Learning from Guardians in Ross River
Written by Randi Newton | December 14, 2023
Two weeks ago, Chris, Anne, and I from the team went on a picturesque journey to Ross River, cruising through Yukon winter landscapes. Our team found time to wander along the banks of Tu DesDes (Pelly River), watching the water slow a little more each day as it approached freeze-up. We met with the Tu Łidlini Land Guardians and hosted a movie night all about rivers, youth, and connecting with the land. There was so much to see and learn on the traditional territory of the Ross River Dena Council.
Gukēyeh sogadzehʼī́ – “We watch the land in a good way”
These words guide the work of the Tu Łidlini Land Guardians. We were fortunate to head out on the traditional territory of Ross River Dena Council (RRDC) with two of these guardians, Josh and Cody. Our eyes were treated to gorgeous landscapes as we listened to the guardians speak about their passion for stewarding the land in ways that honour their culture, community, and Elders.
While out on the land with Josh and Cody, we learned of changes to the landscape and wildlife populations in the region, and we stopped to gaze out at Tsē Zūl.
A sign placed by RRDC highlighted how the mountain is a very special place, one where many of their ancestors lived year-round, relying on the area as a breadbasket. The shoulders of Tsē Zūl also bear the Faro Mine site; a long since abandoned site that is now one of the country’s most expensive and complex remediation projects.
In the evening, about 20 folks joined us to watch films from our trips on the Indian River and Tsé Tagé (Beaver River). Seeing the mix of ages, from school kids to elders, who all showed up was so fun! Even the younger children watched, squealing with excitement when they spotted moose and other wildlife on the screen.
Our community trip emphasized just how much the land needs guardians. The Tu Łidlini Land Guardians program is still in the development stage, and the guardians currently steward the lands of this special place with limited resources. Indigenous Guardian programs across the country deserve long-term investment and support, and the same is true for the Tu Łidlini Land Guardians. They are stewards of not just land, but of ancestral wisdom, culture, and community.