Commissioner Angélique Bernard’s annual levee was virtual this year. Due to COVID-19, the only awards presented were the Orders of Yukon, given out in separate ceremonies in December.

Michael Gates, the Story Lauriete of Yukon, shared some history of Commissioner’s Levees from the past. Inductees to the Order are:

Agnes Mills, an advocate for the well-being of Indigenous peoples across Canada.

Bess Cooley, called the master of the Tlingit language, for contributions to the Indigenous knowledge and language revitalization.

Bill Klassen, a former RCMP officer, wildlife biologist and conservation officer actively engaged in the community.

Doug Phillips, a former Yukon Party cabinet minister, commissioner and dedicated volunteer.

Frances Woolsey was a pioneer in the development of programs to support a safe environment of Indigenous communities and a leader of promotion of the Indigenous culture.

Gertie Tom contributed largely to First Nations language revitalization and taught and mentored three generations of First Nations.

Jack Cable, a former Liberal MLA, commissioner and volunteer.

Keith Byram, a construction company owner supporter of many Yukon charities and sports organizations.

Ron Veale, a former Liberal MLA and Supreme Court of Yukon chief justice who retired in July 2020, for outstanding contributions to the law and politics.

Sally MacDonald, a longtime family physician, has delivered more than 1,000 Yukon babies.