Indigenous Knowledge & Life Promotion: Changing Narratives on Suicide Prevention
September 10 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day. On this day, people will gather in communities across Canada and around the world to show support for suicide prevention efforts, to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have died by suicide, to comfort those who grieve the loss of a loved one to suicide and to strengthen connections and community together.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) is marking this day by hosting a free and live, virtual event entitled, Indigenous Knowledge and Life Promotion: Changing Narratives on Suicide, featuring guest speakers Elder John Rice and Lindsay DuPré.
Join Elder John and Lindsay as they share insights into how Indigenous Knowledge can shift perspectives on suicide. Elder John is a third-degree member of the Three Fires Midewiwin Society and Elder/Knowledge Holder at Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services. He has an incredible ability to weave and harmonize Traditional Knowledge and Teachings into mainstream work. Grounded in her lived experiences as a Métis scholar, mom and auntie, Lindsay will explore how our relationships with Knowledge shape our wellbeing and our sense of community liveability. Her presentation will highlight the rigour of Indigenous Science and its potential for shaping life promotion strategies.
Life promotion is rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural teachings, and shifts the narrative from crisis response to one of hope, healing and empowerment. At its core, Life Promotion is about celebrating life. Rather than focusing solely on suicide prevention, it embraces a “language of life”—a strengths-based approach that emphasizes belonging, meaning, purpose and hope. This philosophy aligns with the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework, which recognizes that wellness is deeply connected to culture, land, spirituality and community.
Following the presentation, there will be a Q & A and closing segment, with attendees encouraged to participate in a “Global Candle Vigil” by placing a candle in their window to “Light a Flame of Hope” at 8:00 pm in their respective time zones.
This WSPD event will be held on Wednesday, September 10th, 12:00-1:30 PM ET and registration is required (link below).
