On Seskéha/August 28, 2026, the Alcohol and Chemical Dependency Program hosted the annual International Overdose Awareness Day (IOD) at Generations Park to honor the lives lost to overdose, support those affected by substance use, and share resources that can help save lives.
In 2024, over 53,000 deaths were reported around the country due to overdose. 65.1% of those deaths were caused by illegal fentanyl use. Behind every statistic is a real person. IOD is a time to honor them, recognize the grief of families, and support individuals affected by substance use and recovery.
Tribal Chief Ross Garrow shared, "As we gather with heavy hearts, we think of our loved ones who have struggled with addiction. To those who are choosing a sober lifestyle, we should show them love, support, and not to judge them." He shared a deeply personal story of a loved one's battle with addiction and recovery. "My sister chose a sober life, and she recently celebrated one year in recovery and I’m so very proud of her. As we do our walk, let’s keep our loved ones in our thoughts."
Community members penned heartfelt messages of support and honored passed loved ones on glowing luminaires, passing their message to the sky in hopes of reaching someone in need.
The Outpatient Program Coordinator, Trish Garrow shared, "This year was our best turnout for our annual International Overdose Awareness Event; 146 community members attended in honor of loved ones who have passed. Many niá:wens Akwesasne."
If you or a loved one is experiencing hardships due to addiction, please reach out to A/CDP at (518) 358-3145. Know that you are not alone. Together, we can end the stigma around drug abuse, end the silence, and end overdose once and for all.