REDBY, Minn. – Several organizations sponsored a Drug and Gang Summit at the Red Lake Humanities Center – with programs also going on in the schools – took place Feb.14 and 15 from 8 to 4 p.m. on each day. The event included more than 12 presenters and facilitators.
The summit, entitled ”Listening to One Another” drew nearly 200 registered participants. Its mission was to educate and mobilize tribal agencies, professionals, schools and community members in efforts against illegal drugs and crimes on the Red Lake Reservation. The goal was to produce committees that would advise communities on how to effectively address issues of crime, drugs and violence while working closely with district representatives and the Red Lake Tribal Council. The two-day summit was considered a success.
Activities included presentations, gang awareness, strategic planning, addiction from a psychological perspective, and information on drugs including methamphetamines, crack/cocaine, marijuana and alcohol. Information was also provided by Red Lake programs, including chemical health programs and Red Lake courts. Afternoon activities included break out groups and panel discussions.
The evening of Feb. 15 was a time for entertainment with the acclaimed Canadian hip-hop group Reddnation as the headliner, and special guest Happy Frejo.
Sponsors for the events at the Humanities Center included Red Lake Tribal Council, Indian and Free, Red Lake Project Safe Neighborhoods, Red Lake Nation Coalition, Native American Law Enforcement Summit, Fox Valley Technical College, Seven Clans Casino, Ponemah Outpatient, Warrior Down and Comprehensive Health Services.
