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Death of a Yukoner

Death of a Yukoner The death of Raymond Silverfox is a tragedy. The facts of his death have been well documented, but I would just like to note that his death is the loss of a Yukoner, a family man and community member. I am sure I speak for many nonabor

The death of Raymond Silverfox is a tragedy.

The facts of his death have been well documented, but I would just like to note that his death is the loss of a Yukoner, a family man and community member.

I am sure I speak for many nonaboriginal Yukoners when I say his death is the shame of a whole territory.

A mere two weeks ago, a two-day conference on social inclusion was held. Silverfox’s death is a dreadful example of how far we really have to go.

I grieve for the untimely death of Silverfox and I grieve for a loss of humanity, which goes beyond race; a part of our community’s soul has been deeply scarred. This is not simply an issue that should concern only First Nations, it is a shame we all bear.

To paraphrase Tommy Douglas: A community is judged not by the height of its skyscrapers nor the depth of its gold but by the manner in which we treat those most in need.

In this tragedy, we have failed. I extend my deepest sympathy to the family.

Audrey McLaughlin

Whitehorse