Six Nations elected council sending $2,500 to James Smith Cree Nation after mass stabbings

WARNING: This story contains distressing details.

The elected council of Six Nations of the Grand River, Ont., is sending $2,500 and condolences to James Smith Cree Nation in Saskatchewan after mass stabbings that left 11 people dead, including one suspect, and 18 injured.

Mark Hill, chief of the elected council, told CBC Hamilton the money will be sent Wednesday.

“I know in a time like this, nothing really is to the same effect of what it would have to have those loved ones still here,” he said, adding the council is willing to fly people out there to help with efforts on the ground if needed.

“We want to make sure their nation and communities know Six Nations is here and willing to help wherever need be.”

The council issued a statement earlier Tuesday sending its “deepest condolences to James Smith Cree Nation, Chief Wally Burns, and the loved ones of those affected by this horrific incident.”

“We are sending comfort, courage, and good medicine your way as your community processes this shocking violence and unspeakable loss.”

The Haudenosaunee Confederacy Chiefs Council — the traditional, hereditary leaders of Six Nations — didn’t immediately comment on the situation, but spokesperson Courtney Skye said in an email the chiefs may organize a fundraiser or efforts to support James Smith Cree Nation next week.

While the deadly stabbings happened in Saskatchewan on Sunday, news from there has sent shock waves throughout the country. It’s unclear how many Cree people live in Six Nations, but Hill said there are some.

Hill said he was preparing for a friend’s wedding when he first heard about what was occurring. 

“I really had no words, I was just thinking of all those communities and families who have lost a loved one due to such senseless acts of violence,” Hill said.

“There’s going to be much healing that needs to take place.”

He emphasized the need to to check in on people’s mental health.

Six Nations has a 24-hour crisis line at 1-866-445-2204.

There are also mental health and addictions services on Six Nations that can be called at 519-445-2143 and are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. 

One of the two brothers accused in the attacks that took place in James Smith Cree Nation and nearby Weldon, Sask., Damien Sanderson, 31, was found dead with wounds that did not appear to be self-inflicted, Saskatchewan RCMP said Monday evening. 

As of Tuesday afternoon, police were still looking for Myles Sanderson, 30, who’s charged with first-degree murder and other offences. 

The James Smith Cree Nation and sister First Nation communities are asking for food and monetary donations in the wake of the killings.

In an open letter being shared on social media, the Cree Nation, alongside chiefs and council from Peter Chapman Band and Chakastaypasin Band, have asked for food, money, and disposable dishware and cutlery.

Family members of Sask. stabbing victims describe terrifying scene Family members of victims of the stabbing rampage in Saskatchewan share details about their loved ones while describing the terror inflicted on their communities.

The group of First Nation communities declared a state of emergency at noon Sunday.

Local donations for the Cree Nation can be delivered to the Bernard Constant Community School gymnasium.

The group asked that any monetary donations be given as gift cards, cheques or cash, and that donations would be logged.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief RoseAnne Archibald passed along a request for donations of food, disposable plates and cutlery as well.

Support is available for anyone affected by the latest reports. You can talk to a mental health professional via Wellness Together Canada by calling 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 686868 for youth or 741741 for adults. It is free and confidential. 

The Hope for Wellness hotline offers immediate help to Indigenous people across Canada. Mental health counselling and crisis support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-855-242-3310 or by online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.