First Nation leaders in northern Ontario are advocating for the establishment of an Indigenous-led search-and-rescue pilot program following the tragic deaths of five individuals, including three from Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) communities, in Thunder Bay earlier this year.
At their annual Keewaywin Conference, chiefs representing NAN, which represents 49 First Nations across Treaties 9 and 5, voted in favor of launching a NAN search-and-rescue pilot initiative. The proposed program, named NAN SAR, aims to offer search coordination, trained personnel, volunteer support, family assistance, crisis response, and other aid when NAN members go missing in the region.
Recognizing the limitations of NAN as a political-territorial organization, it has pledged to back a designated operator to oversee the program’s operations. NAN Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler emphasized the need for an independent Indigenous-led search unit that respects culturally appropriate search methods, expressing dissatisfaction with the current system.
The recent incidents involving the disappearances and deaths of Ashlynn Bottle, Nodin Skunk, and Kelsey Anderson have deeply affected NAN communities. The Thunder Bay Police Service faced criticism for its handling of these cases, with Indigenous searchers highlighting the lack of regard for their input and traditional search techniques.
Bottle and Skunk, members of Mishkeegogamang First Nation, were last seen together in late April, while Anderson, with ties to several First Nations, went missing in early May. Their tragic outcomes underscore the urgency for a more culturally sensitive and community-oriented approach to search and rescue operations.
Thunder Bay Police Chief Darcy Fleury expressed support for the NAN SAR concept, recognizing the value of Indigenous knowledge in search efforts. He emphasized the importance of effective communication and collaboration between law enforcement and community groups to enhance search outcomes and public trust.
Efforts to address systemic issues within the Thunder Bay Police Service, including ongoing provincial reviews, aim to improve policing practices and build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities. The proposed NAN SAR program represents a step towards empowering Indigenous communities and enhancing search and rescue capabilities in the region.
Support resources are available for those affected by missing and murdered Indigenous people, with a national hotline offering immediate emotional assistance and crisis support around the clock.
