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This year, Nihtat Gwich'in who live outside their traditional lands will be able to cast a vote in the upcoming designated Gwich'in organization's presidential election. Online voting opened on June 9 and election day is June 23. ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø media interviewed both presidential candidates about their vision for the organization. Here, we speak to Wanda McDonald.

1. What made you decide to run for president?

I’m running for Nihtat Gwich’in Council (NGC) president to be a voice for and advance the rights and interests of all Nihtat Gwich’in. My diverse work experience and understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead have prepared me to lead over the next four years. This is the first year Nihtat Gwich’in members outside of the Gwich’in Settlement Area are eligible to vote. I'm asking the Nihtat Gwich’in membership to cast their vote for me to be their voice and entrust in my abilities to lead, govern and show results. I am passionate, dedicated and fully committed to making a positive difference for our community.

2. What do you see as the major issues this election?

Several key issues need urgent attention. I’d like to highlight the following:
-Financial management: The last audited financial statements available to the Nihtat Gwich’in membership were for fiscal years ending March 31, 2022 (Nihtat Gwich’in Council) and December 31, 2021 (Nihtat Corporation and its subsidiaries). Currently, two fiscal years are outstanding, with the most current fiscal year expected to be ready for approval next month. Without these audited statements, the membership cannot fully understand or assess the financial health of our organization.

Members are asking how the four court cases are being funded, and whether this is the best use of Nihtat Gwich’in resources. In addition, review the Nihtat Gwich’in Council — demand non-revolving loan, security agreement — corporate guarantee and mortgage. What is the purpose and usage of these loans? Guarantee of loans of affiliates are not permitted under the NGC bylaw, refer to Section 19.3.

-Membership engagement: Due to bylaw changes over the past couple years, there are currently no opportunities for members to raise their concerns at board meetings or the annual general assembly. Members are seeking more meaningful engagement and would like to receive regular updates.

-Strengthen relationships: We must rebuild our working relationships with the Gwich’in Tribal Council, other designated Gwich’in organizations, the Town of Inuvik, the GNWT, the federal and Indigenous governments, and most importantly, with our own members. Members want to see our government move forward in a positive, collaborative manner — working for the membership.

3. How do you propose to contend with those issues?

-Financial accountability: Work with the auditor to complete all outstanding financial reports, present/make available to members and ensure NGC is compliant with all reporting requirements.
-Strategic planning and engagement: Contract a facilitator to develop a strategic plan that sets clear short- and long-term goals for the next four years. This plan will include membership engagement sessions both within and outside the Gwich’in Settlement Region. Sessions may include community gatherings, online forums and/or by demographics.
-Rebuilding relationships: Understand the reasons behind disengagement, identify common interests and commit to working collaboratively with our partners and assert the rights and interests of Nihtat Gwich’in.

4. What would your first actions be if elected?

-If elected, take office immediately.
-30 days: Call a Nihtat Gwich’in Annual General Assembly prior to the Gwich’in Tribal Council Assembly in August 2025 — accept 2025 election results, appoint GTC board of directors, select GTC assembly delegates and discuss agenda items.
-Ensure outstanding audits are completed and provided to members, funders and registries.
-Hold a governance workshop with the newly-elected council to review their roles and responsibilities so they are prepared to discharge their duties accordingly.
-Six months: Prepare a comprehensive status report on governance and operations of Nihtat Gwich’in Council and Nihtat Corporation, including its subsidiaries. Present those findings to membership with clear next steps in terms of accountability.
-First year: Bylaw and policy review.

5. What does being Nihtat Gwich’in mean to you?

Being Nihtat Gwich’in means being part of a designated Gwich’in organization under the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement. It’s about belonging to a community where we can relate to our leadership, participate in our government and cultural activities and celebrate our shared identity. We need to return to communal events-gatherings, where we can socialize, laugh, share food, exchange stories and work together to strengthen our community.

6. Anything else you would like to add?

A key immediate priority is to ensure the outgoing Nihtat Gwich’in Council fulfills its obligation under Bylaw No. 1 to call a NGC Annual Assembly to accept the 2025 election results. This assembly should coincide with the June 23, 2025, election to ensure compliance of the NGC bylaw, election policy and the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporation Act. 

A revised voters list was provided to the candidates with no contact information. The only information is the voter name and Inuvik as the community. As candidates, we have no way to contact Nihtat Gwich’in members outside of Inuvik. This limits our ability to provide candidate information so voters can make an informed vote.