Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation facts for kids
The Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN) is a First Nation in the northern Yukon in Canada. Their main community is Old Crow. The people originally spoke the Gwichʼin language.
Who are the Vuntut Gwich'in?
The name "Vuntut Gwich'in" means "people of the lakes." It refers to the Gwich'in people who traditionally lived near the lakes. Today, the Vuntut Gwich'in First Nation includes both the Vuntut Gwich'in and the Dagoo Gwich'in. The Dagoo Gwich'in traditionally lived further along the Porcupine River.
The larger Gwich'in nation lives across northwestern Canada and Alaska. Other Gwich'in communities can be found in places like Fort McPherson and Tsiigehtchic in the Northwest Territories. They also live in Fort Yukon and Arctic Village, Alaska in Alaska.
Self-Government Agreement
The Vuntut Gwich'in First Nation was one of the first four First Nations to sign a land claims agreement. This important agreement was signed in 1995. A land claims agreement helps define the rights and responsibilities of First Nations regarding their traditional lands. It also helps them manage their own affairs.
The current chief of the Vuntut Gwich'in First Nation is Dana Tizya-Tramm. The chief is the leader of the First Nation.
Vuntut Development Corporation: Business and Energy
The Vuntut Development Corporation is the business part of the Vuntut Gwich'in First Nation. It helps create jobs and income for the community.
One of its major investments is owning 49% of Air North. Air North is a Canadian airline based in Whitehorse. This airline provides regular flights for people and goods to Old Crow and other places in the Yukon. It also flies to Inuvik and several large Canadian cities.
The Vuntut Development Corporation also works with other First Nations. They partnered with Kluane First Nation to create Chieftain Energy Limited Partnership. This company is special because it is the first energy company mostly owned by First Nations. Its goal is to provide fuel, lubricants, and natural gas locally. It serves the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and northern British Columbia.
