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Kwanlin Dun First Nation supports Whitehorse Arctic Winter Games bid

Thursday, 3 August 2023 12:59

By Stuart Bonell

Kwanlin Dun First Nation Chief Sean Smith says the games are an opportunity for youth.

Kwanlin Dun First Nation has voiced its support of Whitehorse’s bid to host the Arctic Winter Games. Chief Sean Smith said he wants to see his Nation’s Youth have the opportunity to be involved in healthy competition and connection with other northern youth.

"I really see a lot of great opportunities to support youth in individual sports and recreation and wellness and health and vitality that comes into our community," said Chief Smith. "And, us being part of the larger community of Kwanlin, you know, it's good to build those bridges of relationship; especially with the City of Whitehorse and Yukon Government, and those organizations that want to see these same things happen within our community, too."

After a month of considerations, Whitehorse City Council and the Government of Yukon both announced their support to host the games. Inspired by Halifax’s use of Mi'kmaw at the North American Indigenous Games last month, Chief Smith says he would love to do something similar when it comes to incorporating language at the event.

"I saw the youth really feel a strong connection to their identity. And, you know, even from all the different nations across North America that attended, when they saw the Mi'kmaw language being used and being recognized and being seen throughout the community of Halifax, in Nova Scotia, those are really powerful things that can create a lot of change and hope and connection to identity and how important identity is." 

The International Arctic Winter Games Committee asked Whitehorse to host the 2026 games in early July. The 2024 games will be held in Matanuska-Susitna, Alaska.

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