Kluane First Nation facts for kids
The Kluane First Nation (KFN) is a First Nations group in Yukon, Canada. They are a self-governing community. Their main home is in Burwash Landing, Yukon. This village is located along the Alaska Highway right by Kluane Lake. Kluane Lake is the biggest lake in the Yukon! The people of the Kluane First Nation speak a language called Southern Tutchone. They call themselves Lù’àn Män Ku Dän or Lù’àn Mun Ku Dän, which means "Kluane Lake People."
Who are the Kluane First Nation?
The Kluane First Nation is one of many Indigenous groups in Canada. They have lived in the Yukon for thousands of years. Being a "First Nation" means they are one of the original peoples of this land. They have their own unique culture, history, and traditions.
Where do the Kluane First Nation Live?
The traditional land of the Kluane people is very large. It stretches from the St. Elias Mountains in the south. To the east, it reaches the end of Kluane Lake and the A'ay Chu (which used to be called Slims River). To the north, it goes almost to the Nisling River. And to the west, it reaches the border with Alaska. Part of their traditional land is also inside the famous Kluane National Park and Reserve.
This area is known for its amazing natural features. It has some of the highest mountains in Canada, like those in the St. Elias Mountains. There's also a big valley called the Shakwak Trench, where Kluane Lake sits. The weather here can be very extreme! Temperatures can go from super cold (-62°C) to quite hot (+32°C). It doesn't rain or snow much, but it can be very windy. A lot of the ground is also frozen all year round, which is called permafrost.
What is Self-Government?
The Kluane First Nation is a "Self-Governing First Nation." This means they have special agreements that give them the power to make their own decisions about their community and land. These agreements are protected by Canada's laws.
In October 2003, the Kluane First Nation signed important agreements. These were called a Final Land Claims Agreement and a Self-Government Agreement. These agreements were made between the Kluane First Nation, the Government of Canada, and the Government of Yukon. They help the Kluane people manage their own affairs and protect their traditional lands and way of life.
