Brandon Hosts Three Events for World Suicide Prevention Day

A local suicide prevention group in Brandon is organizing three significant events to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2023. Under the theme “changing the narrative,” the events aim to foster open discussions about suicide and reduce associated stigma.

Brenda Lacerte, board chair of the Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN), emphasized the importance of kindness and support in addressing mental health issues. “We have to be kind and supportive in every way, shape and form because it could be ourselves or someone that we love who are struggling, and we want to make sure that people know that they’re not alone,” she stated.

The first event will take place on September 9 at Brandon University from 18:00 to 21:00. SPIN will conduct a three-hour SafeTALK training session designed for individuals aged 15 and older. Although registration is currently full, the training aims to equip participants with skills to recognize signs of suicidal thoughts and connect individuals to essential support resources.

The following day, September 10, SPIN will host its annual community event at the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex from 11:30 to 13:00. This event will feature an opening prayer, remarks from Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett, and greetings from local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Ashley Cornect, SPIN’s administrative, promotions, and outreach worker, noted that activities will focus on the theme “1,000 reasons to live.”

During the event, SPIN will also present five awards of excellence to individuals or organizations recognized for their outstanding contributions to suicide prevention. Additionally, a performance of the play “Every Brilliant Thing,” written by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe, will highlight the importance of finding hope in everyday life. Lacerte described the play as a narrative where a son tries to help his mother see the reasons for living, illustrating how small joys can make a significant difference.

The final event will occur at 19:00 on September 10, when participants will gather at the First Street Bridge for a ribbon-tying ceremony. Cornect explained that yellow and orange ribbons will be tied to the bridge in memory of those who have lost their lives to suicide. The choice of the First Street Bridge is significant, as SPIN is advocating for protective barriers to be installed to prevent future tragedies. “It’s been on our radar for a long time that the bridges should both have those,” Cornect added, referencing the recently renovated 18th Street Bridge that now features such barriers.

Lacerte hopes the events will inspire participants to choose life and feel assured that they are not alone in their struggles. “We want to make sure people know that they’re not alone,” she reiterated, emphasizing the collective responsibility to support one another in times of need.

These events reflect a broader commitment to mental health awareness in the community, encouraging open conversations about suicide prevention and the importance of support networks.