Directors Statement
With the impacts of climate change falling disproportionately on northern and indigenous communities, local people are confronted not only with the threats to their wellbeing, but also with the complex challenge of finding solutions, often with limited resources. The Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation was among the first remote, diesel-dependent Arctic communities to fully commission and wholly own a solar energy project designed to meet its energy needs.
The vision for this film was not only to celebrate that remarkable achievement, but also to explore the deeper philosophy and determination that made it possible. Through the echoes of teachings passed down by Elders and the voices of young leaders rising in their time, a story unfolds not just of survival, but of sovereignty, innovation, and resilience.
Old Crow a Philosophy tells a local story that carries implications for a global audience. This audience includes northern communities around the world that are facing similar issues of energy self-sufficiency; the general diaspora of First Nations communities in Canada and internationally; as well as individuals and governments world-wide that are interested in sustainable energy solutions for our planet, and are committed to recognizing and taking measures to battle climate change.
At the heart of this story is a powerful question for all of us: What did you do?
Erika Tizya-Tramm and Daniel Janke
Erika Tizya-Tramm
Erika serves as the Manager of Community Partnerships with Northern Energy Innovation
at Yukon University. As a member of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, she is deeply committed to
Indigenous Nation-building by advancing environmental stewardship and sustainability priorities. With
over two decades of experience in land and resource management, Erika is uniquely positioned at the
intersection of traditional Indigenous values and modern sustainability practices. She has successfully led
Indigenous-driven initiatives in land use planning and management, policy and legislative development,
and renewable energy projects such as solar and wind, aimed at reducing carbon footprints and
fostering energy sovereignty. Her work emphasizes the integration of traditional knowledge with
innovative approaches to create sustainable futures for Indigenous communities. Outside of work, Erika
enjoys spending time laughing with family and friends.
Daniel Janke
Daniel Janke works as a composer, writer and filmmaker, based out of his studio near Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada.
Selected projects include: Homecoming Song [2020]; Grubstake Remix [multi-media, 2017]; River [2011]; How People Got Fire [NFB, 2009]; and Northern Town [CBC Television, 2006]
Outside of work, Daniel enjoys time with friends and family, and working on their
homestead in the Yukon where he grows potatoes and berries, and keeps an old tractor
going. For more information or to connect with Daniel, visit his website here.
