Proclamations

WHEREAS, brave men and women, both professional and volunteer, serving as police officers, firefighters, corrections officers, paramedics, EMTs, 911 dispatchers and operators, search and rescue teams, and others in public safety answer the call as first responders in...

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 health, safety, and education of Alaska’s children are fundamental to the happiness, success, and well-being of Alaska’s families and communities; and WHEREAS, when offered an array of opportunities tailored to their needs, Alaska’s youth can flourish...

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 on December 7, 1941, Alaska...

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, the Constitution of the United States, through the First Amendment, secures for every citizen the right to speak freely, to assemble peaceably, and to engage in open and honest debate, which are the foundations of liberty and a republican form of government;...

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

WHEREAS, Alaskan winters offer 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 Alaska struggles with an epidemic of domestic violence and sexual assault, and violence exists in many of Alaska’s homes and communities, and threatens the futures of too many of our children, their families, our culture and our state; and WHEREAS, all...

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, there has...

WHEREAS, fires cause devastating personal injury and property loss throughout Alaska; and WHEREAS, fire poses a serious threat to public safety, with individuals facing the greatest risk in their or own homes or in the homes of others: and WHEREAS, in 2024, there were...

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

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, 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, the construction industry is one of the Nation’s largest sectors, employing eight million individuals in the United States, with construction professionals playing a pivotal role in Alaska’s economic growth and development; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s world-class...

WHEREAS, entrepreneurs and small businesses play a vital role in the economic success of our cities, State, and Country; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s entrepreneurial ecosystem helps foster innovation and economic growth allowing communities to preserve their unique culture...

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

WHEREAS, Alaska is blessed with a diversity of wildlife and wide-ranging landscapes that offer bountiful resources; and WHEREAS, the heritage of big game hunting and sport fishing are essential to the State’s economic and social well-being and are deeply rooted in the...

WHEREAS, Centenarian’s Day is a day to celebrate and honor those who have reached the age of 100 or more; and WHEREAS, this is a day to celebrate those among us who have lived an entire century and to share in their wisdom, work experience, community contributions and...

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, Alaska is filled with more sustainable energy potential than nearly any place on earth. That potential includes generation from renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydro, tidal, biomass, geothermal, and hydrogen sources, but it also includes nuclear, oil,...

WHEREAS, quality forensic science plays an essential role in the criminal justice system by providing impartial, scientific information that helps to solve crimes, from exonerating the innocent to identifying the guilty; and WHEREAS, forensic science plays a critical...

WHEREAS, education is the foundation for individual opportunity, family stability and community prosperity, and adult education and family literacy programs play a vital role in ensuring that all Alaskans have the tools they need to succeed; and WHEREAS, Alaska Adult...

WHEREAS, today marks 24 years since the American people faced the worst terrorist attack on United States soil on September 11, 2001; and WHEREAS, although the attacks were intended to divide our Great Nation, Americans responded by joining together in a remarkable...

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 essential 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...

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 sufficient 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 related physical illnesses are significant public health...

WHEREAS, our children are our most precious resource, and their well-being is vital to a bright future for Alaska; and WHEREAS, cancer is a life-altering diagnosis for anyone, and its impact is felt more profoundly when it touches a child and their family; and...

WHEREAS, Alaska is a state rich in energy with an abundance of natural resources and remains committed to their responsible development to promote long-term prosperity for all Alaskans; and WHEREAS, hydropower continues to play a vital role in Alaska’s energy...

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, the United States Coast Guard has bravely 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 Coast...

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

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, many Alaskans rely on and take pride in the ability to use firearms to feed and protect their families, which...

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 has celebrated Rural Transit Day since July 16, 2020, focusing 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 increased, so has the need to...

WHEREAS, 249 years ago a group of pioneers, 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 their own...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s extensive highway 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...

Under the authority of Article II, Section 9, and Article III, Section 17, Constitution of the State of Alaska, and in the public interest, I call the Thirty-Fourth Legislature of the State of Alaska into its first special session in Juneau, Alaska, in the legislative...

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, 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, 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, and other pollinator species provide substantial...

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 magnificent views and diverse wildlife the Last Frontier has to offer; and WHEREAS, throughout Alaska’s changing seasons, an abundance of recreational...

WHEREAS, Alaska summers offer longer days and abundant opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends; and WHEREAS, barbecuing is one such opportunity, being a distinctly American pastime that embodies the spirit of summer, bringing together loved ones...

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 component of public health and safety, 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...

WHEREAS, Alaska offers an abundance of 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...

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 uphold this tradition of recognition and remembrance as a demonstration of...

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 uphold this tradition of recognition and remembrance as a demonstration of...

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

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

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, all Alaskans have the right to safety and justice, and the rates of missing and murdered Indigenous persons (MMIP) in Alaska is a problem that is actively being addressed; and WHEREAS, Alaska Native women are overrepresented in the domestic violence victim...

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

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, it is our responsibility 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 should demonstrate our understanding of the dreams and goals of our young...

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, encouraging...

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

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

WHEREAS, Alaskan seniors, who numbered 160,906 in 2024, 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, Alaska’s road systems provides some of the most breathtaking views in the world, making Alaska an exceptional location for motorcycle and motor scooter use; and WHEREAS, numerous registered motorcyclists, who undergo extensive training and testing to obtain a...

WHEREAS, mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act, as well as how we handle stress, connect to others, and make decisions; and WHEREAS, one in four 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 daily life and when disasters strike; and WHEREAS, our confidence in the resilience of these buildings...

WHEREAS, Alaska has a rich cultural history that includes the values of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders; and WHEREAS, the languages, beliefs, and traditions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders enrich our communities and our State; and WHEREAS, we respect...

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 essential for purifying air,...

WHEREAS, Alaska offers breathtaking landscapes for biking and recreation on a multitude of scenic roads and trails, and bike-friendly communities offer abundant opportunities for residents and visitors to explore the State on two wheels, from urban paths in cities to...

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, 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 prompt response of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics is imperative...

WHEREAS, each Alaskan Spring 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, 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, 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, the week of April 7-13, 2025, is National Public Health Week, and the theme for the week is “It Starts Here: Your Health is Our Mission”; each day of the week has a unique theme, and this year’s themes are Climate Action: Championing Resilience for Health,...

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

WHEREAS, on the 24th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Alaskans are reminded that we must keep working 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 endowed with human dignity and value, and those who have fallen should be given the opportunity to become contributing members of our Great State once again; and WHEREAS, approximately 80 million Americans have a criminal record, with 4,400...

WHEREAS, many 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 Nation; and WHEREAS, Alaskans recognize and commend the children in our communities who show...

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 that strengthen the social fabric of our State; and WHEREAS, we respect the heritage and traditions of all cultures in our communities and we are proud to be Alaskans with diverse...

WHEREAS, throughout the history of Alaska and the 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 United...

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

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...

WHEREAS, our Nation has been shaped by the actions of women of every socioeconomic background and women play a role in every field of professional employment, representing a significant portion of the workforce; and WHEREAS, construction professionals play a critical...

WHEREAS, developmental disabilities affect more than an estimated 11,600 Alaskan children, adults, and families; and WHEREAS, a developmental disability is a lifelong, chronic mental or physical impairment that manifests itself before a person reaches the age of 22,...

WHEREAS, as one of the Nation’s oldest and most recognized humanitarian organizations, the American Red Cross has long been a symbol of the compassion and selflessness that defines the American way of life; and WHEREAS, the American Red Cross provides care to those in...

WHEREAS, a rare disease or disorder is a physical condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people. There are over 10,000 rare diseases that together affect approximately 30 million Americans; and WHEREAS, there are many different causes of rare diseases and...

WHEREAS, born in Petersburg, Alaska, on July 4, 1911, Elizabeth Peratrovich was an Alaska Native woman of the Tlingit nation who was instrumental in the campaign against ending the discrimination that plagued the Alaska territory, and in doing so, she left a permanent...

WHEREAS, President Ronald Wilson Reagan was a prominent leader who was dedicated to representing American values on a global scale; and WHEREAS, President Reagan served two terms as the 40th President of the United States, reshaping national politics with his vision...

WHEREAS, the well-being of Alaskans is of the utmost importance, and is greatly enhanced through increased awareness of possible threats to personal health; and WHEREAS, cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide, and in Alaska, cancer has been the leading...

WHEREAS, in the Great State of Alaska, we strive towards the betterment of our citizens and look to provide every individual with access to quality educational opportunities; and WHEREAS, career and technical education (CTE) provides students with the knowledge,...