Fort Belknap holds second annual anti-meth symposium

The Fort Belknap Indian Reservation will hold its second annual Meth Symposium Friday to discuss the problems of methamphetamine and prescription drug addiction in Indian Country.

Miranda Crasco Kirk, a founder of the Aaniiih Nakoda Anti-Drug Movement, said every few months one of Montana’s Indian Reservations hosts a symposium with representatives from different tribes, including users on the path to recovery. Others, social workers and treatment advocates, gather to share insights and advice on how to combat methamphetamine use and prescription drug abuse.

“It’s a good way for all the tribes to put their heads together, see what everybody is doing, and to draw from each other and work with each other,” Crasco Kirk said.

The gathering will take place in the Cultural Center at Aaniiih Nakoda College at 8 a.m.

Six speakers will make presentations as well as one panel presenting the problem and outlining potential solutions, she said.

Successfully combatting the widespread problem of methamphetamine and substance abuse must be a collaborative effort, Crasco Kirk added.

“We need to really network together and have strong communications from one entity to another to better serve our community members,” she said.

The event is free and open to the public.

Lunch will also be provided to those in attendance, Crasco Kirk said.