Statement from Premier Pillai on the passing of Elder Percy Henry

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“It is with deep sadness that I mark the passing of respected and beloved Elder Percy Henry.

“Mr. Henry was a true Dawson legend. As one of the last fluent Hän language speakers, he tirelessly dedicated himself to sharing knowledge of his people, culture and language.

“Mr. Henry was a former Chief of Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government and was instrumental in initiating the Yukon’s land claims process. In 1973, he was among the Yukon Chiefs who travelled to Ottawa to present Together Today for Our Children Tomorrow. In 2019, Percy received the Order of Yukon, the territory's highest honour.

“Mr. Henry was an active Elder well into his senior years and worked to keep his First Nation’s traditions and culture alive. He championed language revitalization through many hours devoted to mentoring learners, translating and documenting the Hän language. Those with the good fortune of spending time in his company enjoyed Mr. Henry’s great sense of humour and engaging storytelling along with his infinite patience when teaching the Hän language.

“In 2021, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government published the Hän-language children’s book called Shëtsey – My Grandpa. The book pays tribute to the beloved Yukon Elder by depicting activities that he loves and is meant to encourage people to learn. Mr. Henry co-wrote and translated the book to Hän.

“There is a sign at the Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre that quotes Mr. Henry saying: 'We need to teach our children today, so our way of life will live on'. Mr. Henry embodied his philosophy. His life and work made a positive difference in his community and his important legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.

“On behalf of the Government of Yukon, I extend the Yukon’s heartfelt condolences to Mr. Henry’s family and friends, and the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Community.”