National American Indian Sobriety Month recognized on the Saginaw Chippewa Isabella Reservation

Observer Staff

1/25/2005 12:00:00 AM

"Well Nations" magazine has declared August to be National American Indian Sobriety Month and is requesting that all Native communities join them in recognizing this time of wellness.

In an effort to raise awareness on the Isabella Reservation, a group of 13 community members and employees came together on July 13 in the Old Senior's Room at Tribal Operations to discuss the impact of alcohol and drugs on the community, as well as to plan activities promoting sobriety.

Those in attendance shared many ideas and expressed hope for a stronger, healthier community by educating the public. The group consensus was to focus on the effects drugs and alcohol have on the individual, family, and community while encouraging other positive life-style changes.

With this is mind, pledge cards declaring a commitment of sobriety for the month of August are in circulation to be signed and displayed throughout Tribal Operations.

Individuals who have already chosen a life free from alcohol and drugs or those wishing to begin the journey may sign a pledge card honoring themselves and supporting community wellness.

Cards will be available throughout Tribal departments and businesses. They may be dropped in various labeled boxes or envelopes, or mailed to Behavioral Health 2585 S. Leaton Rd. Mt. Pleasant,MI 48858.

Also during August, look for American Indian Sobriety Month buttons and green ribbons of support.

Daily messages regarding sobriety will be displayed on the employee groupwise system and throughout the Reservation. Read these messages, display them, talk to your children, family, and friends about them.

A Basketball Tournament is slated in the Tribal Operations Parking Lot on Aug. 18 starting at 5:30 p.m. For more information contact Josh Lintz at (989) 775-4911.

The Baby Celebration is scheduled for Aug. 24 at 5:30 p.m. at Seventh Generation.

A one evening Wellbriety Powwow will also take place at Seventh Generation to honor sobriety on Aug. 31 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Several of these events are still in the planning stages. If you are interested in helping, call Eliza at (989) 775-4995 or Gwen at (989) 775-4994.

While there is a committee formed to promote this month of sobriety, remember to participate by encouraging family and friends to hold their own sober events, support each other to make good choices, and by starting a campaign in your neighborhoods, place of work, schools or community groups.

"Well Nations" magazine will be writing an article on all activities that take place in recognition of American Indian Sobriety Month. If you plan your own activities, please let us know by calling (989) 775-4994 so that we can make the staff of "Well Nations" aware of your efforts.