kids encyclopedia robot

Judy Gingell facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Judy Gingell
Commissioner of Yukon
In office
June 23, 1995 – October 1, 2000
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien
Premier John Ostashek
Piers McDonald
Pat Duncan
Preceded by John Kenneth McKinnon
Succeeded by Jack Cable
Personal details
Born (1946-11-26) November 26, 1946 (age 78)
Moose Lake, Yukon

Judy Gingell (born November 26, 1946) is an important Indigenous Canadian politician. She served as the Commissioner of Yukon from 1995 to 2000. This role is like being the Queen's representative in the Yukon territory.

Who is Judy Gingell?

Judy Gingell was born in Moose Lake, Yukon, in 1946. She has spent her life working to support and advance the rights of Indigenous people in Canada. Her work has made a big difference for many communities.

Early Life and Important Work

From a young age, Judy Gingell showed strong leadership.

  • In 1969, she helped start the Yukon Native Brotherhood. She was one of its first leaders.
  • During the 1970s and 1980s, she was part of the Yukon Indian Women's Association. This group worked to improve the lives of Indigenous women.
  • She also helped create Northern Native Broadcasting in the Yukon. This organization helps share Indigenous stories and news.
  • In 1980, she became the president of the Yukon Indian Development Corporation.
  • From 1989 to 1995, she was the chair of the Council for Yukon Indians. This council works on land claims and self-governance for Indigenous groups.

Becoming Commissioner of Yukon

On June 23, 1995, Judy Gingell made history. She was chosen as the first Indigenous Commissioner of Yukon. This was a very important moment for Indigenous people across Canada. She served in this role until September 2000.

After her time as Commissioner, she ran in an election for the Yukon Legislative Assembly in 2002. She was a candidate for the Yukon Liberal Party in the McIntyre-Takhini area, but she was not elected.

Awards and Recognition

Judy Gingell has received special honors for her dedication and hard work.

  • In 2009, she was made a Member of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest honors. She received it for her efforts over 40 years to promote Indigenous rights and governance in the Yukon.
  • In 2019, she was also made a member of the Order of Yukon. This award recognizes people who have made outstanding contributions to the Yukon territory.

Images for kids

kids search engine
Judy Gingell Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.