A newly elected town council in Dawson City, Yukon, is facing an unprecedented standstill after its members declined to pledge allegiance to King Charles III during their swearing-in ceremony. This refusal has significant implications for the council’s ability to govern, raising questions about the relationship between local governance and historical ties to colonialism.
Stephen Johnson, the mayor-elect, along with his fellow council members, was set to take the oath early this month. However, they chose to abstain from this requirement in solidarity with Darwyn Lynn, an indigenous council member representing the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation. Lynn has expressed concerns about the historical impact of the Crown on Canada’s indigenous population.
Under Yukon law, elected officials must take their oath within 40 days of election or risk nullifying their victory. The deadline for Johnson and his council is 9 December. Until they complete this oath—which includes a pledge of loyalty to King Charles III and his successors—the new council cannot undertake any official business.
Johnson described their predicament succinctly: “We can’t do anything legally required of us under the Municipal Act,” highlighting the challenges posed by their decision.
Despite their refusal, Johnson emphasized that their actions were not intended as a slight against the monarchy. Instead, he framed it as a collective gesture of support for reconciliation efforts within the community.
In response to this impasse, the town council has approached Yukon provincial officials with a request for an alternative oath. Although a spokesperson for Yukon’s Department of Community Services confirmed receipt of this request, no further information about its potential approval has been disclosed.
Outgoing mayor Bill Kendrick expressed hope that a resolution would be reached soon so that the new council could begin its duties. He noted varied opinions among residents regarding the relevance of the royal oath—some view it as outdated, while others see it as essential to Canada’s governance structure.
Dawson City, with a population of approximately 2,400, holds historical significance as the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush which began in 1896. This town sits on land once occupied by Tr’ochëk, an indigenous hunting camp that was largely displaced during this period.
Canada’s recognition of its complex colonial history continues to evolve. In recent years, leaders have openly acknowledged past injustices faced by indigenous peoples. The situation in Dawson City reflects broader conversations across Canada regarding colonial legacies and governance traditions.
As discussions about oaths and allegiances unfold in Dawson City and beyond, it raises critical questions about how communities navigate their histories while working towards reconciliation and self-governance in a contemporary context.
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