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CAFN mourns the loss of Councillor Michael “Mickey” Beattie

CAFN mourns the loss of Councillor Michael “Mickey” Beattie

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 27, 2023

Statement mourning the loss of Councillor Michael “Mickey” Beattie

 

Dakwäkäda (Haines Junction, Yukon Territory) – It is with great sadness that Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN) announces the loss of Councillor Michael “Mickey” Beattie. Mickey passed away unexpectedly last week.

“We are in shock at the sudden loss of an important member of our community,” says Chief Barb Joe. “This week we will be hosting community fires at the healing house in Dakwäkäda, Shadhäla and Takhini. Our people are grieving right now. But we have the support of our family and friends to help us through this difficult time.”

Mickey was first elected to Council in 2019 and again in 2022. Mickey’s two terms in office displayed his dedication to the nation. Mickey was known as a “Man of the Land” and spent much of his time out in the wilderness. He loved being able to share this knowledge with his family and friends. He particularly enjoyed his work with youth and supporting youth programming. The Bison hunt was an important yearly tradition where he helped educate young Citizens on harvesting and traveling safely out on the land.

Mickey Beattie received his traditional name last summer, Kų̀takʼä̀nndāltà, which means “Walking amongst the forest dad”. He was raised by hunters, trappers, cowboys and cowgirls. He was known as the “Champagne Cowboy” and taught horsemanship to many, keeping the hunting traditions of the Shadhäla Dän (people) alive. He believed that through supporting our youth with the knowledge of traditional ways and on the land skills, it would build confidence towards providing for their families and the skills needed to pass on to future generations.

Mickey served on the Kluane Park Management board for over 8 years and was a representative of the Alsek Renewable Resource Council (ARRC) for 2 terms.

CAFN extends our deepest condolences to all of Mickey’s family and friends. He will be missed by many.

“Together, we can make our youth, our language, our culture and our people stronger.” – Mickey Beattie

For more information:

cafn.ca
Jenna Henderson, A/Strategic Communications Manager
(867) 334-6264
[email protected]