Thunderchild First Nation's flag. (Image Credit: The Canadian Encyclopedia)

By Alyssa Rudolph

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‘Gangs are never an option’: Thunderchild First Nation hosts community anti-gang conference

Feb 23, 2026 | 12:55 PM

For Betty Anne Shankar, director of prevention for Thunderchild First Nation, bringing awareness to gang prevention is crucial.  

“We are seeing recruitment happening at younger ages. Gangs target the vulnerable youth, and we’ve seen that in our area, but it’s happening everywhere. Prevention means stepping in early,” she said.  

That’s why Thunderchild First Nation is hosting a large-scale community anti-gang conference on Feb 27. The event will bring together local communities, leadership, and law enforcement to openly talk about the realities of gang involvement.  

“We are creating a space where youth can hear real stories, understand the risks, and learn about positive alternatives rooted in culture, mentorship, and community support,” Shankar said.  

Many speakers will join the conference including professional boxer; Nate Diaz, Toronto Argonauts football player; Sage Doxtater, and Indigenous rapper; NorthSideBaby. Each speaker will share their own knowledge and lived experiences.  

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“There are also two guest speakers that are coming in the morning, they’re RCMP who worked in a gang squad in Vancouver, Canada.” 

“They talk about gang involvement and what it looks like. They’re going to have a slideshow and then they will talk about how it is not glamorous and this is what happens when you join a gang,” said Shankar. 

The event will also showcase Cree protocol and cultural teachings. Shankar said this event is designed to help youth feel empowered through connection and community strength.  

“Sometimes what happens with the youth is they don’t know their identity; they don’t know where they come from. It’s very important that we ground them with their culture and their background, so they’re not seeking attention and love somewhere else, like joining a gang,” she said. 

To respect protocol, a small feast will be held at Thunderchild First Nation four days before the event to acknowledge and give thanks to the creator.  

“When we have a feast, we are offering the food to the creator and we’re also feeding the people that are not with us. We give thanks to the Creator for its blessing and that the event will turn out and everyone will travel safe going home,” Shankar said. 

The Nation anticipates welcoming more than 1,000 guests from neighbouring communities. Admission is free for all youth, students, teachers, chaperones, and Thunderchild Band members. Members of the general public are invited to attend as well for an entry fee of $25. 

“I encourage parents, schools, and community members to support this event. It’s important that we stand together and protect our youth by giving them knowledge; giving them identity and opportunities.” 

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Alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com