Whitehorse – Known to most Yukoners as an Olympic weightlifter, Jeane Lassen, who became the first Yukon athlete to participate in a Summer Olympics at the 2008 Beijing Games, will now be the Liberal candidate for the riding of Takhini-Kopper King.
Lassen, who grew up in the Takhini Trailer Court, announced earlier this year that she would be seeking the nomination for her home riding.
“I want to give back to my community,” Lassen said. “I feel so fortunate to have been able to represent Yukon and Canada all over the world as an athlete. I’ve learned many lessons in my sports career both on and off the field of play. I feel that using what I’ve learned to help serve others is what makes those tough lessons truly worthwhile.”
Lassen notes that in all of her travels, she has never been anywhere like the Yukon or met anyone as inspiring as Yukoners. Her relationship with Takhini-Kopper King runs deep.
“Playing on the clay cliffs, tobogganing on the hill between Range Road and Moutainview and exploring around McIntyre Creek with my little brother are among my fondest childhood memories,” said Lassen. “My closest friendships were forged on the playground of Takhini Elementary School. The first time I lifted a bar was at Porter Creek Secondary, where the majority of Takhini students attend high school. All of the family I have in the Yukon lives in either Takhini North or Kopper King. This part of the Yukon will always be home to me.”
Travelling throughout the Yukon and within her riding has given Lassen a chance to listen to Yukoners and hear their concerns.
“Some parts of our community are being taken care of, but many others are not. Talking with my neighbours, I learned that challenges surrounding education and health and mental wellness were on a lot of people’s minds,” said Lassen. “They want affordable housing. They want local hire to be a priority and for the recommendations surrounding the Peel to be respected. They want a government that works towards a respectful relationship with Yukon First Nations. These desires resonate with my vision for the Yukon.”
The next Yukon Liberals nomination will be held for the riding of Whitehorse West on April 19th. Ramesh Ferris and Richard Mostyn are contesting.
For more information please contact:
Jeane Lassen (867) 334-7007
Jason Cunning (867) 334-5518
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