Kwanlin Dün – Our Story in Our Words (notre histoire dans nos mots)

Kwanlin Dün’s personal history is celebrated through the seasons, from a “long-time ago spring” to the “late summer of today.” Through first-hand stories, photography, and true-life recollections, see how the Yukon has evolved and changed through the eyes of Kwanlin Dün First Nation Citizens as they work to define their vision for the future.

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“For First Nations people, living by the water is very spiritual because it gives us a lot.” – Klighee - Sait u - Emma Joanne Shorty, Elder 

When the gold rush masses descended onto their land, First Nations people worked alongside the prospectors. But for many, their way of life changed dramatically with the building of the Alaska Highway in the 1940s. The roads brought an end to the steamboat era and the wood camps along the Yukon River for which many were employed. 

Sweeny Scurvy, a Kwanlin Dün poet, describes the arrival of the highway workers in Disturbing the Peace, one of his many featured works. 

“Strange machines are tearing down our trees…”  – Sweeny Scurvy

Personal stories and photos from many Elders shine a light on the decades of segregation and discrimination. The battle to keep their land, their rights and traditional way of life alive was a long process, but progress began to be made in the 1970s with First Nations coming together to initiate change.  Read all about the formation of The Council of Yukon Indians, Yukon Native Brotherhood and the Yukon Indian’s Women Association, to name a few, who made their voices heard.

These are their stories, these are their pictures. A ten-year community effort, the publication of this book coincides with the 15th anniversary of First Nations land claims and self-government agreements that came into effect in 2005. 

“We were finally accepted as real, real owners of the land. You think back on that, that was like a turning page for us…” –  Shaakooni - Mike Smith, Chief of KDFN 2003-2011
 

In chapter five, Adäka (meaning ‘light dawning over the mountains’), follow the words of the Chief and Citizens of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation as they guide us on the final road that led to this breakthrough moment in Yukon history. 

“We are marking a new beginning for our people in economic prosperity, cultural strength and our rights under the law which will be accepted and respected by other governments” – Shaakooni - Chief Mike Smith

In recognition of the immense hard work and perseverance in creating this book, the Kwanlin Dün First Nation won the Roderick Haig-Brown Regional Prize, part of the British Columbia and Yukon 2021 Book Prizes. Upon reading, take time to reflect and understand all of the unique voices that make up this First Nation’s story. 

• What was the biggest lesson you learned? 
• What local story stayed with you? 
• What will you take away from this book to inspire others?