CYFN Launches YFN Rock the Vote Initiatives to Empower, Inform and Increase Yukon First Nations Vote

By March 29, 2021March 31st, 2021News Release

WHITEHORSE – The Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) has launched a series of initiatives to support Yukon First Nations voters leading up to the 2021 territorial election.

CYFN has appointed an Election Coordinator Mathieya Alatini to facilitate information-sharing specific to the election with Yukon First Nations. CYFN has established a dedicated webpage, social media campaign featuring the hashtag #YFNRocktheVote and other tools to help create more awareness.

A Party Leaders All-Candidates Virtual Forum on Yukon First Nations Issues is planned for Thursday, April 1st from 6:00-9:00 PM. The virtual event will provide several ways for audiences to participate including a Yukon-wide Live Broadcast on CHON FM, a Facebook Live broadcast from CYFN’s Facebook page, and a Zoom virtual webinar. During the event, a series of questions will be asked of the candidates along with audience questions.

CYFN is also spearheading an awareness campaign geared toward empowering and informing Yukon First Nations voters with the ultimate goal of increasing Yukon First Nations voter turnout. Campaign materials will feature the hashtag #YFNRocktheVote and include traditional and non-traditional media in an effort to reach a broad cross section of Yukon First Nations citizens of voting age.

Quote:

Our Elders fought hard to be granted the right to vote. Yukon First Nations can ensure our voices are reflected in the next government and that the changes they want to see through the simple act of voting. – CYFN Grand Chief Peter Johnston

Quick Facts:

• The path to voting rights for First Nations peoples was long and difficult; it wasn’t until 1962 that First Nations were granted the right to vote without conditions in Canada.

• Yukon First Nations represent 23.3% of Yukon’s population; the Yukon First Nations vote carries considerable influence in determining the composition of the next government.

For further information contact:

Lael Lund

Communications Advisor
Council of Yukon First Nations
P: 867.393.9200 ext. 9223
C: 867.335.3227
cyfn.ca | communications@nullcyfn.net

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