(Arapahoe, WY) – Arapahoe Schools held an all-student/staff “Unity Walk” today, September 13, to cap off National Suicide Awareness & Prevention Week.
“The walk is intended to remember those lost to suicide and raise awareness of the terrible tragedy that it is,” Arapaho Charter High School Guidance Counselor Dan Marquart told County 10.
Marquat explained that the Unity Walk started last year with a group of the Social/Emotional Learning staff who came together to draw attention to the Suicide Awareness Prevention Week.
“I think everybody in this school district and probably anywhere can say that they’ve had that (suicide) touch their lives in some way, shape or form,” Marquat continued.
“This is just a way for us to show unity, that we’re together, that culturally we want to address this as an issue, and stand together to try to fight against it and give kids, parents and adults an opportunity and a way to see that they are supported, loved, cared for and to offer some hope.”
Lorraine Goggles, an Arapaho Language teacher at the schools, addressed the crowd at the end of the walk, and stated that, “The whole reason that we did the suicide awareness walk is because we want you guys to be at your very best every day.”
“Remember all feelings are temporary,” Goggles continued. “Be strong in your mind and in your heart. Live the Arapahoe way of life, and it will keep you strong.”
The ceremony then concluded with a song from eighth graders Wade Spoonhunter, Clayton Wallowing Bull, Gavin Divers, Tsani Arneach and Shawn’J Monroe.
If you or anyone you know is contemplating suicide, call the 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 now or text “WYO” to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line.
For Fremont County and Wyoming resources, click here.