Mapping the Way: Yukon First Nation Self-Government

Script

A single document can change the world.

It can spark a movement and set in motion changes for future generations.

In 1973, Yukon First Nation leaders presented Together Today for our Children Tomorrow to the Prime Minister of Canada, mapping the way to Yukon First Nation land claims and self-government.

"We're here to talk about our future. We are not here looking for a handout." Elijah Smith, Chief of the Yukon Native Brotherhood (1973)

In 1993, the Umbrella Final Agreement was signed, confirming a people's right to determine their own fate. Now, 11 Yukon First Nations are self-governing.

Math'ieya Alatini, Chief, Kluane First Nation: "We get to steer our own future. We get to guide where we're going to go, and we don't have to rely on a Minister of Aboriginal Affairs to say 'yes, you can do this' or 'no, you can't'. And that's huge."

Together, we're creating a brighter future for all Yukoners.

Peter Johnston, Teslin Tlingit Council Citizen: "For me, Together Today for our Children Tomorrow means unity. I think the basis of that is for us to succeed all together."

We have a story to tell.

Together Today for our Children Tomorrow stands as a collective vision and a celebration of our past, present and future.

Eddie Taylor, Chief, Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in First Nation: "The meaning of that slogan was for all the children in Canada, not just First Nation children. I'd just like to acknowledge all our past leaders; they've done great things for our people. Mahsi Cho (Thank you). "

Links

Visit mappingtheway.ca to learn more about Yukon First Nation Self-Government.

Credits

Special thanks to Yukon Archives, the Whitehorse Star, the Yukon News, Archbould Photography and all the individuals who helped to make this video possible.

Producer/Director/Editor: Brendan Preston Video + Photography

A production of the Yukon Implementation Working Group (2013)