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Yukon Employee Union demand Text-to-911 access, citing equality and safety concerns

Friday, 2 May 2025 11:00

By Panebi Wilson @chonfmpwilson

A delgation of membes of Yukon Emplyee Union at the entrance of Jim Smith Building with placards (Panebi Wilosn - Chonfm News)

The lack of Text-to-911 access disproportionately affects individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or unable to speak, denying them equal access to emergency services.

Yesterday, May 1st, the Yukon Employee Union organized a rally in front of the Yukon Legislative Assembly, demanding the implementation of Text-to-911 access in the territory. This life-saving service has been available in southern provinces for years, but remains inaccessible in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.

The lack of Text-to-911 access disproportionately affects individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or unable to speak, denying them equal access to emergency services.

Vice President Yukon Employees Union Lisa Vollans-Leduc emphasized that the lack of Text-to-911 access creates a significant barrier for individuals with hearing or speech challenges, hindering their ability to communicate easily and access emergency services.

"They can't just pick up the phone to call 911 right, so they need a way to get to emergency service that is accessible to them and right now that accessible service doesn’t existent in the territory," Vollans-Leduc added.

Yukon NDP Leader Kate White made a strong show of support by attending the rally in person. She underscored the urgent need for Text-to-911 access, emphasizing that Yukoners have waited far too long for this essential service.

"We've been working alongside the deaf community for a number of years and this is not the first time they've brought this forward. So we've been pushing for this and asking for it for at least a decade." White said.

Despite the chilly weather, a dedicated group of approximately 10 community members, advocates, and workers braved the elements to attend the rally, demonstrating their strong support for the implementation of Text-to-911 access in the Yukon.

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