Preserving heritage: Indigenous cultural complex for future generations

by tanya_martins_2 | January 15, 2025 8:58 am

A contemporary wooden building stands in the foreground, set against a backdrop of mountains. The structure features an artistic representation of a wolf on its side, gabled roof with a central circular element, and several large windows. A pathway leads up to the entrance, where a few people are seen walking. — Artistic rendering of the heritage centre. Image courtesy Kobayashi & Zedda

The federal government and the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in have invested in an important space for cultural conservation and knowledge sharing.

The investment of more than $25.6 million will result in a heritage complex in Dawson City that will provide a community space for records preservation and archiving, as well as cultural and language programming.

This vital facility will provide the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in with a space to connect with their heritage and ensure that community members maintain connections to traditional knowledge and the land for years.

Once built, the complex will feature an oral history recording studio, a library, classrooms, and archives. Community members and visitors will be able to use this space to gather, learn, and connect with Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in culture and history.

A diverse group of individuals is gathered around a circular wooden table in a brightly lit room. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with plants and decorations visible in the background. A sign at the center of the table reads "Canada," accompanied by Indigenous symbols. Various items are displayed on the table, including a decorated cloth with floral patterns, a ceremonial smudge bowl, and a walking stick. The people are smiling and are dressed in a mix of traditional and contemporary attire. — Photo clicked on the day the announcement for the heritage centre was made. *Photo courtesy Elaine Corden/Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government*

The building will be designed to meet net-zero carbon performance standards and withstand and adapt to melting permafrost. A flood wall will also be installed to redirect any potential flood water around the building, mitigating risk from the Yukon River.

The federal government is investing $24,998,300 in this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program. Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in is contributing $672,532.80. This program launched in 2021 with an initial investment of $1.5 billion over five years in green and accessible retrofits, repairs, and upgrades.

Endnotes:

[Image]: https://www.constructioncanada.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TM_TrondekHwechin-1.jpg
[Image]: https://www.constructioncanada.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TM_TrondekHwechin-2.jpg

Source URL: https://www.constructioncanada.net/indigenous-cultural-complex-for-future-generations/