Brandon Group Hosts Events for World Suicide Prevention Day

A local suicide prevention organization in Brandon, Canada, is set to host a series of events aimed at raising awareness and encouraging discussion around suicide. The events, organized by the Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN), will take place on September 9 and 10, 2023, in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day. This year’s theme is “changing the narrative,” focusing on reducing stigma and fostering open conversations about suicide.

On September 9, SPIN will conduct a free, three-hour SafeTALK training session from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Brandon University. Although all spots are currently filled, the training is designed for individuals aged 15 and older. Participants will learn to recognize the signs of someone experiencing suicidal thoughts and how to connect them with appropriate support and resources.

The following day, SPIN will host its annual event at the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will begin with an opening prayer, followed by remarks from Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett and greetings from local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Ashley Cornect, an administrative, promotions, and outreach worker for SPIN, highlighted that this year’s focus will be on “1,000 reasons to live,” featuring activities that promote messages of hope.

During the event, SPIN will also present five awards of excellence to individuals and organizations recognized for their outstanding contributions to suicide prevention. Additionally, a performance of a small excerpt from the play “Every Brilliant Thing” by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe will be featured. The play tells the story of a narrator who attempts to illustrate to his mother, who is struggling with suicidal thoughts, that there are countless reasons to choose life.

On the evening of September 10, SPIN will host a ribbon-tying ceremony at Errol Black Park. At 7 p.m., participants will tie yellow and orange ribbons on the First Street Bridge, commemorating individuals who have lost their lives to suicide. Cornect explained that the choice of the bridge is part of an ongoing advocacy effort to install protective barriers to prevent suicides, similar to those installed on the 18th Street Bridge during renovations.

Lacerte emphasized the importance of these events in conveying a message of hope and community support. “We want to make sure people know that they’re not alone,” she stated. The events aim to create a supportive environment where individuals can engage in meaningful dialogue about mental health and suicide prevention.