Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“On June 21 we mark National Indigenous Peoples Day, an important opportunity to recognize, celebrate, and honour the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples across the Yukon and Canada.

“The Yukon is celebrating several significant anniversaries this year:

This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon, the Council of Yukon First Nations and Yukon First Nations governments.

Today, Premier Ranj Pillai and members of his Cabinet, Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Peter Johnston and Yukon First Nations Chiefs met at Ta’an Kwäch’än Council’s Fish Camp at Tàá’an Män (Lake Laberge) for the Yukon Forum.

Kwanlin Dün First Nation (KDFN) and the Government of Yukon are pleased to announce a finalized master plan for a new neighbourhood planned in Whitehorse’s Range Point.

The master plan will guide future development on two pieces of land, one by KDFN and one by the Government of Yukon. Planning for Range Point started in 2021, with the final design created using input from KDFN citizens, Range Point residents and the public.

Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:

"Today we recognize the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, a day of global significance that raises awareness about the urgent need to end conflict-related sexualized violence. This day is a reminder to honour the victims and survivors of sexualized violence worldwide and pay tribute to those who have dedicated their lives in the pursuit of eradicating these atrocious crimes.

On Saturday, June 17, the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre (YBIC) hosted a grand reopening celebration after undergoing several months of exhibit renewal work in their main exhibit hall.

This free event featured refreshments, live music, entertainment and a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors also learned more about the exhibits and their importance from Tourism and Culture Minister John Streicker, YBIC Manager Christie Grekul and Yukon Palaeontologist Dr. Grant Zazula.

Features of the newly renovated main exhibit hall include:

Premier Ranj Pillai presented four individuals and 10 teams of public servants with the Premier’s Award for Excellence and Innovation. The award, designed to honour the individual successes and collaborative efforts of employees, helps foster productivity, cooperation, understanding, and respect within the Government of Yukon public service.

This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Government of Canada.

The COVID-19 Recovery Research Program concluded this week with a public Research Results Summit held in Whitehorse. The COVID-19 Recovery Research Program was launched in November 2020 by the Government of Canada and the Yukon government, with the aim of gathering the information needed to support the Yukon’s strategic recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“Today, I express my deepest respect to the Sikh community as they observe the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. This significant occasion holds great importance for the Sikh community here in the Yukon and around the world.

“Guru Arjan Dev Ji was a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping Sikh philosophy and principles. His devotion, compassion and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity continue to inspire generations of Sikhs and people from diverse backgrounds.

The Government of Yukon is committed to ensuring that Yukon residents and businesses have the information they need to stay safe during natural disasters and times of crisis.

As the Donnie Creek wildfire complex in northeast British Columbia is burning within a few kilometres of the Alaska Highway, the Government of Yukon, through its Emergency Measures Organization (EMO), is holding daily meetings with emergency partners in British Columbia and within the Yukon to monitor the situation and prepare to respond if and when needed.

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, an opportunity to raise awareness, to improve the safety and well-being of seniors and Elders and to check in on our parents, grandparents, neighbours and friends.

“The theme this year is ‘Closing the Circle: Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Older Age Policy, Law and Evidence-based Responses’. The goal is to emphasize that we all have a vital role to play in protecting the rights of older persons.