Giwiidosendamin Certificate Program – Responding to Addictions and Suicide With Decolonized Practices

Rooted in the Ojibwe concept of giwiidosendamin (“we walk together”), this five-day program emphasizes collective health, shared support, and reciprocal learning. By integrating Indigenous and Western perspectives, you will gain the skills and knowledge to support individuals, families, and communities through addictions, suicide, and related mental health concerns, using a two-eyed seeing approach.

Your co-facilitators will guide you through the impacts of addictions and suicide, the connection between trauma and addictions, and the role of cultural perspectives in decolonization efforts. This is a unique opportunity to learn practical harm reduction and recovery capital approaches to addictions support, as well as life-affirming strategies for suicide prevention. You will enhance your ability to provide meaningful and respectful support within Indigenous spaces.

By the end of the program, you will have a comprehensive understanding of addictions and suicide, and be able to implement key prevention, assessment, intervention, and postvention resources. You will also learn how to apply culturally respectful practices, support decolonization efforts, and utilize harm reduction strategies. This enriching program not only enhances professional skills but also encourages personal growth and self-reflection, empowering you to make a positive impact in your community.