The quiet courage that comes from defending a community’s children rarely makes headlines, but that’s exactly what’s happening on Kehewin Cree Nation, just two hours east of Edmonton.
Last week, I spent time with Chief Trevor John and several community members who shared their hopes and challenges following their landmark decision to implement a drug and alcohol ban on the Nation’s territory.
“Our children deserve to grow up in safety,” Chief John told me as we walked past the community school. “Every decision we make now affects seven generations ahead.”
The ban, enacted through a Band Council Resolution, demonstrates powerful Indigenous self-governance at work. It gives Kehewin’s peace officers authority to stop vehicles, search for prohibited substances, and remove non-members found in possession of alcohol or drugs.
For many residents, this measure represents something deeper than policy – it’s about healing.
Elder Mary Gadwa invited me into her home, where family photos covered nearly every wall. Over tea, she explained the community’s motivation.
“We’ve seen too many young people lost,” she said, gently touching a photo of her grandchildren. “This isn’t just about rules. It’s about remembering who we are and protecting our most vulnerable.”
The statistics support these concerns. According to Health Canada, substance abuse issues affect Indigenous communities at rates significantly higher than the general population, with historical trauma and colonial policies recognized as root factors.
What makes Kehewin’s approach noteworthy is its community-led nature. During my three-day visit, I witnessed multiple talking circles where members discussed implementation challenges and shared personal stories of recovery.
Jordan Cardinal, a 23-year-old community member who recently completed treatment, spoke candidly about his journey.
“Having these boundaries helps me stay accountable,” he said. “When I know substances aren’t welcome here, it gives me strength on difficult days. I want younger kids to see there’s another way.”
The ban isn’t without its critics. Some residents expressed concerns about enforcement consistency and potential impacts on traditional ceremonial practices. Chief John acknowledges these challenges.
“We’re navigating this carefully,” he explained. “Our approach honors ceremonial uses while focusing enforcement on substances that harm our community fabric.”
What struck me most was the holistic vision behind the ban. It exists alongside expanded cultural programming, on-reserve counseling services, and economic development initiatives – all part of a comprehensive wellness strategy.
Sarah Dion, who coordinates youth programs, showed me their new cultural center where traditional arts and language classes operate daily.
“Young people need positive alternatives and strong cultural identities,” she said as teens worked on beading projects nearby. “The ban creates safer spaces, but these programs give youth somewhere to belong.”
Provincial officials have taken notice. Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations expressed support for Kehewin’s sovereignty in implementing community-based solutions.
As evening fell on my final day, I attended a community feast where three generations gathered to share food and stories. Children played freely while adults discussed upcoming cultural events.
Community member Robert Youngchief summed up the community’s determination: “We’re protecting our future by remembering our past. This isn’t just about what we’re saying no to – it’s about saying yes to our children’s wellbeing.”
For Kehewin Cree Nation, this ban represents more than prohibition – it’s an assertion of their inherent right to determine community standards and protect their most precious resource: the next generation.
As I drove back toward Edmonton, watching the sun set over Treaty 6 Territory, I couldn’t help reflecting on how this community’s courage offers lessons for us all about prioritizing collective wellbeing over individual convenience.
Sometimes, true freedom comes through the boundaries we create together.
