Bibberle unplugged

Yukon Archives, Yukon Human Rights Commission and the National Association of Japanese Canadians have partnered to honour Jujiro Wada, a Japanese dog musher, prospector and adventurer who traveled throughout Yukon, Alaska and the Northwest Territories at the turn of the century. The public is invited to attend the Yukon Quest Meet the Mushers event Feb. 7 at the Westmark Whitehorse beginning at 7:00 p.m. to meet this year’s participants in the race and share in the unveiling of the exhibit of Mr. Wada’s achievements in the North. "Mr. Wada traveled by dog team along what is now the Yukon Quest Trail over 100 years ago when it was a traditional travel route. He learned his survival skills and travel routes through the assistance of the aboriginal people in the north," said Lillian Nakamura Maguire, educator for the Yukon Human Rights Commission. "He was respected for his hardiness, dog care and good character, although, as a Japanese man he experienced racism due to the strong anti-Asian sentiments in the early 1900s," Nakamura Maguire said. "The Yukon Quest is dedicated to honouring the traditions of travel by dog team in the North and the equal treatment of all dogs and people taking part in the race. Mr. Wada embodied the love and respect for his dogs that is one of the founding principles of the Yukon Quest," said Stephen Reynolds, Yukon Quest (Canada) Executive Director. "We are honoured to help bring Jujiro Wada’s incredible story to the world." "Working in partnership with Yukon Human Rights Commission, Yukon Archives uncovered the hidden history of Asian immigrants to Yukon. The Yukon Archives holds a rich collection of archival material related to Yukon culture and this exhibit provides a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Yukon’s past," Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Taylor said. "By working together and sharing the hidden history and stories from all cultures and ethnic groups, we work toward eliminating discrimination and ensuring that Yukon offers equality for everyone," Nakamura Maguire added. The panel depicting Mr. Wada is one of three panels that Yukon Human Rights Commission and Yukon Archives developed with a financial contribution from the National Association of Japanese Canadians. The official launch of the complete three-panel display celebrating Asian History of the Yukon will take place in May. A brochure on Asian history and a short summary of Mr. Wada’s life in the North will also be provided to the public at the unveiling of the first panel of the photo exhibit.