.  We,  as a nation who has had residential schools and  a general history of poor treatment of  Indigenous people, should take full responsibility in helping them heal. Their suffering is directly caused by our countries past lack of respect towards Indigenous culture and lifestyle. How can we , fellow secondary students, help deal with these issues in order to restore peace within our nation? We can speak up! Use your social media platforms to talk about these issues to make more people aware of what is happening right next door. There is also a very important petition you can sign on Amnesty international to encourage the government to honor the rights of Indigenous people. By starting the healing process, we can help suicide rates go down slowly but surely. This way, we can start living as a united group instead of having a remarkable separation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Do your part! Share this information and help spread awareness about Indigenous issues. You could save a life.