It aims to preserve Alaska Native culture by giving tribes and tribal organizations the ability to oversee local child welfare problems, rather than social workers coming in from outside their communities. That often results in children being removed from their communities.
Alaska Native Government & Policy
Lt. Gov. Mallott, keynote speaker Jody Potts rouse delegates on opening day of AFN
Dressed in full Gwich’in regalia, Potts recounted growing up in a modest dirt-floor hunting cabin in Eagle, losing someone close to suicide, and taking the conventions theme of strength in unity to get back to enjoying life again.
Elders and Youth conference resolutions tackle LGBTQ rights, rural education, subsistence
Seven resolutions will go for a vote before delegates at the full Alaska Federation of Natives convention..
‘Part Land, Part Water – Always Native’: 34th Annual Elders and Youth Conference kicks off
Gov. Walker and Lt. Gov. Mallott both spoke, but is was the 17-year-old keynote speaker who brought the room to its feet with applause and cheers.
Trump taps Alaskan for Indian Affairs post at Interior
If confirmed, Tara Sweeney would be the first Alaskan to serve in the position. Her nomination has Alaska’s U.S. senators literally cheering.
Workshop group stresses importance of Southeast Native languages
During a language workshop Monday, a Tlingit elder unable to hear spoke up to encourage the young audience to pay attention. She recounted her years in boarding school and how she nearly lost the language completely.