Together Today for our Children Tomorrow:

50^th Anniversary

“These celebrations truly honour the journey and the stories of the leaders whose vision and determination have had an unprecedented and immeasurable impact on the lives of Yukon First Nations and Yukoners alike.”

The presentation of Together Today for our Children Tomorrow to Prime Minister Trudeau on February 14, 1973 by Yukon First Nations Chiefs and leaders set the course for Yukon First Nations land claims and self-government.

The collective and trailblazing movement included all Yukon First Nations and is a highly praised model for self-determination that has influenced Indigenous peoples across Canada and around the world.   The document, its creation and enduring legacy represent an historically significant event to be celebrated and shared for the benefit of Canadians and all Yukoners.

To honour our 50th anniversary, the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) is planning a week of celebrations in February 2023. These CYFN-led and Yukon First Nation-focused celebrations truly honour the journey and the stories of the leaders whose vision and determination have had an unprecedented and immeasurable impact on the lives of Yukon First Nations and Yukoners alike.

With a diversity of programming planned and a commitment to supporting Yukon First Nations, this year of celebrations will be a true reflection of collaboration and relationship-building that we have nurtured over the past 50 years.

Gunałchîsh

Peter Johnston
Grand Chief

1171 Front Street
Whitehorse, YT
Phone: (867) 456-5322

CYFN 50th Anniversary Celebrations Overview

From February 11-18, 2023, the Council of Yukon First Nations will host a week-long celebration to commemorate Together Today for our Children Tomorrow with events and activities for all ages.

Most planned activities will take place at Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and are offered free of charge, unless otherwise indicated. We hope you will join us as we celebrate the people, the stories, and the legacy of Yukon First Nations self-government!

February 11-18, 2023

Programming highlights for the week of festivities include:

Exhibits

Throughout the week, the community can stop by to explore exhibits from the CYFN’s extensive archives collections that will be located throughout the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre.

Speaker Series

A daily Speaker Series will be offered featuring a panel of Yukon First Nations leaders, trailblazers and emerging leaders speaking on various topics related to Together Today for our Children Tomorrow.

Celebrations

A series of celebrations are planned throughout the week, including:

Gala night performance
Potlatch night
Community feast and dance

Cultural Performances and Activities

Activities and performances that celebrate Yukon First Nations culture will be offered each day of celebration week, including:

Performing artists
Cultural performances
Language learning
Film screenings

Cultural Recreation and Family Fun

A two-day hand games tournament will kick off the anniversary week celebrations, with opportunities for youth to learn and participate. A family fun day at the Canada Games Centre (CGC) will be hosted on February 18th allowing free access to the facility to participate in the events and activities.

Hand games tournament at KDCC
Family fun day at the CGC

Workshops

Guests can participate in a variety of programming and activities offered daily throughout celebration week, including:

Community Art Project led by a Yukon First Nations artist
Workshops led by Yukon First Nations Artists and Knowledge-Keepers

Art Market and Trade Show

During the week, an art market to showcase items for sale created by Yukon First Nations artists. In addition, a trade show of Yukon First Nation organizations and businesses will be assembled to provide information about opportunities for Yukon First Nations to engage and participate.

Schedule of Events for Potlatch Week include: