By Jessica Miller
The Seneca Nation of Indians is hosting indigenous community members, experts, leaders, and friends to Niagara Falls for an important and enlightening annual gathering. The 4th annual World Indigenous Suicide Prevention (WISP) Conference is scheduled from Monday, July 22 to Thursday, July 25 at Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino (310 4th St, Niagara Falls). The conference is hosted for the first time in the United States by the Onondawaga/Seneca nation and has the 2024 theme of “Reclaiming Indigenous Resiliency and Hope”. Attendees will gain knowledge of how to apply their nations’ culturally relevant resources to prevent suicides in their communities, as will successful practices and pertinent research.
Native American and Alaska Native communities are especially impacted by this epidemic. Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death among indigenous people, a rate that is above the national average. The rates of indigenous suicides between 1999-2019 greatly increased by 139% with men’s deaths increased by 71%. These concerning statistics make it clear that there is a great need for resources and support to avoid further losses and to care for the survivors facing the loss of loved ones.
“We need to come together to find solutions to fight this crisis and better reach people in our communities who are struggling,” said Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong, Sr. “Too many of our people, especially young people with so much light ahead of them, have fallen victim to darkness, leaving far too many Indigenous families and communities with questions that can never be answered and pain that will never heal.”
The World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference is accepting registrations, volunteers, and sponsorships online at https://thewispc.com/. General attendees and tribal leaders/dignitaries can attend for $500; elders 60+ can attend for $400; youth 18-24 can attend for $350. Registration also includes meals, access to the artisan and vendor marketplace, a trade show, networking opportunities, and discounted lodging.
Golfers will also have the opportunity to play in support of the conference on May 18. A charity golf tournament to support the conference will be held Saturday May 18 at Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course (4560 Creek Rd, Lewiston) from 9 AM-7 PM. USGA rules apply to the tournament, and entry includes continental breakfast, lunch, awards, and a premium swag bag. Individuals, teams, and sponsors can register at https://golfersofalltribes.com/event-registration.