Jonathon Solomon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jonathon Solomon
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| Born | March 10, 1932 |
| Died | July 13, 2006 (aged 74) |
| Nationality | American, native Gwich'in |
| Parent(s) | Hannah Paul Solomon |
| Awards | Goldman Environmental Prize (2002) |
Jonathon Solomon (born March 10, 1932 – died July 13, 2006) was an important leader from the Gwich'in people in Fort Yukon, Alaska, USA. He dedicated his life to protecting the environment and the traditional way of life for his community. He worked hard to make sure the land and animals, especially the caribou, were safe for future generations.
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Jonathon Solomon's Life and Work
Jonathon Solomon was a member of the Gwich'in, an Indigenous group in Alaska. He became the Traditional Chief of the Gwichyaa Zhee Gwich'in in 2002, a special role he held for the rest of his life. This position meant he was a key leader for his people.
Protecting the Porcupine Caribou
One of Jonathon Solomon's most important goals was to protect the Porcupine caribou herd. These caribou are very important to the Gwich'in culture and have been for over 20,000 years. Their survival is linked to the Gwich'in way of life.
Standing Up for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
In 1988, Jonathon Solomon helped start the Gwich'in Steering Committee. This group was formed to protect the caribou herd and their home, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. This area is a special place where the caribou have their babies.
He was part of the U.S. team that worked on the International Porcupine Caribou Agreement. This agreement helps Canada and the U.S. work together to protect the caribou herd.
Environmental Awards and Recognition
Jonathon Solomon's efforts to protect the environment were recognized worldwide. In 2002, he received the Goldman Environmental Prize. This award is like a Nobel Prize for environmental heroes. He shared the prize with Norma Kassi and Sarah James.
They received the award for fighting against plans to drill for oil and gas in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Such drilling would harm the caribou's life cycle and their ability to survive.
Fighting for the Yukon Flats
In 1970, Jonathon Solomon founded an organization called Gwichyaa Gwich'in Ginkhe'. This group was based in Fort Yukon and was also known as the "three G's." Its main purpose was to stop environmental damage in the Yukon Flats area.
Stopping the Rampart Dam Project
The organization specifically fought against a plan to build the Rampart Dam. This dam would have flooded the entire Yukon Flats, forcing the Gwich'in people to leave their homes. Thanks to their efforts, the project was stopped, and the Gwich'in people were able to stay on their land.
Jonathon Solomon's life showed how one person can make a huge difference in protecting both the environment and their community's heritage.
