Paul Birckel

Paul Birckel (25 October 1938 – 8 July 2021) was a Canadian businessman and Chief of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations.^[1]

Paul Birckel
Born	25 October 1938 near Kluane Lake, Yukon, Canada
Died	8 July 2021(2021-07-08) (aged 82) Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
Nationality	Canadian
Occupation(s)	Businessman American Indian Chief

Biography

Birckel's father was from Alsace but left France in 1930 to take part in the Klondike Gold Rush. Paul was known for defending the rights and interest of the First Nations while working in Ottawa. As a prospector, he collaborated with petroleum companies in Alberta and Saskatchewan while working for ATCO Electric Yukon.

In 1978, Birckel was elected Chief of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations in Haines Junction, defending the interest of the tribe until 1998. He participated in negotiations with officials in Ottawa to help the tribe. He served as Executive Director of the Indian Council of the Province of Yukon.

Birckel received numerous awards, including Best Businessman of the Year award from the Yukon Chamber of Commerce, the National Aboriginal Achievement Award for Community Development in 2000, and a Merit Award from the Commissioner of Yukon.

Paul Birckel died in Whitehorse on 8 July 2021 at the age of 82.^[2]

References

1. "CAFN mourns passing of Chief Paul Birckel". Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. 9 July 2021. Retrieved 25 July 2021.
2. Tukker, Paul (9 July 2021). "Paul Birckel, leader in Yukon land claim negotiations, has died". Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 25 July 2021.