Chief and Council Spotlight — July 20-24

This week’s CAFN Council spotlight post highlights the recent Äshèyi Gathering and Camp. Earlier this month, CAFN Citizens and partners came together on the land for the Äshèyi Gathering & Camp at Äshèyi Män (Aishihik Lake), held from July 3–7, with the main Gathering on July 4. The camp brought Elders, youth, and families together to reconnect with Äshèyi through culture, ceremony, language, story, and time on the land at Shäkāt Kų Camp.

On July 4, participants travelled to Village Bay for a Welcome Song, community welcomes from the Äshèyi Community Advisory Committee, and principal addresses from CAFN, Yukon Government, Yukon Energy and Yukon’s MP. Leaders spoke about the history and impacts of the Aishihik Generating Station, acknowledged the inherited legacy, and reaffirmed the Äshèyi Agreement and shared commitments for the future. The day continued with guided visits to important cultural and historical sites, including the lake shore, drinking water sites, the new village, and the old village.

Throughout the week, people visited, shared stories, joined cultural activities and field trips, and helped shape ideas for future community‑led projects at Äshèyi. The gathering was an important step in honouring our history, strengthening language and culture, and walking a renewed path forward together on this land.