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, Haida, and Tsimshian of Southeast Alaska, and each of these peoples have unique traditions and history; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska honors and recognizes the First People of our State and Nation – an important honor that is bestowed not only to elders and those who lived before, but to all Alaska Natives living today; and
WHEREAS, we value and respect the endurance of our great state’s different heritages through the cultivation of traditional languages, cultural beliefs, oral narratives, the arts, and subsistence lifestyles, and we appreciate the important work of elders and culture-bearers who share the knowledge of the past with Alaska’s youth and work to preserve that heritage for the future; and
WHEREAS, it is crucial that these cultures continue to thrive for future generations, and that the historical values continue to grow through the practicing of time-honored ceremonies, subsistence lifestyles, and the use and preservation of traditional languages; and
WHEREAS, renewing our interest and growth in cultural programs is vital to preserving Alaskan Native languages, dances, and arts, and to fostering understanding of the sophistication and complexity of Alaskan Native cultures; and
WHEREAS, from their service in the United States Armed Forces, to their vital role in Alaska’s economic future, to their dedication and contributions to artistic and literary endeavors, Alaskan Natives play a key role in Alaska’s prosperity; and
WHEREAS, by emphasizing the important background and traditions of Alaskan Native people, Alaska’s children can connect with the past and ensure a bright future, so, this month and throughout the year, we celebrate the traditions, languages, and stories of Native Alaskans and ensure their histories and contributions continue to be sustained with each passing generation.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim November 2022 as:
Alaskan Native Heritage Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to celebrate our Native cultures this month and throughout the year with appropriate respect, educational programs, and activities.
