Former Yukon commissioner receives Order of Canada

Yukon aboriginal rights activist Judy Gingell became a member of the Order of Canada Friday in Ottawa.

The Kwanlin Dun First Nation elder was Yukon's first aboriginal commissioner, serving from 1995 to 2000. She has also served as chair of the Council of Yukon First Nations.

In these roles Gingell raised awareness about aboriginal culture and made sure First Nations communities had a say in decisions made about the territory's economy.

Gingell received the Order of Canada from Gov. Gen. David Johnston at a ceremony at Rideau Hall along with 25 other people from across the country.

The Order of Canada was created in 1967. It's meant to recognize a person's lifetime dedication to their community and the country.

More than 6,000 people have received the Order of Canada.