The Māori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa, New Zealand, and settled on the island from Polynesia by waka (canoe), where they originated from time immemorial. They hosted the Indigenous World Language Conference in 2004, and the intent was to learn what other indigenous cultures were doing to preserve their language heritage. Nelson Toulouse, from Sagamok, and a large group other First Nations people from across North America flew to New Zealand to attend.

Stigma is a significant barrier to talking openly about substance use and can prevent people from accessing support or treatment. Stigma (prejudice and discrimination) begins with the labeling of differences and negative stereotyping of people, creating a separation between “us” and “them.” Those who are stigmatized are devalued and subjected to discrimination, which is unjust treatment. This can lead to disadvantage and inequitable social and health outcomes.

Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, Sagamok Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation Partner in Historic, Collaborative Agreement with Successful Canadian Mining Contractor