Monday marks Gwich'in Day across the N.W.T.

Monday marks the day the Gwich'in land claim was signed, and to celebrate it, events are being held all across the Mackenzie Delta.

Martina Tetlichi is proud to be Gwich'in. She said she's ready to celebrate her culture with others in Fort McPherson on Monday.

"I just want to say Happy Gwich'in Day to all the Gwich'in out there," said Tetlichi.

"Just being around other Gwich'in people and other people that come and join our celebration. Just being together with the community."

Tetlichi was raised by her parents, who spent their lives on the land. When she and her siblings were attending residential school, they would come home every summer and stay with their parents at their camp.

"We learned everything about fishing and hunting and our traditional way of life," said Tetlichi.

She still loves spending time on the land and connecting with her culture by sharing her experiences with friends and family.

On April 22, 1992, the Gwich'in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement was signed into law.

Janesta McLeod of Inuvik is proud of the tight connection within the community.

"I am proud of the connection we have not only to the land but each other," said McLeod.

McLeod said the bond she feels from the Gwich'in community is so strong, she is confident that whatever life brings her way, she will have a good solid support system in place.

"The way the community pulls together, especially during hard times. I am so proud to be from a community that I know will have my back when it comes down to it," she said.

Events are planned in each of the four Gwich'in communities — Inuvik, Fort McPherson, Aklavik and Tsiigehtchic — and at the Tribal Council's office in Edmonton.

Gwich'in Tribal Council Grand Chief Ken Kyikavichik said the day is meant to be shared with everyone, not just members of the Gwich'In Nation.

"It would be great to see everybody — that is what these days are about. Whether you're Gwich'in or not, come celebrate the formation of this milestone agreement," said Kyikavichik.

Kyikavichik said working together in the region is what will bring all people the best opportunities and hopes to see more collaboration in the future.

"It's how the Gwich'in and non-Gwich'in in the Beaufort Delta region work together and collectively succeed for our future generations," he said.