Wanda Pascal elected new chief of Tetlit Gwich'in Council in Fort McPherson
Pascal elected chief with 189 votes in Monday's election
After receiving an outpouring of support from elders and youth in the community, Wanda Pascal put her name forward to run for chief of the Tetlit Gwich'in Council in Fort McPherson, N.W.T.
It paid off on Monday, when Pascal was elected chief with 189 votes. Ruby MacDonald received 78 votes, and John Itsi garnered 43.
Pascal says she had planned to run for a council seat, but an elder encouraged her to run for chief. He pointed to her knowledge of the land, where she was raised, and how involved she is with community events — something he said members want in a chief.
Pascal was also inspired by former chiefs, including the community's very first leader, Chief Julius.
"I guess it was different in the olden days, they never used to go out on meetings, [chiefs] would just stay home and be with people and that's one of the many things I'm looking forward to — just being here for our community," said Pascal.
More jobs for community
Pascal says she'll come into the new role prepared to face any challenges with positivity.
As soon as she gets sworn in as chief, Pascal plans on meeting and talking with community members, especially visiting with elders and seeing what they want in their council.
"The band is working on stuff trying to apply for money to get jobs," she said.
"I know there's lots of cutbacks, see how we can get money to do stuff for our people in the community, work closely with the Gwich'in Tribal Council, elders and youth of the community."