Understanding Our Data Together – Gathering for Mental Health and Substance Use Data
February 2025
This past winter, Mamow Ahyamowen continued its work of turning data into meaningful, stories by exploring the context behind the numbers. From February 4–6, 2025, people from participating Mamow Ahyamowen Organizations and communities gathered in Thunder Bay for a co-interpretation session focused on mental health and substance use.
The session brought people together to look beyond the numbers, diving into the stories and realities behind the data. Together, participants explored whether the findings reflected First Nations’ experiences, identified gaps in what was shared, and validated what resonated with their communities.
By working collaboratively, attendees helped shape the interpretation of the data to better reflect community contexts. Their insights are now helping to refine analysis and ensure that upcoming reports truly speak to the challenges and strengths within each region.
Once developed, these reports will be shared back with communities and regional partners. They are intended to support advocacy, program design, and conversations around mental wellness and substance use—grounded in data that communities recognize as their own. This gathering reaffirmed that data must be rooted in lived experience. Through collaboration, we move beyond the numbers to understand the context—and to see the adults, children, Elders, and loved ones behind the data.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who shared their time, knowledge, and expertise during this gathering. Your contributions are a powerful reminder of the value of collaboration and the strength of community-led efforts. This session was a reflection of what’s possible when we come together with shared purpose—and we’re excited to continue this important work in the months ahead as we finalize and share the reports.
A heartfelt Chi-Miigwetch to Ron Kanutski for serving as our MC and bringing great energy to the event. We also extend a Chi-Miigwech to Ingaged for their incredible support throughout. Not only did they help to make the event a success, they also welcomed us as the very first group to use their beautiful brand-new space, The Outset. While we focused on the content, they worked behind the scenes to ensure a smooth, welcoming, and positive experience for all involved. Their care and coordination helped make this gathering truly meaningful.
