WARNING: This story contains references to suicide.
Josh Nanokeesic’s mother says she doesn’t want anyone else to suffer the same way he did, which is what motivated her to walk nearly 400 kilometres from Sioux Lookout, Ont., to Thunder Bay.
Nanokeesic was 16 years old when he was severely bullied, beaten and died of his injuries in 2015 in Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, a remote community also known as Big Trout Lake.
Three teens were charged with second-degree murder and aggravated assault in connection with the incident.
A decade later, Nanokeesic’s uncle, Steven Morris, led the third and final Bullying Awareness Walk in his memory.
“I decided to help him on this walk this time,” said Roseann Thomas, Nanokeesic’s mother. “Trying to stop bullying because too many kids have been [lost] already through suicide, and they’re being bullied by other peers.”
About a dozen walkers, representing Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug and Kingfisher Lake First Nation, participated in the two-week journey, carrying signs with photos of Nanokeesic and a list of names of other First Nation members who lost their lives to bullying and violence.
The walk was sponsored by Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug Dibenjikewin Onaakonikewin (KIDO), also known as KI Family Law. It ended at Thunder Bay City Hall on Monday, followed by a community gathering.
In a Facebook post, KIDO applauded the family’s efforts to support First Nations youth.
“Steven Morris, first walked from Sioux to Thunder Bay so Roseann could be by Josh’s side in the hospital and again in 2016 for awareness. This third and final journey, sponsored by KIDO, is about healing, remembrance, and building compassion and understanding.”
Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), a political territorial organization which represents 49 First Nations across Treaties 9 and 5, also recognized the walkers online.
“After two powerful weeks on foot, the Bullying Awareness Walk from Sioux Lookout to Thunder Bay has come to a close,” NAN said on Facebook on Monday. “Miigwetch to everyone who has shown support along the way.”
While this year’s event marks the family’s final walk, Thomas said she wants to make sure her son is always remembered.
“We’re raising awareness,” she said.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here’s where to get help:
- Nishnawbe Aski Mental Health and Addictions Support Access Program: 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673) Open 24/7. Crisis support phone line for NAN members.
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: Text or call 9-8-8 for mental health support. Open 24/7.
- Hope for Wellness: 1-855-242-3310 Open 24/7. Provides free phone and live online chat counselling on the website for Indigenous people. Support available in Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin), Cree and Inuktitut upon request.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Open 24/7. Free phone and live chat counselling on the website for youth in Canada.
- Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre.
- This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health outlines how to talk about suicide with someone you’re worried about.
