Tsiigehtchic's tourist centre is getting an major upgrade after a federal announcement on June 21.
NWT MP Michael McLeod revealed that the federal government is contributing $209,800 to fund the redesign of the centre into a new Gwichya Gwich'in Band Cultural Centre.
"The Gwichya Gwich'in Band is very proud and grateful for this opportunity; the cultural centre will increase capacity within the community, allowing Indigenous artists to showcase their works," said Gwichya Gwich'in Band Council Chief Phillip Blake. "It will provide job opportunities, introduce sewing programs and provide a secure building for band workers.
"The cultural centre will also be a place for tourists to learn about Gwich'in culture and history. Elders will have a place to share stories of Tsiigehtchic and share to younger generations to maintain culture. The Gwichya Gwich'in Band Council is very excited for this project," Blake added. "Haii cho."
The cultural centre will provide an interior space to be used for both cultural programming and community activities. The building will have a modern heating system so it can operate all year. The space will house both the cultural centre and the Gwichya Gwich'in band office. The project is expected to be completed this fall.
Several pieces of Nagwichoonjik heritage, including a replica skull of a 13,650-year-old steppe bison discovered in the community, as well as traditional and contemporary objects fashioned by local artists will be featured within. A space for artists to sell their work will also be established.
Established in 2015, the Tsiigetchic Tourism Centre currently consists of two buildings, including a museum area and a separate shower and kitchen, intended to accommodate paddlers coming down the Mackenzie and Arctic Red Rivers.
"The Gwichya Gwich'in Band Cultural Centre is not just a place to discover the found history of the Gwich'in people," said McLeod. "With this investment, the community will also have a place to gather, share and create, all year long. The story of the Gwich'in people is in the artifacts the centre will display, but it also lives in the traditions and teachings that will be exchanged there.
"Tsiigehtchic residents will now have an updated place to celebrate their history and culture and to share that knowledge with those that will become the Elders of tomorrow."