What’s On APTN This Fall?
When it launched in 1999, the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) was the first national Indigenous broadcaster in the world.
What’s On APTN This Fall? Read More »
First Nation
Taking Your Friends Down A Notch
Everyone needs a friend who can bring them down a notch or two when they get too far up on their high horses.
Taking Your Friends Down A Notch Read More »
The Dancer of Kotaneelee
After becoming aware of my interest in sasquatch, a friend shared his sasquatch encounter. The sighting occurred in early October…
The Dancer of Kotaneelee Read More »
Battle Lines In The Sand
When we were growing up, I would hear stories from the Elders about the tribal wars between Dene and Inuvialuit. One story I remember…
Battle Lines In The Sand Read More »
Making A Fashion Statement
On a narrow street in Milan, motor scooters are parked on the side of the road and people are rushing by. A woman is wearing a black dress…
Making A Fashion Statement Read More »
Yukon Soaps
It has been a big year for Joella Hogan. Hogan has owned The Yukon Soaps Company, in Mayo (the heart of the Yukon)…
Come To The Fire
In 2023, the Yukon Arts Centre (YAC) will invite visitors in by asking them to gather outside. That’s the idea behind a new firepit…
Never Show Up An Elder
There’s only one way in the North to deal with an arrogant prick (Lord knows we’ve had our share) and that’s a damned-good practical joke.
Never Show Up An Elder Read More »
Time Travelling in the Yukon
Living in the Yukon, it’s hard not to feel distinctly aware of time, of its passing and of our relationship to it.
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Arctic Highways Breaks Down Borders
Tomas Colbengston, who takes a lot of inspiration from the Nordic Scandinavian landscape prefers to show his work outdoors.
Arctic Highways Breaks Down Borders Read More »
Voices Across The Water
Voices Across the Water follows two master boat builders as they practice their art and find a way back to balance and healing.
Voices Across The Water Read More »
For our children tomorrow
Closeup of Velma Olson’s beadwork on Sidney Anderson’s 2015 graduation dress [one_half] To my mind, Honouring Our Future: Yukon First Nations Graduation Regalia is among
For our children tomorrow Read More »
Robyn McLeod: Culture meets couture
Robyn McLeod’s dresses from her fashion collection, Dene Futurisms: Series about the three Chu Niikwän residency artists and their work.
Robyn McLeod: Culture meets couture Read More »
Deep roots
Her name is Wolf Mother, Ghoóch Tlâ in Tlingit, and Colleen James in English. She grew up in Cowley, about halfway between Whitehorse and Carcross. Her mother was Tlingit and her father was English.
A true telling, unchanged and sacred
I was fortunate enough to sit with Joe Jack, the grandson on Copper Chief, son of Billie Jack and Agnes Boss. Through stories, Jack traces
A true telling, unchanged and sacred Read More »
Citywide celebrations
National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21, is right around the corner. There’s so much to celebrate during this nationwide statutory holiday. The Kwanlin Dün Cultural
Citywide celebrations Read More »
Coming into the light
The Adäka Cultural Festival is quickly growing into one of Canada’s premiere Indigenous arts and culture festivals
Coming into the light Read More »
Let’s Learn Gwich’in: My Things
Dinjii Zhùh/ Oonjit Kyuu – Gwich’in /English Words By Chih Ahaa Shiaxe – My axe Shiteapot – My teapot Shitent – My tent Shistove –
Let’s Learn Gwich’in: My Things Read More »
Dance dance revolution
Get ready to cut a rug in Haines Junction You don’t have to be part of a dance group to be a dancer. According to
Dance dance revolution Read More »
Shandaa (In my Lifetime) – Chih Ahaa
William Ch’itzee (Fort McPherson), ganaldaii (I remembered) Belle Herbert (Chalkyitsik), ganalydaii. Rev. James and Sarah Simon (Fort McPherson), ganaldaii. Special Constable Thomas Njootli (Aklavik), ganaldaii.
Shandaa (In my Lifetime) – Chih Ahaa Read More »
Oral history in a modern context
Reconciliation. We have all heard the term used in modern-day politics. You may have heard about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, or even the 94
Oral history in a modern context Read More »
A junction of mountain film, culture and science in Kluane country
The Haines Junction Mountain Festival is in its third year and is a celebration of the United Nations (UN) International Mountain Day (IMD).
A junction of mountain film, culture and science in Kluane country Read More »
In ‘the Zone’ – Taking each day as it comes …
I turned 70 this past summer. I’ve been pondering, How did I get there so soon? So what’s your stereotype of a 70-year-old “lady”? Grey
In ‘the Zone’ – Taking each day as it comes … Read More »
The Yukon’s exclusive arts and crafts
Only two weeks to go until the 2018 Cranberry Fair, when, again, over 40 artists will gather to present the Yukon’s exceptional artistic craftsmanship.
The Yukon’s exclusive arts and crafts Read More »
The Junction and JAR (Junction Artist in Residence)
Landing in Whitehorse for the first time, Henry Navarro Delgado arrived in the Yukon knowing nothing about the place. Delgado wanted to remain as open-minded as possible when he settled into the coveted Junction Artist in Residence (JAR) Program in Haines Junction.
The Junction and JAR (Junction Artist in Residence) Read More »
The White River Ash, the mega eruption next door – Part 4
Past volcanic eruptions in Alaska have resulted in massive displacement of peoples and widespread environmental damage in the Yukon.
The White River Ash, the mega eruption next door – Part 4 Read More »
Celebrating 30 years of northern art and artists
First Nations artists and performers, from across the North, will gather with artists from around the world for the Great Northern Arts Festival on July 13–22.
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Celebrating with Land and Light
The Land and Light Gallery, part of MacBride’s new expansion, will open July 5 and will feature 11 of Ted Harrison’s paintings.
Celebrating with Land and Light Read More »
Atlin Lit Up! lights up the Yukon writing scene
The Atlin writers’ festival not only offers music but also offers literature, readings and workshops.
Atlin Lit Up! lights up the Yukon writing scene Read More »
Indian Horse
Indian Horse will be screened at the Atlin BC Globe Theatre on Thursday, July 5, 2018 at 7 PM as part of the Atlin Arts & Music Festival.
Cranberry Fair … where ‘Quality, Originality, Creativity and Diversity’ meet
Each year, in Whitehorse, the Northern Fibres Guild invites the world to one of the Yukon‘s most exclusive sales events—Cranberry Fair.
Cranberry Fair … where ‘Quality, Originality, Creativity and Diversity’ meet Read More »
Sun, water and wind
Researchers explore how renewable energy can fuel the North in the future.
Sun, water and wind Read More »
A record-breaking class at the forty-third annual First Nations graduation
On May 25, students from all over the Yukon, British Columbia, Alberta, and the Northwest Territories gathered in Whitehorse at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, in celebration of the forty-third annual First Nations graduation.
A record-breaking class at the forty-third annual First Nations graduation Read More »
‘Beat the Heat’ with the XY Charlie Crew
Chad Thomas, manager of the XY Charlie Crew, is leading the development of top-level wildland fire professionals in the Yukon, for First Nations.
‘Beat the Heat’ with the XY Charlie Crew Read More »
The Adäka Cultural Festival … celebrating our diverse First Nations arts and culture
The 2020 Adäka Cultural Festival at its idyllic location, the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre located on Whitehorse’s beautiful waterfront.
The Adäka Cultural Festival … celebrating our diverse First Nations arts and culture Read More »
First hunting trip, with the best guides
I grew up in the traditional way in and around Pelly Crossing, learning to hunt, fish and trap from my relatives and Elders. It wasn’t until I was 16 years old, though, in 1963, that I had my first real long hunting trip.
First hunting trip, with the best guides Read More »
National Aboriginal Day
It’s the longest day of the year, and what better way to appreciate this new Canadian statutory holiday than to visit local First Nations and to be part of this national celebration and enjoy live music, artist demonstrations, traditional food, ceremonies and more.
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Didee & Didoo: They Made Everything
Our ancestors made everything…
Didee & Didoo: They Made Everything Read More »
Picking our battles
As a nurse, I have a role in challenging systemic and individual racism. I challenge you to do the same.
Picking our battles Read More »
2018 CBC Indigenous Music Awards
On May 18, the Indigenous Music Awards will return to Winnipeg with awards in 19 categories that honour music that has been created by First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples of Turtle Island.
2018 CBC Indigenous Music Awards Read More »
Didee & Didoo: Sacred Caribou Calving Grounds
At the caribou calving grounds There’s only wildlife sounds. The water is clear an’ clean And the land is so pristine. It’s a place for
Didee & Didoo: Sacred Caribou Calving Grounds Read More »
Didee & Didoo: Let’s Learn Gwich’in, Colours – Vah Ch’itr’idi’ee – Chih Ahaa
CARTOON: Allan Benjamin Colours – Vah Ch’itr’idi’ee – Chih Ahaa Jidii Zraii – Black Jidii Dagaii – White Jidii Ditsik – Red Jidii Vee –
Didee & Didoo: Let’s Learn Gwich’in, Colours – Vah Ch’itr’idi’ee – Chih Ahaa Read More »
Get a feature shot at first light
Jay Gough of Nikon Canada, along with Trisha Gillings of Panasonic Canada (not pictured), will be on site all day with trade show style booths
Get a feature shot at first light Read More »
Yukon Pomp
There’s a furry addition to Team Yukon’s uniforms as they march into the opening ceremony of the Arctic Winter Games in the Northwest Territories on March 18. Athletes will sport fur pom-poms made from wolf pelts harvested in the Haines Junction area and sewn onto their hats by members of the community.
Teaching language through song from Québec to the Yukon
Multilingual Quebec musicians Andrée Levesque-Sioui and Kyra Shaughnessy are in the Yukon this month for a series of workshops with high-school students. The workshops are aimed at promoting bilingualism in the Yukon and are conducted in French and the Huron-Wendat First Nation language.
Teaching language through song from Québec to the Yukon Read More »
Celebrating First Nations’ achievements and culture
The Skookum Jim Folklore Show has become an annual tradition that celebrates First Nation traditions, community and culture.
Celebrating First Nations’ achievements and culture Read More »
We are what we used to eat
February 19 to 22 will see the latest edition of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Heritage Department’s bi-annual Myth and Medium week.
We are what we used to eat Read More »
Helping the youth to heal
Motivational speaker Mike Scott of the Sturgeon Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan has a created the “Sober is Sexi” social media campaign and will present
Helping the youth to heal Read More »
Let there be light
The 2018 Available Light Film Festival (ALFF) features a strong Indigenous presence in this year’s films – and in the audience, with more than 40 guests attending from Outside.
Let there be light Read More »
Didee & Didoo: Community Adoptions
Aklavik adopted Albert Frost Inuvik adopted Winston Moses Ross River adopted Henry Nukon Fort Yukon adopted Diane Jonas Chalkyitsik adopted Simon Francis Dawson adopted Sharon
Didee & Didoo: Community Adoptions Read More »
‘Canadian Ice Man’ tells his story
Editor’s Note: This is part two of two highlighting Kwädąy Dän Ts’ìnchį: Teachings from Long Ago Person Found. It was introduced during the Haines Junction
‘Canadian Ice Man’ tells his story Read More »
‘Canadian Ice Man’ tells his story
Eighteen years ago three sheep hunters discovered the oldest natural mummified body unearthed to date in North America. he story of this mysterious “Canadian ice man” comes full-circle this year with a new book, Kwädąy Dän Ts’ìnchį: Teachings from Long Ago Person Found.
‘Canadian Ice Man’ tells his story Read More »
Past and present fuse on new record
Dakhká Khwáan Dancers new album is called Deconstruct/Reconstruct, and it is a double CD.
Past and present fuse on new record Read More »
Hunting in the Yukon – Part 1
An excerpt of Manfred Hoefs’ recently released book Yukon’s Hunting History. Yukon’s history, time scale & events are unique.
Hunting in the Yukon – Part 1 Read More »
From the North to the South
We deserve a pat on the back. That’s part of the point of From the North says Kim Winnicky, executive producer of the arts performance
From the North to the South Read More »
Weaving Willow, Weaving Voices
On a hot day in Dawson City this August, I had the opportunity to speak with the four artists of Weaving Voices: Bo Yeung, Chris
Weaving Willow, Weaving Voices Read More »
Northern Food Fusion: Arctic Char Harvest
I can still smell the smoked fish on my jean jacket and I smile. It means I have been home to the Northwest Territories. At
Northern Food Fusion: Arctic Char Harvest Read More »
In The People’s Voice
Ross River musician Dennis Shorty grew up in a musical family that spoke Kaska and performed at social events. Now he is sharing his love
In The People’s Voice Read More »
TIAY Picks Dawson to Showcase Sustainable Tourism
Every few years the Tourism Industry Association of the Yukon brings either its spring or fall conference to Dawson City. TIA Yukon Executive Director Blake
TIAY Picks Dawson to Showcase Sustainable Tourism Read More »
Real Stories from Real People
Three years of collaborating, interviewing and gathering has culminated in one powerful play that shares both beautiful, heartfelt reflections and the harsh realities of northern
Real Stories from Real People Read More »
Hiking Miles Canyon to Canyon City: A Landscape with a Past
The Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge, is a great launch point for half-day hikes like Miles Canyon, Chadburn Lake and Canyon City.
Hiking Miles Canyon to Canyon City: A Landscape with a Past Read More »
Stream of Consciousness
Visit the Academic and Skills Development office in the A-wing of Yukon College, and you’ll be greeted with words of empowerment on the backs of
Stream of Consciousness Read More »
Celebrate National Tlingit Day with a Fun Packed Weekend in Teslin
The biannual Haa Ḵusteeyí Celebration and community gathering in Teslin this month presents a unique opportunity for Yukoners of all backgrounds to connect with the
Celebrate National Tlingit Day with a Fun Packed Weekend in Teslin Read More »
Celebrating Film During the Atlin Arts and Music Festival
New projector at the Globe Theatre 2017 when the Available Light Film Festival (ALFF) takes its films to the Atlin Arts and Music Festival.
Celebrating Film During the Atlin Arts and Music Festival Read More »
Leonard Linklater: Voicing the North
When Leonard Linklater was growing up in Inuvik, NWT, there was one radio station on the dial. The CBC. Through the airwaves, Indigenous voices carried
Leonard Linklater: Voicing the North Read More »
Adäka Cultural Festival: Celebrate First Nations Culture
The Adäka Cultural Festival features Indigenous artists working in various media from all 14 Yukon First Nations.
Adäka Cultural Festival: Celebrate First Nations Culture Read More »
Stories Come to Life
Falen Johnson doesn’t hold back when it comes to Gwaandak Theatre. “I love Gwaandak,” the Six Nations writer says straight out. “It’s a place where
Stories Come to Life Read More »
A book Canadians “must read”
An attack leaves two girls hospitalized. Two families looking for answers. In the Break Metis writer, Katherena Vermette tells the stories.
A book Canadians “must read” Read More »
Three Days of Dance
World travel has its place, but Sharon Shorty says a lot of Yukoners need to get out and take a trip into their own territory.
Three Days of Dance Read More »
Celebrating the Power of Art
A mural festival in the Yukon will draw artists, youth, and the general public together to decorate some buildings in Whitehorse with a colourful palette.
Celebrating the Power of Art Read More »
Playing in the Dark
“Think of magic as a tree. The root of supernatural ability is simply the realization that all time exists simultaneously. Humans experience time as a
Playing in the Dark Read More »
Women in Whitehorse – Part 2
From the river to the mountains, Whitehorse is a picturesque place. However, it’s the people that make Whitehorse truly breathtaking . Beauty is found in
Women in Whitehorse – Part 2 Read More »
Telling the untold stories of the Yukon
The first days in the creation of the play Map of the Land, Map of the Stars took place in the summer of 2015 along
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Take the Gwich’in Language Challenge
Take the Gwich’in language challenge. It’s a challenge from Norman Snowshoe, the former Gwich’in Tribal Council vice president. He said, “If you learn one Gwich’in
Take the Gwich’in Language Challenge Read More »
Thank You, Grandma
Trekking around the vast wilderness behind my grandparents home, I remember my grandma taking me through the wilderness teaching me about traditional medicines. I loved
Thank You, Grandma Read More »
Artistic Announcements in Beads and Bells
Moses found nine other women to take on creating a dog blanket. The sewing group started up again in September, and they cut the materials
Artistic Announcements in Beads and Bells Read More »
Looking Back on 40 Years of Team Spirit
When Joe Jack was around 24 years old he and a group of friends thought it would be a good idea to start a First Nations hockey team…
Looking Back on 40 Years of Team Spirit Read More »
Telling Stories Through Dance
“What would I say my style is? It depends on what project I’m working on… I liked to say ‘contemporary aboriginal dancer’ for a long
Telling Stories Through Dance Read More »
Teslin: Sam Johnston Storytelling Festival
Sam Johnston Storytelling Festival, How Raven Stole the Sun, Salmon Boy, How Summer Came to the Yukon, and Crow and Tlingit Princess.
Teslin: Sam Johnston Storytelling Festival Read More »
Butterflies, Ravens and Tlingit Princesses – Oh My!
The event’s honoured figure, Sam Johnston, is a venerated elder within the Teslin Community. He has been a politician, athlete and former chief of the
Butterflies, Ravens and Tlingit Princesses – Oh My! Read More »
High on Life
Between the years of 1991 and 2011 my husband and I used to pack up our son and drive to a mountain summit a few
Birdie – Tracey Lindberg
“Maybe she didn’t cry because tears were a currency in her life for so long that holding them back meant she was richer.” Birdie is
Birdie – Tracey Lindberg Read More »
Hunting with Gary Sam
I remember well while hunting with Gary Sam he suddenly jumped off his horse and ran into the bush. “I got it,. We ate well that night!
Hunting with Gary Sam Read More »
Triple Threat
The Pivot Theatre Festival – Nakai Theatre’s annual performance showcase – begins a seven-night run this weekend in multiple Whitehorse venues. In addition to smaller-scale
Calling Aboriginal Artists!
Yukon First Nation Culture and Tourism Association is looking for artists, musicians & performers for the 7th annual Adäka Cultural Festival
Calling Aboriginal Artists! Read More »
Slip-Sliding Away
Benkert is quick to underline this aspect of the project. “The Yukon Geological Survey has been really critical (to the project) all the way through,”
Predator and Prey 14,000 Years Ago
Zhoh, the Clan of the Wolf: Fiction of the first humans to inhabit The Yukon. I knew Bob Hayes novel would be physically accurate.
Predator and Prey 14,000 Years Ago Read More »
The Klondike Continues to Prepare for World Heritage Status
The nomination package has been prepared under the watchful eye of a local advisory committee, including representation from Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, the City of Dawson, the
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Karen Nicloux: Stitching a Healthy Future
To talk to her, you wouldn’t think the quiet needleworker Karen Nicloux was once in the upper echelons of our local drug circuit. She was
Karen Nicloux: Stitching a Healthy Future Read More »
Mining All the Options
Saturday, Nov. 19 is the Yukon Chamber of Mines’ Family Day and on Sunday the Forum Trade Show showcases the industry. Monday the Core Shack
Mining All the Options Read More »
Calls to Action
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action task all sectors of Canadian society to make changes that will affect “the way things are
Hepburn Tramway Historic Walk
“There is nothing like walking to get the feel of a country. A fine landscape is like a piece of music; it must be taken
Hepburn Tramway Historic Walk Read More »
Starting Conversations through Art with A Dawson City Scrapbook
When you think of comics, you may think of superheroes or lovable scruffy dogs. But Rebecca Roher says comics are not only pulpy and light.
Starting Conversations through Art with A Dawson City Scrapbook Read More »
“It Will Give Them Good Dreams”
The big fat airbus hit the tarmac in Whitehorse on Tuesday evening and departed Wednesday afternoon — William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of
“It Will Give Them Good Dreams” Read More »
Building Tourism From the Ground Up
The Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, a cultural hub of our capital city, will see national delegates focused on aboriginal economic development arrive on Monday, October
Building Tourism From the Ground Up Read More »
Recognizing Amazing Art
Our community will soon welcome an expected 100+ Indigenous curators, artists, and academics participating in the first northern gathering of the Aboriginal Curatorial Collective. The
Recognizing Amazing Art Read More »
Exploring Identity
Falen Johnson doesn’t know where the expression “salt baby” came from, but it’s a moniker the First Nations actor-turned-playwright acquired at birth. “I don’t remember
Exploring Identity Read More »
A Strong Indigenous Female Presence at Arts Underground
Two new exhibitions curated by Jennifer Bowen Allen, of the Dene Nation, opened Sept. 2 at Arts Underground. In the Focus Gallery, a group show
A Strong Indigenous Female Presence at Arts Underground Read More »
A Feast For All
Harvest time. At the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in (TH) Teaching and Working Farm, there will be a feast to celebrate a summer’s worth of hard work.
Amazonian Mythology and Western Hallucinations
Somewhere between Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and the writings of Colombian philosopher Santiago Castro-Gómez lies Ciro Guerra’s film Embrace of the Serpent. Shot in
Amazonian Mythology and Western Hallucinations Read More »
Questioning the World
Harlan Pruden and Marney Paradis are PhD program at UBC. Pruden gave a talk to a group of peers – including Marney – after class
Questioning the World Read More »
Seeds of Change Lead to Reconciliation
Seeds of Change invites locals and visitors to consider the implications of the concept of reconciliation. It’s the summer exhibit in the Gathering Room in
Seeds of Change Lead to Reconciliation Read More »
Off to the Races with Allan Benjamin
97 Yukoners aged 55 to 91 participated in the 2016 Canada 55+ Games in Brampton, Ontario from Aug.16 to 19.
Off to the Races with Allan Benjamin Read More »
Learning her Mom’s Language
“Dänch’á Éh ma,” I begin the conversation with my mother in a standard Southern Tutchone greeting, uncertain and nervous about my speaking abilities. “Éyigē shrō
Learning her Mom’s Language Read More »
Hands-On Haute Couture in the Junction
From beading to working with hide and hair, “Textile and fashion endeavours are followed by a huge number of locals,” says Heiko Hähnsen. He’s the
Hands-On Haute Couture in the Junction Read More »
A portal to the world
Yukon artist Lawrie Crawford imagined a gallery, an airy space with high ceilings and big beautiful windows. She could picture Suzanne Paleczny’s sculpture of Icarus
A portal to the world Read More »
The Tagish Kwan Photo Parlour
Another new initiative has sprung up on the Carcross Commons. Near the totem pole stands an off-white canvas wall tent. Inside, it’s set up as
The Tagish Kwan Photo Parlour Read More »
Didee & Didoo: INDIAN TIME
WE DON’T KEEP TRACK OF TIME AN’ WE DON’T THINK IT’S A CRIME. OUR ALARM GOES ON AT EIGHT BUT WE LIKE TO BE LATE.
Didee & Didoo: INDIAN TIME Read More »
A Celebration of Tradition and Culture
From July 28 to 31 the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation will welcome everyone to their traditional territory. The First Nation is hosting the 13th biennial
A Celebration of Tradition and Culture Read More »
Chronicling the Peace
From her cabin on her parents’ farm near Fort St. John, B.C., Jody Peck can see the broad, meandering Peace River, not far from where
Chronicling the Peace Read More »
A Family Tradition
When the hooligan are running, the rivers and harbour In Haines, Alaska host a fiesta of wildlife that congregate to feed on this little fish
A Family Tradition Read More »
A Canada Day Celebration Worth Driving To
Mayo Arts Festival offers a unique way to celebrate Canada’s birthday with artists, workshops and musicians from the Stewart River Valley
A Canada Day Celebration Worth Driving To Read More »
Tlingit Treasure
On Saturday May 14th, under sunny skies, hundreds of spectators celebrated the Grand Opening of the Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage Centre and Bald Eagle Preserve
Deep Ecology within Architecture and Design
The Living Building Challenge is an international sustainable building certificate program to foster the conscious development and design of eco-friendly architecture. It was launched
Deep Ecology within Architecture and Design Read More »
A welcoming sewing circle
Have you got a beading project you’ve been trying to finish? Do you want to learn more about First Nations traditional sewing? Florence Moses hosts
A welcoming sewing circle Read More »
Myth and Medium Focuses on Stories and Performance
This week shaped up to be a culturally ambitious one in Dawson City. The centerpiece of the week has been the Myth and Medium conference
Myth and Medium Focuses on Stories and Performance Read More »
Hone Your Craft
This year marks the 14th anniversary of the Available Light Film Festival. Each year, the festival seems to grow and attract greater talent from a
Hostel Hostility, Part 2
Before coming to Nicaragua’s beach mecca of San Juan del Sur, I had undergone a hostel scare in Granada – a polite-seeming colonial city with
Hostel Hostility, Part 2 Read More »
A farewell from the 2015 Rendezvous Queen
As the year 2015 is coming to an end, so does my reign as the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Queen 2015. This article will be my
A farewell from the 2015 Rendezvous Queen Read More »
Didee & Didoo: THOSE MY AUNTIE
I CALL THOSE MY AUNTIE HE AN’ HE CALL THOSE UNCLE SHE. THOSE AUNTIE HE’S NOT THAT NEW AND SNUFF HE ALWAYS CHEW. I THINK
Didee & Didoo: THOSE MY AUNTIE Read More »
Brightening Up Even the Darkest Nights
I’m happy to record that, except for the arrival of the Sears Wish Book at North 60 Petro Express, everything else related to Christmas here
Brightening Up Even the Darkest Nights Read More »
A natural way to look good (and feel good)
Standing in the hallway of the Horwood’s Mall, looking into Climate Clothing, you don’t immediately see the First Nation influence in the neat rows of
A natural way to look good (and feel good) Read More »
Global response to climate change
The systems of the Earth are inextricably interwoven – be they environmental, social, or economic. Naomi Klein, bestselling author of This Changes Everything, The Shock
Global response to climate change Read More »
Harvesting Porcupine Caribou Near Old Crow
In the past two years the herd of Porcupine Caribou in Old Crow herd has gradually changed its natural migration route.
Harvesting Porcupine Caribou Near Old Crow Read More »
Didee & Didoo: DIDOO AN’ POOR DIDEE
THEIR BACKS ARE BENT AN’ THEY STAY IN A TENT. THEY DON’T READ OR WRITE AN’ THEY USE CANDLE AT NIGHT. DIDOO WEAR LONG SKIRT
Didee & Didoo: DIDOO AN’ POOR DIDEE Read More »
Telling stories
Sharon Shorty and I first met back in 2005 when I worked at the Yukon College Library with her awesome husband, Derek Yap. Sharon was
Water under Moss
My favourite childhood memories are when Mom would take us to Fish Lake, just a few miles out of Whitehorse. We spent our summers there
Sharing the Past
Out on the old Alaska Highway, halfway to Haines Junction and only a few kilometres from Champagne, an observant traveller may spot Kwaday Dan Kenji,
Drumming Festival will ‘wake up the land’
“You feel it to your core; it is a heartbeat; so uplifting; it just goes right through me.” Steve Smith, the chief of the Champagne
Drumming Festival will ‘wake up the land’ Read More »
First Nations share through fashion
Producer of Adäka Fashion Show’s goal is to see the Yukon’s traditional fashions, dance regalia, & bush garments fully represented.
First Nations share through fashion Read More »
Ancestral Ways
Juanita has captured Best In Class honours at Santa Fe. She made her first visit to the Yukon, as part of the annual Adäka Cultural Festival
Dawson’s Community Dance
Tiss Clark, a local artist and music teacher, is the organizer of the Community Jigging Square Dance Project in Dawson City. She decided to start
Dawson’s Community Dance Read More »
World Heritage Planning Gets a Big Boost
The Yukon Government (YG) finally decided to sign on in a substantive way to the push for UNESCO World Heritage Status for the site designated
World Heritage Planning Gets a Big Boost Read More »
Connecting to the past, to guide the future
On March 8, 2015, a team of 18 Northern Tutchone elders and heritage staff from the Nacho Nyak Dun, Selkirk, and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nations
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Diner Lights
Sid van der Meer recently travelled from the gold rush fields of Arizona back to Canada’s most westerly community — Beaver Creek, Yukon. Sid has
Caring Souls
Krista Reid has worked since last June to ensure the memorial exhibition known as Walking With Our Sisters would be “a space to create a
Formerly Tools, Now Artifacts on Display
The Kwanlin Dün First Nation recorded elders’ stories in 1993. This turned into about seven boxes of transcripts, which sat in an office. Elders gathered
Formerly Tools, Now Artifacts on Display Read More »
Leela Gilday: Heart of the People
Leela Gilday recognizes how First Nations performers can inspire aboriginal youngsters, who seldom see “indigenous heroes”
Leela Gilday: Heart of the People Read More »
Gunalchéesh for your Love and Support
Marilyn Jensen was inspired to start a dance group after finishing her master’s degree at the University of Victoria. She studied Indigenous governance, and said
Gunalchéesh for your Love and Support Read More »
Up Ghost River Without a Paddle
When Edmund Metatawabin’s (Ed) residential school memoir, Up Ghost River, jumped off the new-books shelf of the Yukon Public Library and landed in my book
Up Ghost River Without a Paddle Read More »
Remembering Alex Van Bibber
Some people should live forever; I felt immense loss as I heard about Alex Van Bibber’s passing on November 26, 2014, at the age of
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Fish on Porcupine River
Sitting at a fish hole in the dark on the Porcupine River, in the Yukon at Old Crow in the fall, is not unusual. Excitement
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Running’s His Medicine
Caribou Legs has a home now, in Whitehorse. He’s lived here for about three months. He runs everyday, and he works with youth. He’s currently
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Mountain elephants and buffalo eyes
It was the Christmas season in 2005 in Whitehorse and my two great-grandsons, Dakota and his younger brother Garrison, were visiting us during their Vancouver
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“Thinking About the Tomorrow”
It started with a death in the community, a suicide last November. Young people close to the deceased asked each other why it came to
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A Successful Spring
As an Elder, I learned from my past Elders; as a Gwitchin, I live along with the season. Porcupine Caribou is our main source of
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Feels Like a Celebration
Journey with Our Hearts and Hands at Adäka Cultural Festival is 13 master carvers from New Zealand, BC, Alaska, the NWT & The Yukon.
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Growing Up Gwich’in
Editor’s Note: When Jason Westover visited Elizabeth Kaye recently, he suggested he would love to know more about her life besides her passion for moccasin-making.
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One Foot in a Moccasin, and One in a Sneaker
Marissa Mills, Kluane First Nation, example of what First Nations youth can achieve if they stay true to who they are as Indigenous people.
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A Testament to the Disappearances of Aboriginal Women
International Women’s Day is Saturday, March 8, it’s a day to pause and consider women’s health, dreams, and safety — worldwide, and in Canada. It’s
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Northern Pride
Art has the power to heal — and the artwork that comes out of the healing process can be amazing. Not always, sure, there are
Myth and Medium are Coming Again
The bi-annual Myth and Medium symposium runs from February 24 to 28 this year, the week after the territorial Heritage Day holiday. Heritage Day originally
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Celebrating Local Books
Writing tends to be a pretty solitary activity, but with their books completed and published, nine Yukon authors are ready to celebrate. Mac’s Fireweed Books
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What is the Tr’ondëk-Klondike Project?
In two previous columns I have given some background behind Dawson City’s interest in UNESCO’s World Heritage Status designation. The Klondike region was placed on
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Exploring Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Culture
The striking Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre was controversial when it was first being built in Dawson City — it’s not exactly a gold rush themed
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Part of the Land, Part of the Water
During early land claim negotiations, respected Teslin elder Virginia Smarch once said of her Tlingit community, “that is who we are: part of the land,
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Artrepreneur: Sundog Carvers Sink Teeth into Snow
Young artists from the Sundog carving program have turned from wood to snow. Until Feb. 23, you can see them carving six eight-foot square blocks
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Keeping the Stories Alive
Tammy Lee Josie first performed her family’s Vuntut Gwitchin stories at the Yukon International Storytelling Festival
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Artrepreneur: Cutouts and Curious George
Whimsy, angst and wit play in Joseph Tisiga’s drawings for the show Indigenous Incisions — or an Indigenous Ambivalence of the Abandoned Modern Man —
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The art of guilt
Prime Minister Stephen Harper stood in the House of Commons on June 11, 2008 and apologized. His address was in regards to Indian Residential Schools
Dolores Anderson
Dolores Anderson (nee Scheffen) is among the Yukon artists involved with Sewing Our Traditions: Dolls of Canada’s North the exhibition that is heading to Northern
New Film Gives a Child’s Eye Perspective on Residential Schools
Generations of First Nations Peoples across Canada are still trying to come to terms with experiences they and their families had in residential schools. A
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Discovering a Rich Cultural Heritage
Colleen Potter has an infectious smile that can put even the most-guarded person at ease. It’s a smile that doesn’t fade when she begins to
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Keeping His Culture Strong
Daniel Tlen sang our national anthem at the opening ceremonies of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. The event was viewed by one of the
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Finding a Gem
It can take approximately six days to hand-make a traditional pair of beaded moosehide moccasins. That’s why they cost about $250.But when you splurge on
Our Olympic contribution
The Yukon’s cultural contribution to the Vancouver Winter Olympics is all coming together. On Tuesday, Feb. 16, at the Yukon Arts Centre, audiences will see
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The Trickster as Bingo Master
Can one Holy Grail of a Bingo Game in Toronto be the answer to the dreams of seven women living on a reserve? Tomson Highway’s
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Aboriginal plays featured in Gwaandak’s Summer Reading Series
Gwaandak Theatre is putting on a reading series this summer featuring three plays written by First Nations playwrights, borrowing the skills of some local First
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From the Arts: Beautiful New Additions to Your Gallery
In the lobby of the Yukon Government Administration Building, just behind the library, you can see this year’s eight new additions to the Yukon Permanent
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Blackstone Buzz and Fish Magnets
While APTN is ushering in the New Year with a number of great new shows, perhaps the biggest buzz will come from the premiere of
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Speaking Frankly about Choices
Jessica Yee doesn’t mince her words. “As young people, our rights to our own bodies and spaces are fundamental to our own existence. They are
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Seeing With Both Eyes
My first introduction to the CHAOS program involved driving up Grey Mountain to meet a group of grade 9 students and educators as they completed
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If you can’t stand the heat …
In like a lion, March marks the launch of exciting premieres on APTN, featuring competition that is sure to be fierce. Cooking With the Wolfman
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Aboriginal Day Live
Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) is set to stage its annual celebration of National Aboriginal Day in Canada. This year’s fifth anniversary event will be
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Remembering Tent City
As we get closer to the time when Dawson sees an influx of summer workers, I thought I would take this week to reflect on
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Finding Wonder in Wood
The subtle aromas of cedar, basswood and paint scent the air in the Arts Underground gallery as you view the representations of frog, raven, eagle,
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Wisecracks and Popcorn
APTN broadcasts a wide variety of Hollywood films, with features four nights per week and additional matinees on weekends. A lot of viewers wonder how
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Dawson’s Got Culture
Things generally slow down at the Dänojà Zho (Hän for Long Ago House) Cultural Centre once the summer season is over and the tourists are
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A Tale in Two Tellings
Ten years after Louis Riel was convicted of high treason and hanged, a young Cree warrior shot a cow near Duck Lake, Saskatchewan, where the
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Michael Mason’s Single Line
It’s a slow Sunday afternoon and Michael Mason is a little discouraged at the low turnout for his one-man art show at the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in
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Promoting Canada’s National Sport
Terry Mosdale wants to see the sport of lacrosse take root and grow in the Yukon. The learning facilitator and officiating clinician with the Canadian
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A Little Off the Top: Stereotypes and Beyond
On June 11, 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Harper rose in the House of Commons to issue a formal apology for Canada’s century-long Indian residential school
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Southern Tutchone Lives In Song
The Southern Tutchone language CD, entitled Dakwanjenaats u al, has a purpose: The English translation is “Let’s Pick Up Our Language Again”.
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Old Colours Shepherded Into A New World
Born in a time of transition, Jack Fred Jackson was strongly influenced by time spent with his grandfather, both on the land and in the home.
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