Shaping How We Govern: Proposed Changes to the NWTRPA Constitution and Bylaws

At the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM), NWTRPA members will be asked to consider proposed changes to the Association’s Constitution and Bylaws.

These foundational documents describe our purpose and set many of the rules for how the NWTRPA is governed. The proposed changes are intended to better reflect who we are today, how we seek to work with members and communities, and our commitments to decolonization, reconciliation, racial equity, inclusion, and accountable governance.

Part of a Longer Journey

In 2016, the NWTRPA members endorsed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a framework for the Association’s future activities.

Since then, we have continued to examine our programs, policies, relationships, and organizational practices. Our current strategic plan identifies decolonization, reconciliation, and racial equity as our first strategic goal. It directs up to review our governance, management, operations, and programs through this lens.

Learn more about the NWTRPA’s ongoing work related to anti-racism, reconciliation, and decolonization.

Developing the Proposed Changes

In 2025, the NWTRPA Board took part in learning sessions with Chloe Dragon Smith about Ethical Space and with Brian Wildcat about Indigenous governance and the history of Maskwacis Education.

We then engaged IRP Consulting, founded by Yukon First Nations consultants Davida Wood and Tosh Southwick, to review our Constitution and Bylaws and recommend possible changes.

Earlier this year, the Board met to consider those recommendations and agreed to bring several proposed amendments to the membership.

These proposed changes are one step in our continuing effort to ensure that the way the NWTRPA is structured and governed evolves alongside our commitments.

Review the Proposed Changes and Participate

We encourage members to review the proposed amendments before the AGM so they can take part in an informed vote.

The 2026 NWTRPA Annual General Meeting will take place:

Date: October 7, 2026

Time: 12:00–1:00 p.m. MDT

Location: N’Dılǫ Community Gymnasium

The meeting is open to the public. However, only NWTRPA members in good standing may vote on Association business and Board elections.

Visit the 2026 AGM webpage to review the proposed amendments and current Constitution and Bylaws, and to find registration and membership information.