Proclamations

WHEREAS, Apprenticeship Week is celebrating its 10th anniversary of raising awareness of the vital role that Registered Apprenticeships play in providing opportunities to Alaskans by allowing apprentices to earn while they learn and preparing a pathway to quality jobs...

WHEREAS, from Main Street store fronts to virtual high-tech startups, the nearly two million veteran-owned small businesses across the United States are a pillar of our economy and contribute to the success of our Nation; and WHEREAS, veteran and military spouse small...

WHEREAS, our Nation was built upon the belief that all citizens are guaranteed the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and WHEREAS, the freedoms we enjoy and values we hold dear as Americans come at a cost, so as a Nation, we must make...

WHEREAS, women have served honorably and courageously in all of America’s wars and conflicts since the American Revolution, but their service was traditionally left unrecognized; and WHEREAS, although women did not officially receive permanent military status until...

WHEREAS, Alaska is a culturally rich and diverse land comprised of the Iñupiaq of Northwest Alaska, the Athabascan of the Interior, the Yup’ik and Cup’ik of Southwest Alaska, the Unangax of the Aleutian Islands, the Alutiiq of Southcentral Alaska, and the Tlingit,...

WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and is a progressive and degenerative brain disease that causes memory loss and affects self-care, decision-making, and behavior; and WHEREAS, it is projected that there will be 11,000 Alaskans age 65...

WHEREAS, many Alaskans suffer from chronic illness or pain and are disabled or otherwise in need of ongoing care; and WHEREAS, family caregivers are those who volunteer their time and effort to serve loved ones who cannot care for themselves, and by courageously...

WHEREAS, courageous individuals, both professional and volunteer, including police officers, firefighters, corrections officers, paramedics, EMTs, 911 dispatchers and operators, search and rescue teams, and other roles in the public safety sector come together as...

WHEREAS, the health, safety, and education of Alaska’s children is fundamental to the happiness, success, and well-being of Alaska’s families and communities; and WHEREAS, when offered an array of opportunities that fit their specific educational needs, Alaska’s youth...

WHEREAS, alcohol and drug misuse negatively affects individuals, families, and communities across Alaska and the Nation; and WHEREAS, it is imperative that community members launch visible, unified efforts to raise awareness of the risks of drug and alcohol use to the...

WHEREAS, the service of the Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG) in the protection of Alaska during World War II represents service above self that is a hallmark of the Alaskan spirit; and WHEREAS, following the attack on Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941, Alaska Territorial...

WHEREAS, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million in March of 1867, and on October 18, 1867, Alaska was formally transferred from Russia and officially became a United States Territory; and WHEREAS, approximately 250 United States Army troops...

WHEREAS, entrepreneurs and small businesses play a vital role in the economic success of our cities, State, and Country; and WHEREAS, Alaska has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem that creates new businesses and helps local communities preserve their unique culture...

WHEREAS, Alaska Statute recognizes the first full week of October as Alaska Employ People with Disabilities Week to celebrate and promote the integration of Alaskans with disabilities into our State’s workforce; and WHEREAS, this observance highlights the talent and...

WHEREAS, Alaskan winters bring distinct beauty and recreational opportunities. Once snow covers the landscape, Alaskan residents and visitors can ski, snowboard, snow machine, snowshoe, climb or skate on ice, and engage in many other winter activities; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, craftsmanship and ingenuity are embedded in the legacy of the Last Frontier and have helped shape our Great State into what it is today; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s staggering size, natural beauty, vast resources, and strategic location are the envy of the Nation,...

WHEREAS, Alaska continues to expand broadband and other critical infrastructure and Alaskans continue to leverage information systems and technology to support financial services, energy, telecommunications, transportation, utilities, health care, and emergency...

WHEREAS, all Alaskans deserve to be safe in their homes and communities. Domestic Violence is widespread and devastates many Alaskan families, and it is crucial that we combat these crimes; and WHEREAS, across Alaska, the physical and emotional wounds of domestic...

WHEREAS, fires cause devastating personal injury and property loss throughout Alaska; and WHEREAS, fire is a serious public safety concern, and people are at the most significant risk from fire in their or others’ homes; and WHEREAS, in 2023, there were 792...

WHEREAS, the construction industry is one of the largest in our Nation, employing eight million individuals in the United States, and construction professionals play a critical role in Alaska’s economy and development; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s world class system of Joint...

WHEREAS, keeping Alaskan families and communities healthy is of utmost importance and directly impacts the success of our Great State, and it is vital for the safety and well-being of Alaskans to have access to a variety of treatment options; and WHEREAS, Alaskans are...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s extensive road and trail networks provide some of the most breathtaking views in the world, making our State an ideal destination for biking and walking, which are healthy and environmentally friendly transportation options; and WHEREAS, pedestrians...

WHEREAS, Alaska is blessed with a diverse wildlife and its vast and expansive landscape provides bountiful resources; and WHEREAS, from big game hunting to sport fishing, Alaska’s hunting and fishing heritage is essential to the State’s economic and social well-being...

WHEREAS, clean and renewable energy is part of Alaska’s energy infrastructure and future. It includes generation from renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydro, tidal, biomass, geothermal, and hydrogen sources, and it also includes nuclear, natural gas, and carbon...

WHEREAS, Blue Star Families seeks to empower military families by connecting them with their neighbors, individuals and organizations to foster vibrant communities of mutual support; and WHEREAS, we recognize the 600,000 active-duty and transitioning military families...

WHEREAS, older workers play an increasingly important role in maintaining Alaska’s economy and leadership in the global marketplace, adding depth in perspective, social networks, and talent; and WHEREAS, seniors represent a growing percentage of the State’s population...

WHEREAS, throughout American history, generations of military servicemen and women have embodied patriotism by sacrificing their own personal safety and wellbeing to protect our country, our people, our freedom , and the values we cherish; and WHEREAS, too many of...

WHEREAS, all Alaskans deserve access to opportunities to gain the academic, technical, and employability skills necessary to lead prosperous and productive lives; and WHEREAS, Alaska Adult Education and Literacy programs have been serving Alaskans since 1942 with...

WHEREAS, quality forensic science plays an essential role in investigating crimes, from exonerating the innocent to identifying the guilty; and WHEREAS, forensic science plays a critical role in public outreach and crime prevention, and is evolving in its role as a...

WHEREAS, today marks 23 years since the American people faced the worst terrorist attack on United States soil on September 11, 2001; and WHEREAS, while the attacks were meant to divide our Great Nation, Americans responded by banding together in a remarkable display...

WHEREAS, providing healthy environments for infants and children to develop and grow is essential in ensuring the well-being and productivity of future generations of Alaskans; and WHEREAS, consuming alcohol at any stage of pregnancy can cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum...

WHEREAS, protecting the health and wellness of all Alaskans is key to ensuring a stronger future for our families and communities; and WHEREAS, suicide is the most tragic consequence of mental and emotional illness and distress, and is one of the top ten causes of...

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is committed to protecting its residents and those visiting our Great State by ensuring that our medical centers have a safe and sufficient supply of blood; and WHEREAS, a local in-state accessible blood supply is crucial for treating...

WHEREAS, it is imperative for all Alaskans to understand the critical need for affordable, accessible, and high-quality substance abuse treatment; and WHEREAS, substance abuse, co-occurring mental disorders, and co-existing physical illnesses are considerable public...

WHEREAS, our most precious resource is our children, and their well-being is vital to a bright future for Alaska; and WHEREAS, receiving a cancer diagnosis is distressing at any age, but it is even more heartbreaking when the patient is a child; and WHEREAS, pediatric...

WHEREAS, Alaska is a State rich in energy and embraces development of all its resources for the benefit of its people; and WHEREAS, hydropower is a cornerstone of Alaska's energy sector, providing 20 percent of in-State electricity; and WHEREAS, Alaska is home to over...

WHEREAS, fentanyl is a highly addictive synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It is made legally and used pharmaceutically, but has also become a prevalent substance in counterfeit pills and is frequently...

WHEREAS, for over fifty years, community health centers have provided accessible and affordable healthcare to underserved and uninsured members of communities across the Nation; and WHEREAS, a community health center’s Board is comprised of patients to ensure that...

WHEREAS, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) proclaimed the first National Farmers Market Week in 1999 to raise awareness of efforts nationwide for producers to sell directly to customers; and WHEREAS, a farmers market is an organized assembly of food...

WHEREAS, the United States Coast Guard has courageously protected our country’s shores since August 4, 1790, and is the nation’s oldest continuous seafaring service; and WHEREAS, nearly three-quarters of Alaskans reside along our 47,300 miles of coastline, and the...

WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy a variety of outdoor activities year round. From hiking to hunting, many of those activities involve the use of firearms; and WHEREAS, countless Alaskans rely on and take pride in the ability to use firearms to feed and protect their families,...

WHEREAS, since before World War II, the Alaska National Guard has acted as a first line of defense for the United States of America; and WHEREAS, the Alaska National Guard serves our Nation when called by federal service, and Alaska National Guard members stand ready...

WHEREAS, Alaska celebrated Rural Transit Day for the first time on July 16, 2020, to focus on what agencies have done and are doing to recognize the specialized needs of rural passengers and staff; and WHEREAS, as the reliance on rural transit has grown, so has the...

WHEREAS, over 200 years ago, a group of visionaries – our founding fathers – set out and established a new and independent nation, unlike any other, based on the philosophies of a representative democracy to affirm and safeguard each citizen’s personal right to pursue...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s extensive road systems allow for transportation of Alaskans and visitors for work, school, or leisure with the reasonable expectation of respectful and attentive treatment from fellow drivers; and WHEREAS, impaired driving remains a...

WHEREAS, Alaska summers bring longer days and many opportunities for outdoor activities to enjoy with family and friends; and WHEREAS, barbecuing is one such opportunity, being a distinctively American culinary tradition universally identified with summertime, family...

WHEREAS, Alaska is a State with many outdoor recreational opportunities that attract residents and visitors to a world-class setting; and WHEREAS, these opportunities include winter and summer activities, such as hiking, hunting, mountaineering, skiing, snow...

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is thankful for the continuation of strong international relations with the Republic of Korea, and Alaskans appreciate the Korean community’s many contributions to the economic and cultural diversity of our Great State; and WHEREAS, the...

WHEREAS, Alaska has an abundance of plant and animal species that make up the natural beauty of our Great State and contribute to the health of our ecosystems and industries; and WHEREAS, bees, birds, butterflies, bats, beetles, and other pollinator species provide...

WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, Union Soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas under General Order No. 3 to enforce President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation; and WHEREAS, on the anniversary of the Galveston announcement, the State of...

WHEREAS, the scenic mountains, meadows, rivers, and coastal bays of Alaska are prized for their diverse and abundant wild plants, fish, and wildlife, drawing more than two million visitors annually ; and WHEREAS, we rely on native flora and fauna, cultivated crops,...

WHEREAS, on June 3, 1942, six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, World War II arrived in Alaska when Dutch Harbor on Amaknak Island was bombed by Japanese aircraft – the first aerial attack by an enemy on the continental United States; and WHEREAS, the Japanese...

WHEREAS, Alaska is known for its expansive landscapes, and people from around the world come to experience the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife the Last Frontier has to offer; and WHEREAS, throughout Alaska’s changing seasons, residents and visitors can enjoy...

WHEREAS, America was founded on the principles of liberty and justice for all, and we recognize the generations of brave, patriotic men and women who have served in the military and have given their lives to protect and defend our Nation; and WHEREAS, each year on the...

WHEREAS, Arbor Day was first recognized by the State of Alaska in 1966 with the intent to increase public awareness of the importance of the conservation and propagation of trees and forests to the ecosystem and the daily life of the citizens of Alaska; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are a vital public service, and reliable access to fast, quality emergency medical care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden and life-threatening illness or injury; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, Alaska offers numerous outdoor water activities including kayaking, river rafting, sport fishing, and boating on a multitude of available waterways, and Alaska’s lakes, rivers, and coastline are used for recreation, work, subsistence, and transportation; and...

WHEREAS, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. WHEREAS, we preserve and uphold this tradition of recognition and remembrance as a...

WHEREAS, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. WHEREAS, we preserve and uphold this tradition of recognition and remembrance as a...

WHEREAS, children are Alaska’s most valuable asset, and quality care, stimulating learning environments, and positive early experiences help prepare them for a bright and successful future; and WHEREAS, although parents are the most important caregivers in a child’s...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s expansive landscapes are known to contain tremendous deposits of gold, silver, lead, zinc, copper, coal, gravel, rare earth minerals, and other critical and strategic minerals that are an essential component of our Nation’s economy and security; and...

WHEREAS, nurses are a critical component of our health care system, and the dedicated and compassionate professionals in this field are vital in maintaining a high quality of life for all; and WHEREAS, to be a nurse, one must have a commitment to selfless service,...

WHEREAS, a career in public service is an investment in the wellbeing of Alaska’s communities, families, and people; and WHEREAS, public service employees build and maintain the framework and infrastructure on which Alaska’s schools, businesses, and communities can...

WHEREAS, agriculture plays an integral role in the success of every civilization and was instrumental to the settlement of Alaska. From farmers feeding the miners of the 1800s gold rush to the settlers of the Tanana Valley, Alaskan agricultural frontiersmen have been...

WHEREAS, nurses are a critical component of our health care system, and the dedicated and compassionate professionals in this field are vital in maintaining a high quality of life for all; and WHEREAS, to be a nurse, one must have a commitment to selfless service,...

WHEREAS, a career in public service is an investment in the wellbeing of Alaska’s communities, families, and people; and WHEREAS, public service employees build and maintain the framework and infrastructure on which Alaska’s schools, businesses, and communities can...

WHEREAS, Correctional Officers are trained law enforcement professionals dedicated to maintaining safe and secure correctional facilities and ensuring public safety; and WHEREAS, the duties of Correctional Officers include the supervision, care, and rehabilitation of...

WHEREAS, all Alaskans have the right to safety and justice, and the elevated rates of missing and murdered Indigenous persons in Alaska is a serious problem; and WHEREAS, in 2023, Alaska reported 155 cases of missing and murdered Indigenous persons – 143 missing and...

WHEREAS, youth apprenticeship programs play a vital role in providing job opportunities and pathways to Alaskans by allowing youth apprentices to earn while they learn, advance into good, quality jobs and well-paying careers, and the ability to advance in those...

WHEREAS, public and firefighter safety is the first priority in all wildland fire management activities within our State, and agencies and organizations in Alaska share common goals to provide protection and reduce loss of life and property while preserving and...

WHEREAS, in 1952, a joint resolution by Congress declared an annual day of prayer, and in 1988, the law was amended to permanently set the day as the first Thursday in May each year; and WHEREAS, faith has played a significant role in American history, inspiring the...

WHEREAS, it is our duty to guide, inspire, and encourage our youth to go forth and serve America by becoming productive citizens; and WHEREAS, to achieve this worthy objective, we must demonstrate our understanding of the dreams and aspirations of our young people,...

WHEREAS, Alaska offers breathtaking scenery for biking and recreation on a multitude of roads and trails; and WHEREAS, established in 1956 and sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists, May is National Bike Month and is celebrated in communities across the United...

WHEREAS, Alaska is renowned for the beautiful lakes, rivers, and thousands of miles of coastline that provide Alaskans and visitors alike a wide variety of water-related activities to enjoy as part of the unique outdoor experience that life in the Last Frontier...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s road systems provide some of the most beautiful views in the world, making Alaska an excellent location for motorcycle and motor scooter use; and WHEREAS, many registered motorcyclists, who undergo extensive training and testing to obtain a license,...

WHEREAS, mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and affects how we think, feel, and act, as well as how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices ; and WHEREAS, four percent of adults today live with a variety of mental...

WHEREAS, children are Alaska’s most precious resource, and every child deserves a safe, loving, and stable home where they can grow, learn, and play; and WHEREAS, children in our communities who must be temporarily removed from their home to address their physical and...

WHEREAS, Alaskans are committed to recognizing that our growth and strength depends on the safety and effectiveness of our homes, buildings, and infrastructure, in everyday life and when disasters strike; and WHEREAS, our confidence in the resilience of these...

WHEREAS, aviation is an essential part of the Alaskan way of life because eighty-two percent of Alaska’s communities are inaccessible by road and they rely heavily on aviation for commerce, transportation, emergency medical services, shipment of essential goods, and...

WHEREAS, nearly 86,000 persons who trace their roots to Asia and the Pacific Islands make their home in Alaska; and WHEREAS, the languages, beliefs, and traditions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders enrich our communities and our State; and WHEREAS, we respect...

WHEREAS, Alaskan seniors, who numbered 156,832 in 2023, representing 21 percent of the State’s total population , have strengthened and enriched our communities through their diverse life experiences, social engagement, and valued contributions; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s...

WHEREAS, native plants are indigenous species that occur naturally in particular geographic regions, ecosystems, and habitats; and WHEREAS, native plants support healthy, diverse, and sustainable communities and ecosystems and are critical for purifying air, filtering...

WHEREAS, America’s success is driven by pioneers who think big, take risks, and work hard, and in Alaska, we recognize that our small business sector is one of the greatest strengths of our prosperous State; and WHEREAS, from mom-and-pop shops to high-tech startups or...

WHEREAS, Denim Day originated in April 1999 as a symbol of protest in response to an Italian high court decision to overturn a rape conviction because the victim was wearing tight denim pants; and WHEREAS, Denim Day is intended to draw attention to the fact that rape...

WHEREAS, throughout our country, millions of people of all ages and from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds are victimized by crime each year; and WHEREAS, those who have fallen victim to crime are not always identified or open about their experiences, and...

WHEREAS, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson worked tirelessly to advocate for the values of education, morality, and civic duty throughout his life, and in 1978, the United States Congress validated Rabbi Schneerson’s efforts with the proclamation of Education and...

WHEREAS, spring in Alaska brings the potential for devastating floods caused by ice jams in rivers, coastal storm surges, high precipitation, and rapid thawing of winter snow and ice that endangers lives, property, and community economies along major waterways; and...

WHEREAS, situations that require the assistance of law enforcement, firefighters, or emergency medical responders can occur at any time; and WHEREAS, when an emergency occurs, the quick response of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics is critical to...

WHEREAS, for nearly two and a half centuries, men and women in the United States Armed Forces have served our Nation with courage, honor, devotion, and sacrifice; and WHEREAS, on this day in 1942, the largest number of Americans to ever surrender were captured by...

WHEREAS, children are our most precious resource, and the early years of a child’s life are fundamental for social and cognitive development; and WHEREAS, a brighter future for Alaska depends on the quality of early childhood experiences provided to our children...

WHEREAS, every child is entitled to love, care, security, and protection from abuse, exploitation, and neglect, and we must protect our children’s inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and WHEREAS, child abuse affects millions of children...

WHEREAS, Alaska is blessed with an abundance of wildlife and the State’s healthy wildlife populations have a significant impact on the Alaskan way of life; and WHEREAS, our State is notably home to all three species of North American bears, including approximately...

WHEREAS, Alaska is comprised of many languages, belief systems, and traditions, and this diversity strengthens the social fabric of our State; and WHEREAS, we respect the heritage and traditions of all cultures in our State and are proud of the assortment of...

WHEREAS, on the 23rd anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Alaskans are reminded that we must continue to work together to prevent sexual assault and increase public awareness of the support groups that provide resources to survivors and those at risk; and...

WHEREAS, every person is entitled to the inalienable right of being treated with dignity and compassion, and those who have stumbled should be given the opportunity to become contributing members of our Great State once again; and WHEREAS, approximately 70 million...

WHEREAS, the week of April 1-7, 2024, is National Public Health Week, and the theme for the week is “Protecting, Connecting, and Thriving: We Are All Public Health”; each day of the week has a unique theme, and this year’s themes are Civic Engagement, Healthy...

WHEREAS, many brave Alaskans serve in the United States military, and military members sacrifice time with their families and loved ones to protect the security and freedom of our Great Nation; and WHEREAS, Alaskans recognize and commend the children in our...

WHEREAS, throughout the history of our Great State and Nation, countless courageous individuals have bravely answered our Country’s call to patriotic duty; and WHEREAS, the Vietnam War lasted for almost two decades, making it one of the longest military conflicts in...

WHEREAS, emergency preparedness is critical for survival in times of crisis, and as one of the world’s most seismically-active regions, Alaska is highly susceptible to earthquakes; and WHEREAS, of the 20 largest earthquakes in United States history, over half of them...

WHEREAS, emergency preparedness at State, regional, and local levels is extremely vital for survival in times of crisis; and WHEREAS, Alaska is one of the world’s most seismically active regions and has the most coastline of any U.S. state, and its coastlines contain...