B.C. First Nation launching new support system for people at risk of entering justice system
Posted June 13, 2023 5:57 pm.
A First Nation from Alkali Lake, B.C. is launching an “intervention circle” in order to support those who may be at risk of committing crime and entering the justice system.
In a release issued Tuesday afternoon, the provincial government says it will be providing $66,000 to the Esk’etemc First Nation to support the project.
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This intervention circle is the first of its kind in the province and brings together multiple levels of the community to offer support. The project’s overall goal is to work “collaboratively to reduce the over-representation of Indigenous people in the justice system by preventing crime, reducing harm, and increasing community safety.”
“It’s crucial that people have access to culturally sensitive supports when and where they need them,” Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth said.
“Ensuring public safety and advancing meaningful, lasting reconciliation are interconnected. The Esk’etemc-led intervention circle will help people find culturally sensitive pathways to healing in their own community and prevent incarceration of Indigenous people.”
Kúkpi7 (Chief) Fred Robbins says the program will help support community members.
“I see the challenges ahead; the next generation must know there is support and that the community is ready to provide services in a proactive manner to stop the cycle of intergenerational trauma,” Robbins said.
“Information is power and giving the power back to the people who need support in a collaborative environment will provide the community with a full circle of support and help in healing together.”
The intervention circle works alongside the already-existing Safer Communities Action Plan, a plan that aims to connect people with mental health and addiction-related support.
The B.C. government notes Indigenous people account for five per cent of the province’s overall population, but make up 30 per cent of people currently in custody — a number the intervention circle aims to reduce.
