Today marks 30 years since the United Nations General Assembly first proclaimed Aug. 9 as International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.

“International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is an important occasion to recognize and celebrate the distinct cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples in the Yukon, throughout Canada and around the world,” Premier Ranj Pillai said today to recognize the milestone.

“It is also an opportunity to reaffirm Indigenous People’s right to self-determination.

“Since time immemorial, Canada and the Yukon have been the home to Indigenous Peoples,” the premier added.

“First Nations are inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and ways of relating to the land, the environment and each other. Canada’s colonial legacy sought to destroy these distinct cultures, resulting in devastating and enduring consequences on Indigenous ways of life, rights and self-determination.”

This is a day to acknowledge the strength, perseverance and determination of First Nations leaders, elders and community members “who sought recognition of their identities, their cultures and their right to traditional lands, territories and natural resources through self-governance,” Pillai added.

“Each of the 14 Yukon First Nations’ cultures, traditions and contributions have shaped our territory for the better and remain integral to our society. I encourage all Yukoners to take the time to listen to Indigenous voices, deepen our learning of Indigenous experiences and reflect on our role in reconciliation.”