Inuvik (Apr 29/05) - A proud day for aboriginals around the territory was celebrated with a twist last week.

The 13th annual Gwich'in Day celebrations in Inuvik had a theme for the first time.

Inuvik Native Band Chief Richard Nerysoo and Denise Kurszewski of the Gwich'in Tribal Council present Inuvik RCMP Staff Sgt. Sid Gray with a plaque honouring the police force for their partnership with the community and the brave work they do.

In keeping with that theme, representatives presented plaques to the men and women of the RCMP and volunteer fire departments in honour of the dangerous jobs they do.

The ceremony, along with plenty of food and good cheer, took place outside the Jim Koe building.

"It's not something we've done in the past, but this year we thought it would be good to recognize these people for what they do. It's often a thankless job," said Margaret Gordon, acting corporate manager for the Gwich'in Tribal Council (GTC), which organized the event with the Nihtat Gwich'in Council (NGC).

April 22 has been a special occasion for the Gwich'in since 1992, the day their land claim agreement was signed. Celebrations took place across the territory.

NGC president Chief Richard Nerysoo used the opportunity to thank the RCMP for their efforts across the country at improving relations with aboriginal communities. He also mentioned the Canadian Rangers and thanked them for their daring search and rescue missions. A special word of gratitude was also passed on to the Inuvik volunteer fire department.

"Thank you for accepting the dangers of your trade," said Nerysoo.

Staff Sgt. Sid Gray accepted the award on behalf of the Inuvik RCMP.

"I was tickled, it was truly unexpected," said Gray.

"The fact that they recognized us that way, a governing body, means a lot."

Important celebrations

Around 100 people turned out for the events, which were open to all.

"I wanted to be a part of today's events for my family. It's important to my wife," said Merle Machinine, a Cree man married to a Gwich'in woman.

The cultural component can be had elsewhere, but this is a celebration of the land claim signing and what that means for the people, he said.

In Saskatchewan, where Machinine is from, little was taught about the Gwich'in people. Lessons focused on the Cree and Blackfoot.

"That's why it's important for everyone to be involved in this type of celebration," he said.

"The more you know about a certain group of people the less ignorance there is."