Annie Blake, the NDP MLA for Vuntut Gwitchin, is stepping away from her duties as she goes on medical leave to address substance abuse problems.
Blake, a first-term member of the legislative assembly, announced the move on social media Tuesday.
“I have recently taken time to reflect on this role and my current health challenges. After careful consideration, I’ve decided to take a leave of absence to focus on my health and well-being,” she said.
“For the past while, I have experienced several repeated traumatizing events, as well as the loss of several close friends and relatives. I’ve realized that this has taken a major toll on my mental and physical health.”
“These experiences and the ongoing effects of trauma has left me coping in ways that are not sustainable for me, which has led me to use substances in ways that are not healthy. As someone who has been open and honest about my history of substance use, I know that I need to address this and seek support, and this is what I am prioritizing.”
Blake defeated then-Liberal incumbent Pauline Frost in the 2021 election.
Blake added, “For someone in a public role, it is so hard and scary to admit when we’re struggling. However, I want to be open and honest with my community and all Yukoners because that is how we break down stigma and shame.
“I am seeking support for myself because there is no shame in needing help. And there is no shame in relapsing.
“The important thing is how we choose to respond to those setbacks and what action we take. I need to take time to heal and recover, and to get my strength back.”
Blake promised she will return to her MLA role at some point.
“I have great trust and confidence in my leader, Kate White, and colleague Lane Tredger, to provide support to my constituents and community members during my absence,” she said.
NDP Leader Kate White said her colleague “has always been a trailblazer, and she has always stood against stigma and shame; I am so proud of her for having the bravery and strength to ask for help when she needed it.
“Myself and the Yukon NDP team are standing behind her. While Annie is on leave, I want the citizens of Vuntut Gwitchin and anyone else in the territory to know that myself and the Yukon NDP are here to support you – please do not hesitate to reach out to me or our team.”
Premier Ranj Pillai was also quick to offer support to Blake.
“In light of MLA for Vuntut Gwitchin Annie Blake’s decision to take a leave of absence, I would like to express my support during this time,” he said.
“As elected officials, we are honoured with the task of representing Yukoners across the territory. To do this job well, it is crucial that we take care of ourselves, too – something that looks different for everyone.
“On behalf of the Yukon Liberal caucus, I would like to reaffirm our support for the decision of MLA Blake to take the necessary time to heal and recover. I would also like to recognize the courage and honesty it took to share this with us, and to ask for help when needed,” Pillai added.
“We wish MLA Blake strength throughout this time of healing.”
The Yukon NDP had no official comment on the situation.