Adamek Reflects on CYFN and AFN Regional Merger

The Assembly of First Nations Yukon Region office is set to dissolve on October 1, as part of a strategic merger that consolidates roles between the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) and the AFN regional office. This decision stemmed from a Chiefs Summit and CYFN meeting in May, citing resource constraints and role duplication concerns. AFN Yukon Regional Chief Kluane Adamek explained that the regional office receives core funding from the AFN, while CYFN is federally funded, creating issues when seeking additional financial support. Adamek and the CYFN Grand Chief explored several options, ultimately deciding on a unified grand chief role to merge responsibilities, a move also taking into account modern treaty interests. Concerns from certain First Nations not party to the Umbrella Final Agreement were addressed, as they participated in merger discussions. Adamek emphasized the need for unity in addressing broader challenges such as climate change, Arctic sovereignty relations with the U.S., and implementing the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal's final settlement agreement. She expressed hope that Yukon First Nations will continue to engage with the AFN assemblies, even as the CYFN assumes a more integrated leadership structure. The election for the new CYFN leader is scheduled for June 25.