Delegation to Arctic Frontiers in Tromsø, Norway

The Arctic Athabaskan Council (AAC) delegation at the Arctic Frontiers conference in Tromsø, Norway, is comprised of a diverse group of representatives who showcase the rich cultural, environmental and economic perspectives of the Athabaskan people in the Arctic region. Led by prominent leaders and experts, the delegation aims to actively engage in the dialogue on Arctic issues and present the unique insights of the Arctic Athabaskan community. The AAC’s delegation included the following people.

Chief Gary Harrison
Chief Gary Harrison was elected to the Chickaloon Village Traditional Council (CVTC) in 1984 and named Traditional Chief of Chickaloon Native Village (CNV) in 1994. Over the past 39 years, Chief Gary has served courageously in various leadership roles to support the sovereign rights of all Indigenous Peoples. This includes helping craft the Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples at the United Nations and another declaration for the Organization of American States. Chief Gary sits on the AAC Board of Directors.

Barb Joe
Barb Joe is Chief of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN), a self-governing First Nation with Traditional Territories in the Yukon Territory and northern British Columbia, Canada. Barb sits on the AAC Board of Directors.

Bridget Larocque
Bridget Larocque is a Métis scholar from the Arctic. As a researcher consultant for AAC she concentrates on gender equality, environmental sustainability and economies of the North. Bridget is the AAC lead on the Arctic Council Sustainable Development Working Group.

Liane Benoit
Liane specializes in applied research, project management and innovation in a variety policy areas including governance and accountability, climate adaptation, environmental stewardship, youth, food security and Arctic affairs. Liane is the AAC lead on the Arctic Council Emergency Prevention, Preparedness and Response Working Group.

Bodie Nichols
Bodie is an AAC youth delegate.

Chief Barb Joe, Bodie Nicols and Chief Gary Harrison at the Arctic Frontiers conference in Tromsø, Norway.

The delegation's participation will encompass a wide range of activities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops and networking events. With a focus on sustainable development, indigenous rights, climate change adaptation and traditional knowledge, the AAC delegation will bring forth valuable contributions to the ongoing discourse on Arctic affairs.

Through interactive sessions and collaborative engagements, the AAC delegation will share traditional wisdom, innovative practices and community-based solutions that have sustained the Athabaskan way of life for generations. By emphasizing the significance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering responsible stewardship of the Arctic environment, the delegation will highlight the pivotal role of indigenous voices in shaping the future of the region.

The AAC delegation will seek to actively foster partnerships and collaborations with international stakeholders, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation to address common challenges faced in the Arctic. By exchanging knowledge and best practices, the delegation will facilitate meaningful exchanges with the potential to drive positive change and create enduring impacts within the Arctic community.

Overall, the AAC delegation at Arctic Frontiers represents a beacon of indigenous leadership and empowerment, advocating for inclusive and sustainable development in the Arctic while sharing the principles of respect, resilience and unity that define Athabaskan people.

Conference events

Arctic Frontiers Side Event: Wildland Fires Sharing Circle

Chief Gary Harrison shares insights into traditional wildland fire practices.