Proclamations

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...

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. Approximately 30 million people in the United States and 400 million worldwide are affected by Rare Diseases and Disorders; and WHEREAS, there are many different causes...

WHEREAS, born July 4, 1911, in Petersburg, Alaska, 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 for two terms as the 40th President of the United States, reshaping national politics with his...

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, all Alaskans have the right to healthy and safe relationships, and it is of utmost importance that adequate education about healthy relationships be available to Alaska’s youth, as well as shelter and assistance for those who are experiencing abuse; and...

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,...

WHEREAS, in 1976, as Americans celebrated the national bicentennial, President Gerald Ford urged the Nation to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history” and, for the...

WHEREAS, all children in Alaska should have access to the highest quality education possible; and WHEREAS, the State of Alaska recognizes the important role that an effective education plays in preparing all students in Alaska to be successful adults; and WHEREAS, we...

WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream of broadening equality and justice for all helped advance our Nation and redirect the conversation about race for generations of Americans; and WHEREAS, born during a time of heightened racial discrimination and oppression...

WHEREAS, protecting the safety and wellbeing of all Alaskans is the first priority and highest calling of the State of Alaska, and it is important that all citizens know and understand the duties and responsibilities of their law enforcement officers and agencies; and...

WHEREAS, human trafficking is modern day slavery with an estimated 27.6 million people affected globally, and with cases being reported in every U.S. state and territory; and WHEREAS, human traffickers lure their victims with promises of honest work opportunities,...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s youth are Alaska’s future, and it is essential that we strengthen and challenge their minds through effective mentoring; and WHEREAS, a mentor dedicates time to a young person to help them develop personal strengths and reach their full potential...

WHEREAS, starting in 1988 and recognized annually on December 1st, World AIDS Day is a global event to remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS, and to honor and support those living with and affected by HIV; and WHEREAS, in 2023, we mark the 35th...

WHEREAS, December 7, 2023, marks the 82nd anniversary of the attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and WHEREAS, this military assault claimed the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers and citizens and wounded over a thousand more, and the resulting...

WHEREAS, Computer Science Education Week highlights the crucial role that computer science plays in our society and how computer science increases social interaction, enables innovation, and creates economic opportunities; and WHEREAS, the field of computer science is...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s children are our future, and every child deserves to experience the security and love of a stable home; and WHEREAS, on an average day, thousands of Alaskan children are unable to remain safely in their homes and as of October 2023, 2,600 Alaskan...

WHEREAS, Apprenticeship Week is celebrating its 9th 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 good, quality...

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 do not come without sacrifice. As a Nation...

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 made up 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 affects memory, thinking, decision-making, and behavioral processes, and hinders the cognitive ability to care for oneself, eventually leading to...

WHEREAS, all Alaskans, regardless of age, ability, or location deserve access to the wide variety of health care options in Alaska; and WHEREAS, we are blessed to live in a time in which medicine and technology allow us to live longer; however, despite these advances,...

WHEREAS, veterans own nearly one out of ten of all U.S. companies, employing over five million people and issuing nearly $200 billion in paychecks each year. From Main Street store fronts to virtual high-tech startups that advance America, veteran-owned small...

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 all Alaska’s children is essential to the happiness, success, and well-being of Alaska’s families and communities; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s youth can have enriched academic experiences when they are offered diverse...

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 assault on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, Alaska Territorial...

WHEREAS, on October 18, 1867, Alaska officially became a United States Territory after the formal transfer from Russia; and WHEREAS, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million in March of 1867, although the formal transfer did not officially occur...

WHEREAS, craftsmanship and ingenuity is embedded in the legacy of the Last Frontier and has has helped shape our great state into what it is today; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s breathtaking size, natural beauty, bountiful resources, and strategic location are the envy of the...

WHEREAS, Alaskan winters bring distinct beauty and recreational opportunities. Once snow and ice cover the landscape, people in Alaska can ski, snowboard, snow machine, snow shoe, climb or skate on ice, and engage in many other winter activities; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s...

WHEREAS, entrepreneurs and startup businesses play a vital role in the growth and expansion of Alaska’s economy, creating new businesses and jobs throughout our city, state, and country; and WHEREAS, entrepreneurs demonstrate resiliency, passion, and the ability to...

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, Alaska’s extensive road and trail networks showcase some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, making our state an ideal destination for biking and walking, which are healthy and are enjoyed as environmentally friendly transportation options; and...

WHEREAS, fire safety and prevention are of utmost importance for every Alaskan. Each year, fires cause devastating personal injury and property loss across our state; and WHEREAS, in 2022, there were 823 residential structures fires reported in Alaska, resulting in 20...

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 we combat these crimes; and WHEREAS, the physical and emotional wounds of domestic violence affect men,...

WHEREAS, Alaska continues the expansion of broadband and other critical infrastructure for all Alaskans and Alaskans continue to leverage information systems and technology to support financial services, energy, telecommunications, transportation, utilities, health...

WHEREAS, keeping Alaskan families and communities healthy is of utmost importance and directly impacts the success of our great state as a whole. It is vital for the safety and well-being of Alaskans to have access to a variety of treatment options; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, the construction industry is one of the largest in our nation, employing more than 11 million individuals in the U.S., and construction professionals play a critical role in Alaska’s economy and development; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s world class system of Joint...

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, but it also includes nuclear, natural gas, and carbon...

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...

WHEREAS, Blue Star Families seeks to empower military families by connecting them with their neighbors, individuals and organizations to help create vibrant communities of mutual support; and WHEREAS, we recognize the 600,00 active-duty and transitioning military...

WHEREAS, Alaska is abundant in 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 critical to the state’s economic and social well-being and...

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

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

WHEREAS, throughout American history, generations of military servicemen and women have epitomized 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, today marks 22 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 create discord in our Great Nation, Americans responded by banding together in a...

WHEREAS, protecting the health and wellness of 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 death...

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, 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 effectiveness and need for affordable, accessible, and high-quality substance abuse treatment; and WHEREAS, substance abuse and co-occurring mental disorders and co-existing physical illnesses are...

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, pediatric cancer is the...

WHEREAS, fentanyl is a high-addictive synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, and 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 the...

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

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

WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy numerous outdoors 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 utilize 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, but National Guard members stand ready to...

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 as the reliance on rural transit has grown, so, too, has the...

WHEREAS, some 247 years ago, a group of visionaries – our founding fathers – set out to establish 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 to travel for work, school, and pleasure with the reasonable expectation of respectful and attentive treatment from fellow drivers; and WHEREAS, impaired driving remains a...

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, Alaska has an abundance of plant and animal species that enhance the natural beauty of our great state, and contribute to the health of our ecosystems and industries; and WHEREAS, pollinator species, such as bees, birds, butterflies, bats, beetles, and...

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 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 the Last Frontier; and WHEREAS, the...

WHEREAS, the scenic mountains, meadows, rivers, and coastal bays of Alaska are prized for their diverse and abundant wild plants, fish, and wildlife; and WHEREAS, Alaskans rely on native flora and fauna, cultivated crops, and local livestock to feed their families,...

WHEREAS, on June 3, 1942, six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, World War II arrived in Alaska as 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, an abundance of recreational...

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

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

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

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

WHEREAS, children are Alaska’s most valuable asset, and high 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...

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, public servants play a critical role in providing and supporting the framework within which Alaska’s schools, businesses, and communities can thrive; and WHEREAS, Alaska is home to thousands of federal, state, and local public servants who work tirelessly...

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, the prerequisites of nursing include a commitment to selfless...

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, public servants play a critical role in providing and supporting the framework within which Alaska’s schools, businesses, and communities can thrive; and WHEREAS, Alaska is home to thousands of federal, state, and local public servants who work tirelessly...

WHEREAS, general public and firefighter safety is a priority within wildland fire management, and several agencies and organizations in Alaska share a common goal of providing protection while preserving and enhancing the health of forests and wetlands; and WHEREAS,...

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, the prerequisites of nursing include a commitment to selfless...

WHEREAS, all Alaskans have the right to safety and justice, and the elevated rates of missing and murdered Indigenous persons (MMIP) in Alaska continues to be an issue; and WHEREAS, in 2021, Alaska reported 229 cases of missing and murdered Indigenous persons – 149...

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 and has inspired...

WHEREAS, from farmers feeding the miners of the 1800s gold rush to feeding the settlers of the Tanana Valley, Alaskan agricultural frontiersman have been instrumental in the development of sustainable Alaskan communities; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s 1,050 farms provide...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s extensive road system provides some of the most beautiful views in the world and make Alaska an ideal location for motorcycle and motor scooter use; and WHEREAS, many registered motorcyclists, who undergo extensive training and testing in order to...

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 hopes and aspirations of our young...

WHEREAS, Alaska offers spectacular scenery for biking and recreation on a multitude of roads and trails; and WHEREAS, May is National Bike Month, sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists, and is celebrated in communities from coast to coast; and WHEREAS,...

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

WHEREAS, one in 25 adults today live with a variety of mental health disorders and illnesses, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, and a growing number of other debilitating behavioral health conditions; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, the children of Alaska are our most precious resource, and every child deserves a safe, loving, and stable home in which to grow, learn, and play; and WHEREAS, children in our communities that must be temporarily removed from their home to address their...

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, Alaska has a rich cultural history that includes the values of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders; and WHEREAS, the culture of our communities is comprised of many languages, beliefs, and traditions that strengthen the social fabric of our diverse state;...

WHEREAS, the number of older Americans who call Alaska home continues to rise, and those individuals benefit our communities by sharing their experience, strength, and resiliency; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s older people are esteemed members of our society, and their wealth...