Today is Recognition Day in the Tlicho region of the N.W.T., marking the day the Tlicho government signed its land claim and self government deal seven years ago.

In Behchoko, the anniversary will be marked with a celebratory barbecue, hand games and a drum dance.

Grand Chief Eddie Erasmus said it's a special day to remember because the agreement is something the Tlicho had always been looking for.

“Seven years is not very long,” he said.

“There are times when government is trying to do work and build and accomplish something and it takes a lot of years and for Tlicho government accomplishments, I think we've done a lot in seven years.”

Last month it opened its first government building built entirely by Tlicho and construction is underway on a similar building in Gameti.