Rae-Edzo (June 30/03) - Elders beamed and clapped. Children ran around and screamed. Drums beat, feet danced.

It was a festive night in Rae as officials announced the ratification of the Tlicho agreement at midnight on Friday.

The final votes reflected the feelings many Tlicho have -- that it is time for them to take control of their own futures.

An overwhelming 84 per cent voted to ratify the agreement.

That amounts to 1,555 'Yes' votes, with over 91 per cent voter participation.

"I think it is good for us, for our people," said Noel Quitte from Rae.

While the clear majority voted 'yes', there were still some concerns voiced over how the agreement will be implemented and what the future holds.

"There are a lot of worried people. There is lots of uncertainty. What's going to happen to us in 30-40 years," asked Jonas Bouvier.

However, the feeling remains that this agreement will prove to be good for the Tlicho.

"It's a good idea for our people. It concerns us, not anybody else," said Frank Beaulieau from Rae.

Elders Alexis Arrowmaker, Joe Migwi, Jimmy Martin and Jimmy B. Rabesca proudly sat in the middle of the Rae Cultural Centre, with the rest of the community and many from Rae Lakes, Wekweti, Gameti and Wha Ti fanning around them waiting to hear the results.

These four, along with Harry Simpson, have been working on such a deal for the better part of their lives and finally saw their work and dream realized.

As Grand Chief Joe Rabesca read the results, each had a smile of triumph on their face.

When the announcements were over, at about 12:30 a.m., those not already on their feet jumped up and a circle dance started -- without the beat of a drum -- allowing everyone to release their pent-up energy.

After about 45 minutes, there was a short break for a final prayer of thanks. Once complete, the drums started to beat and another circle dance ensued, enlivening the crowd once more.

Elders, adults, adolescents and children all joined, paying tribute to elders who couldn't join in, but who played such a part in this occasion.

At one point, children streamed by one elderly woman in a wheelchair who was sitting in the middle of the circle, each shaking her hand.

Shortly after, a young man came over and wheeled her into the circle dance, pushing her around a full circle before wheeling out another elder into the circle.