Joint Media Release – May 15, 2025 - Yellowknife, NT - The Yellowknives Dene First Nation Chief Ernest Bestina, Chief Fred Sangris, Councillor Liza Peiper, Councillor Lawrence Goulet, Councillor Mary Rose Sunberg, Councillor Cecilie Beaulieu, Elder Darrell Beaulieu, and Tłı̨chǫ Government Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty, Chief Alfonz Nitsiza, Chief Adeline Football, Chief Clifford Daniels, Assembly Member Archie Wetrade, Elder Joe Rabesca, and Elder Charlie Jim Nitisiza met on Thursday, May 15, 2025 to discuss the development of a closer working relationship between our two Nations. Elders from both Nations were present to provide traditional guidance.

The Yellowknives Dene First Nation and Tłı̨chǫ Nation have a long history as relatives and neighbours. Our past leaders, Edzo and Akaitcho, established a peace treaty between our Nations that provides a strong foundation for our governments to work together. This history and the values of respect and cooperation will continue to guide our people.

We are committed to working together and having further meetings and discussions. We will seek to uphold the direction of our former and current leaders and Elders to work together as two strong Nations. We will create pathways for our governments to collaborate more closely on opportunities and issues of shared importance. We are stronger together.

Media Contact:
Silal Shafqat
Director Economic Development
[email protected] 

Tłı̨chǫ Government
Communication & Media Relations
[email protected]