10. Yukon Gold: Shining Success or Tarnished Ideal?

In 1993, the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations in Haines Junction, Yukon, near Whitehorse, signed an historic land claims and self-government agreement. It gave the First Nations a significant amount of money, co-control of 2500 square kilometres of land, and the power to pass laws and govern municipal services and programs. It was a celebrated agreement. With hidden costs. This segment of Venturing Forth examines how the new autonomy is playing out in Haines Junction a decade after the agreement was signed. Is the business and administration of these First Nations running smoothly? Is the economy thriving? Has self-government strengthened the cultural and spiritual life of the Champagne and Aishihik people, as expected, or hindered it? This is a behind-the-scenes look at emerging First Nations, doing their best to address the often complicated, sometimes divisive demands of self-government.

Locations: Haines Junction, Klukshu, Whitehorse-Yukon.