Based on coverage from CKRW, Yukon News, and the Yukon Government.
Yukon Forum Aims to Rebuild Trust and Collaboration
In a significant step towards strengthening relationships, the Yukon government and First Nations leadership co-chaired their first Yukon Forum together last week. Premier Currie Dixon and Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Math’ieya Alatini led the meeting, which included newly elected cabinet ministers and chiefs from across the territory. This gathering, held in Whitehorse on the Traditional Territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, marked the third Yukon Forum of the year and the first under the new leadership.
The forum provided an early opportunity for First Nations leaders to influence the government's priorities, as Premier Dixon had not yet issued mandate letters to his ministers. Dixon emphasized the importance of these discussions in shaping the new government's agenda, stating, "Part of my commitment was to foster a new path forward and working together closely to ensure that we have a strong, productive relationship that benefits all Yukoners."
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Focus on Health, Education, and Resource Management
The discussions during the forum touched on several key areas, including health, education, lands, and resources. Both Dixon and Alatini highlighted the importance of rebuilding trust, with Alatini noting a positive shift in the government's willingness to listen and incorporate feedback from First Nations leaders. "The willingness to listen and incorporate the feedback or the sharing from the Chiefs is something that I haven’t seen previously," Alatini remarked, emphasizing the importance of this change in fostering a stronger relationship.
The forum also addressed the need for collaboration with the federal government, particularly concerning the Yukon-B.C. electrical grid connect project. This proposed transmission line aims to link the isolated Yukon to the North American grid, a topic that will be further discussed when First Nations leaders meet with federal officials in Ottawa. Alatini raised questions about how nations in the territory can meaningfully participate in such projects and how they can benefit the territory, especially in terms of Arctic security and infrastructure impacts.
Commitment to Ongoing Dialogue and Shared Priorities
Both Dixon and Alatini expressed optimism about the future of their collaboration, with plans to produce a joint declaration outlining shared priorities in future meetings. The Cooperation in Governance Act of 2005 requires four Yukon Forums each year, and Dixon has committed to upholding this mandate. The exchange of gifts at the forum symbolized the mutual respect and cultural appreciation between the leaders, with Dixon receiving a beaded vest representing tradition and leadership.
The forum's outcome reflects a renewed commitment to addressing the priorities of Yukon First Nations, including health and wellness, education, housing, and land stewardship. As Alatini noted, "Our ongoing collaboration with the Government of Yukon is the foundation for meaningful progress across the territory." With open and honest discussions setting the stage, both leaders are hopeful for a healthier, more equitable future for all Yukoners.
