The Yukon territory has revised its oath requirements for municipal officials following a council's refusal to take the King's oath in solidarity with Indigenous concerns about the Crown's historical actions in Canada.
Dawson City Council Adopts New Oath of Allegiance for Elected Officials
Dawson City Council Adopts New Oath of Allegiance for Elected Officials
In a move toward reconciling with Indigenous history, Dawson City, Yukon, officials can now choose to pledge allegiance to Canada's constitution instead of the British Crown.
In a landmark decision, Dawson City, a small town in Yukon, Canada, has reformed its oath-taking protocols for newly elected officials. This change allows officials to pledge allegiance to the country's constitution rather than the British Crown, reflecting growing awareness of Canada's complex relationship with Indigenous peoples.
The adjustment comes in the wake of a recent impasse where Dawson City's newly-elected council, incorporating an Indigenous member, declined to take the traditional King's oath. Their actions were rooted in discomfort with the historical implications of this pledge, which many feel overlooks the colonial past and its ramifications for Indigenous populations.
Richard Mostyn, Yukon’s minister of community services, confirmed the new law, stating it provides an oath option that resonates more closely with the cultural identities and evolving values in society. Traditionally, officials in Canada have been required to swear allegiance to King Charles III, a practice that has increasingly faced scrutiny.
Councillor Darwyn Lynn, reflecting on his reluctance to take the King's oath, noted, "It didn’t get any easier to do," emphasizing the need for alternatives. The disruption triggered a significant dialogue regarding the implications of the pledge, highlighting diverse perspectives within the community of approximately 2,400 residents.
This development is not unprecedented; in 2022, Quebec updated its laws to eliminate the requirement of the royal oath for elected officials, with some legislators labeling it outdated. However, the oath continues to be mandatory for members of Canada's parliament and most provincial assemblies.
With the new option, Dawson City’s council is expected to take their chosen oath within the next few days, marking a significant shift in local governance that acknowledges the need for reconciliation and reflects a broader movement in Canada.
