Maria Canton
Northern News Services

Qikiqtarjuaq (Dec 13/99) - An annual essay contest is held every year in Qikiqtarjuaq (Broughton Island) to encourage students to express their thoughts and feelings about alcohol and drug use.

"I'm always pleased and proud with all of the essays submitted," said Jukie Nookiguak, chairperson for the local Alcohol and Drug Committee, which sponsors the contest and judges the entries.

"We're neither shocked nor surprised at what the students write, sometimes it is their only way to tell what they feel. And when we read what the kids have to say, it is more positive than negative."

Four students were recently awarded cash prizes for their efforts in the event. Every student was asked to submit an answer to the question "In what ways do drugs and alcohol have bad effects on your physical health, your personal life and your family life?"

Timed to coincide with the recent National Addictions Awareness Week, Nookiguak says the contest is an effective means of approaching the subject.

Grade 10 student Rosemary Kooneeliusie, who was one of the winners, said if youth were more aware of the harmful health effects smoking, drinking and sniffing have on the body, they may be less apt to try them.

"I don't think they've really been told what alcohol, smoking and sniffing can do to their bodies," said Kooneeliusie.

"It also helps to talk to each other about preventing substance use, but it is difficult for younger kids to know who to talk to."

Jamie Aliqatuqtuq, 16, who also won a cash prize, wrote about the highly addictive nature of drugs and alcohol and the surrounding issues, such as suicide and violence.

He says Qikiqtarjuaq is on the right track with alternative programs for youth.

"There are programs available here, like hockey, volleyball, youth groups and going on the land," he said.

Aliqatuqtuq says keeping youth busy in the community will help those who already have problems and will possibly prevent some from starting.

According to Cpl. Grant McDonald, education and awareness are key in teaching kids about using substances.

McDonald is in his second year of teaching the Drug Awareness Resistance Education (DARE) program to grades 7-8 and 9-10 students at the school.

The other two contest winners were Olasie Kooneeliusie and Lucy Arnaquq.