On Air Now CHON Overnight 6:00pm - Midnight

Now Playing Overnight schedule with hourly CP news-breaks CHON Overnight Programming

Listen Live

Whitehorse Emergency Shelter unveils New Artwork celebrating Yukon First Nations culture

Thursday, 22 May 2025 10:38

By Panebi Wilson @chonfmpwilson

Photo by CYFN: Violet Gatensby, CYFN Staff, and artwork panel “Sacred You” ( Panebi Wilson/CHON-FM news)

Gatensby drew inspiration from a poignant conversation about cultural division, and the piece features contributions from Grade 5 students from Whitehorse Elementary School.

A vibrant new art panel titled "Sacred You" was unveiled Wednesday, May 21st at the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Yukon's Indigenous communities.

Renowned Yukon First Nation artist Violet Gatensby, a citizen of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation, created the artwork. Gatensby drew inspiration from a poignant conversation about cultural division, and the piece features contributions from Grade 5 students from Whitehorse Elementary School.

During the unveiling ceremony, Gatensby shared the story behind "Sacred You," emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and cultural connection. Her words, "The most sacred thing about your culture is you," resonated deeply with attendees.

The unveiling of "Sacred You" is part of a broader initiative to promote cultural safety and inclusivity in the shelter through art.

According to CYFN Grand Chief Peter Johnston, "Art ensures Yukon First Nations are visible and reflected in spaces that matter, where healing, connection, and care are needed most."

More from CHON-FM Northern News

Senate Committee on Human Rights report calls for changes to government care for youth

Committee Chair Senator Paulette Senior says that Indigenous youth are particularly in need of a transitional system.
Yukon Department of Education corrects bus cancellation rumor amid record‑cold snap

Education Minister Scott Kent apologized to families and students for the unnecessary stress and anxiety caused by the inaccurate notice.
Yukon Government scraps liberal‑Initiated École Whitehorse Elementary relocation, launches community‑driven site search

The decision follows several community meetings where residents raised concerns about traffic, neighbourhood impact, and a lengthy rezoning process.
Yukon Energy urges residents to conserve power during extreme cold snap

Yukon Energy is asking all customers to be mindful of their electricity use, especially during peak periods from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Recount confirms Liberal candidate victory in Yukon Vuntut Gwitchin district

The narrow margin triggered the automatic recount, with Justice Karen Wenckebach overseeing the process.
2025 Territorial general election official results certified

No winning candidates changed. In Vuntut Gwitchin seven‑vote margin triggered a recount.
Whithorse City council to vote on 2025 food for fines program proposal

Donations must equal or exceed the ticket value, which ranges from $20 to $40.
Whitehorse RCMP identify remains of sudden death investigation

The Yukon Coroner’s Service and multiple RCMP units are continuing the investigation, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
Whitehorse RCMP charge woman in hand cyclist collision

Ashley Kirkpatrick, also known as Ashley Godin, has been charged with driving carelessly, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and operating an unregistered vehicle.
Taku River Tlingit First Nation engages with Canagold Resources on proposed mine project

The collaboration between the Nation and Canagold aims to ensure that development proceeds in a way that prioritizes the protection of the environment and the Nation's interests.
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon NDP candidate for Kluane John VanderMeer

Audio
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon Party candidate for Klondike Richard Nagano

Audio
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon Party double feature! YP candidate for Vuntut Gwitchin Sandra Charlie and YP Candidate for Southern Lakes Tyler Porter

Audio
Attempted abduction reported in Whitehorse

The suspect is described as a heavier-set male with dark skin and a high-pitched voice, wearing a light green hoodie, gray sweatpants, and "Jordans" shoes.
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon NDP candidate for Vuntut Gwitchin Annie Blake

Audio
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon Liberal Party candidate for Southern Lakes Cynthia James

Audio
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon Liberal Party candidate for Mayo-Tatchun Jeremy Harper

Audio
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon NDP candidate for Mountainview Linda Moen

Audio
The 2025 Territorial General Election at a glance

Yukoners are getting ready to head to the polls. Here's a look at what you need to know.
2025 Territorial Election Interview Series: Yukon NDP candidate for Watson Lake-Faro-Ross River Josie O'Brien

Audio