FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2023
“June 13, 2023, marks a milestone in the Yukon’s long and storied history.
“On this day in 1898, 125 years ago, Canada’s Governor General provided Royal Assent to the Yukon Territory Act welcoming the Yukon as the 9th member of Confederation.
“From the early days of mining and the Klondike Gold Rush to the construction of the Alaska Highway to leading the way in First Nations self-governance to drawing tourists from around the globe North of 60, the Yukon has made significant contributions not only to Canada but the rest of the world.
“We certainly celebrate all that has been accomplished in the past 125 years. There can be no doubt that we have had challenges and problems, however despite these, there is far more that is worth celebrating.
“It is generations of First Nations and Sourdoughs who built this territory, and with the help of Cheechakos, the Yukon is set to thrive for the next 125 years and beyond.”
--Leader Currie Dixon
“As someone who was born in the Yukon’s original capital, and as a former Commissioner, I am ecstatic to celebrate the Yukon’s 125 birthday.
“I am especially pleased to mark the territory’s birthday by attending a Special Sitting of the Yukon Legislative Assembly in the original Territorial Council chambers in Dawson City – in a building where I attended school back in the day.
“I have many fond memories growing up in Dawson. I have watched the territory show its resiliency through our ups and downs. But it is the people who make the Yukon what we are today.
“I hope everyone takes a bit of time to celebrate this special occasion.
“Happy birthday Yukon!”
--- Geraldine Van Bibber, CM, MLA Porter Creek North.
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