Trudeau Government Supports Yukon Assembly Of First Nations Climate Action

Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jonathan Wilkinson, announced $250,000 in funding for the Assembly of First Nations Yukon Region through the Climate Action Fund. Through this funding, the organization will convene a gathering to bring together and empower First Nations to play a leading role in climate action in the Yukon. The Assembly of First Nations Yukon Region plans to raise awareness of climate change through knowledge sharing and youth leadership while exploring innovative solutions to support the energy transition in their communities.

“Indigenous communities—especially in the north—are at the forefront of climate change. I’m inspired to see the Assembly of First Nations raising awareness of climate change and empowering communities and youth to take climate action. As we aim for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, our government is committed to supporting Canadians across the country in transitioning to a cleaner, more prosperous future for our kids and grandkids.”
– The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“Yukon First Nations are individually tackling climate change by developing renewable-energy systems; increasing local food production; and improving their resiliency to hazards like wildfires, droughts, and permafrost thaw. Today’s gathering brings communities together to address climate change with urgency through cooperation and the reliance on the wisdom of our elders and the visions of our youth for the sake of all Yukon First Nations.”
– Peter Johnston, Grand Chief, Council of Yukon First Nations

The Climate Action Fund provides up to $3 million annually to support projects delivered by students, youth, Indigenous Peoples and organizations, not-for-profit organizations, small and medium-sized businesses, and research and educational institutions that raise awareness of climate change and encourage others to take meaningful climate action.