Proclamations

WHEREAS, Alaska has a rich cultural history which includes the values of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders; and WHEREAS, the cultural diversity of our communities is made up of many languages, beliefs, and traditions which strengthen the social fabric of our...

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, Alaska’s extensive road systems provide some of the most beautiful views in the world, making 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, 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, foster parents, including kinship caregivers, face immense challenges, and display selfless courage...

WHEREAS, on April 28, 2022 the State of Israel and Jewish people around the world will commemorate Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. WHEREAS, we must never forget the horrific events of the Holocaust and must teach them to our children and never forget the six...

WHEREAS, Denim Day was created 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...

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

WHEREAS, for more than two 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 were captured during World War II’s Conquest of...

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

WHEREAS, the week of April 4-10, 2022, is National Public Health Week, and the theme is “Public Health is Where You Are”; providing a reminder that being supported and included within our social communities has a positive effect on our mental and physical wellbeing,...

WHEREAS, since territorial days, commercial fishing has been, and continues to be, a vital aspect of Alaska’s economy; and WHEREAS, following statehood, Alaska’s government quickly took on the role of regulating fisheries, protecting rural Alaska residents’ fisheries...

WHEREAS, children are our most precious resource. The early years of a child’s life are vital in shaping their learning and development; and WHEREAS, a bright future for Alaska depends on the quality of early childhood experiences provided to our children today. A...

WHEREAS, every person is endowed with human dignity and value. Those who have fallen should have the opportunity to become contributing members of our great nation; and WHEREAS, reentering society after incarceration can be a daunting and difficult transition and...

WHEREAS, this month marks the 21st anniversary of the first national observation of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. In 2000, in an effort to coordinate awareness and prevention efforts, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and the Resource Sharing...

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

WHEREAS, Alaskans recognize and appreciate the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women who defend our country against all enemies, foreign and domestic; and WHEREAS, children of military families face unique challenges and we appreciate their strength, courage,...

WHEREAS, April marks the start of the spring construction, gardening, and digging season for homeowners, landscapers, and construction companies; and WHEREAS, each year, Alaska’s underground utility infrastructure is jeopardized by unintentional damage by those who...

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 extremely vital for survival in times of crisis; and WHEREAS, as one of the world’s most seismically active regions, Alaska is highly vulnerable to earthquakes. Of the 20 largest earthquakes in United States history, 16 of them have...

WHEREAS, Don Young was first duly elected to the office of United States Representative for the State of Alaska on March 6, 1973; and WHEREAS, on November 3, 2020, Don Young was re-elected to serve a 25th term as the State of Alaska’s only representative to the United...

WHEREAS, emergency preparedness at state, regional, and local levels is extremely vital for survival in times of crisis; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s coastline contains many communities that are vulnerable to tsunamis generated by earthquakes and unstable slopes and is one...

WHEREAS, our Nation has been shaped by the actions of women of every race, class and ethnic background. Women play a critical economic, cultural and social role in every arena, representing a significant portion of the workforce; and WHEREAS, construction...

WHEREAS, every year traumatic brain injuries occur in the lives of more than 1.7 million Americans, and many have suffered lifelong disabilities; and WHEREAS, damage to the brain can result from a multitude of causes including falls, motor vehicle or sport accidents,...

WHEREAS, a rare disease or disorder is a physical condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people. Approximately 25 million people in the United States and 400 million worldwide are affected by Rare Diseases and Disorders; andWHEREAS, there are many different causes...

WHEREAS, Elizabeth Wanamaker Peratrovich, an Alaska Native woman of the Tlingit Nation, set Alaska on the path of ensuring that every man, woman, and child is afforded equal opportunity and protection from discrimination. Leaving a permanent mark on Alaska’s history,...

WHEREAS, President Ronald Wilson Reagan was a prominent leader who was dedicated to representing American values on the national and global scale; andWHEREAS, President Reagan was a unique blend of great charisma and integrity. He reshaped national politics with his...

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

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

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 Alaskan children should have access to the highest quality education possible; andWHEREAS, the State of Alaska recognizes the important role that effective education plays in preparing children to be productive and successful adults. Educational...

WHEREAS, this year marks 49 years since the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade, and we join with many in our nation and our state to grieve promise and futures lost; andWHEREAS, as a state, we must resolve to protect innocent human life at every...

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

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

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

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

WHEREAS, Jim Varsos, widely known as Hobo Jim, was born in 1952 in Indiana. Raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Hobo Jim had a love for music from a young age, and picked up the guitar at age 12; andWHEREAS, his lifelong dream of becoming a country musician led him to move...

WHEREAS, the United States of America and the State of Alaska had a duty to resolve the land claims of the Alaska Native peoples, and the settlement of those claims was integral to the future of Alaska and the country. The discovery of oil at Prudhoe Bay in 1968...

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 a price. Our Nation has...

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, nearly one out of ten small businesses across the United States are veteran owned - from Main Street store fronts to virtual high-tech startups that advance America, veteran owned small businesses are a pillar of our economy and contribute to the foundation...

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 when medicine and technology have helped us live longer. However, despite these advances,...

WHEREAS, Alaska is a culturally rich and diverse land, from 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...

WHEREAS, the health, safety, and education of all Alaska’s children is fundamental to the happiness, success, and well-being of Alaska’s families and communities; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s youth can have enriched academic careers when they are provided an array of...

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, however the formal transfer did not officially occur...

Alaska Day, Oct. 18, is a State holiday, celebrating the anniversary of the transfer of the Territory of Alaska from Russia to the U.S. on Oct. 18, 1867. Alaska was purchased by the U.S. from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million on March 30,1867. Alaska’s territorial...

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, 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, Alaskans living in the Last Frontier are challenged daily by all types of weather emergencies and must be prepared when they strike; and WHEREAS, Alaskan winters bring unique beauty and recreational opportunities. As snow and ice blanket the landscape,...

WHEREAS, the construction industry is one of the largest in our nation, employing more than five 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, fire safety and prevention are of utmost importance for every Alaskan. Each year, fires cause devastating personal injury and property loss throughout our state; and WHEREAS, in 2020, there were 861 residential structures fires reported in Alaska, resulting...

WHEREAS, craftsmanship and ingenuity is imbedded in the legacy of the Last Frontier and has helped shape this 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, all Alaskans deserve to be safe in their homes and communities. Domestic Violence is widespread and devastating to many Alaskan families, and it is crucial that we combat these crimes; and WHEREAS, the physical and emotional scars of domestic violence affect...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s many road systems and trails provide some of the most breathtaking views in the world, making Alaska an excellent location for travel via bicycles and walking; and WHEREAS, biking and walking are healthy and eco-friendly transportation options,...

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

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 a vital 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 an...

WHEREAS, today marks 20 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, 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, the honorable servicemen and women of the Coast Guard have been America’s maritime...

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

WHEREAS, Muscular Dystrophy is a group of hereditary genetic disorders characterized by the weakening and wasting of muscle structures that vary in inheritance pattern, age of onset, initial areas of affliction, and progression; and WHEREAS, Muscular Dystrophy is not...

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 guard members train and stand ready to...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s state road system spans over 5,600 miles, with many communities not connected to the national highway system; and WHEREAS, the National Transit Assistance Program celebrated the Nation's very first Rural Transit Day on July 16, 2019; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, over 200 years ago, a group of visionaries, our founding fathers, set out to establish a new and independent nation, one like no other, based on the philosophies of a representative democracy - affirming and safeguarding each citizen’s right to pursue their...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s extensive road systems provide the ability for necessary transportation of Alaskans and visitors, who routinely travel for work, school, and pleasure, with the reasonable expectation of respectful and attentive treatment from fellow drivers; and...

WHEREAS, 50 years ago, on July 1, 1971 DEC was created by the Legislature with a mission to conserve, improve, and protect Alaska’s natural resources and environment to enhance the health, safety, economic, and social well-being of Alaskans; and WHEREAS, before the...

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

WHEREAS, Alaska’s youth are the future of our Great State, and it is vital for us to provide them with the educational opportunities necessary to achieve their full potential; and WHEREAS, one such opportunity is Lemonade Day, a national program offering our children...

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, pollination plays a vital role in the health of our forests, grasslands, and...

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska celebrates Juneteenth, a blending of “June” and “nineteenth,” on the third Saturday in June, which is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States; and WHEREAS, this commemoration dates back to June...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s vast natural environment includes terrestial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems supporting native populations of wild plants, fish and wildlife, as well as cultivated crops and livestock; and WHEREAS, the introduction and spread of harmful non-native...

WHEREAS, on June 3, 1942, World War II arrived in Alaska. On this fateful day, six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Dutch Harbor on Amaknak Island was bombed by Japanese “Kate” bombers from two of their aircraft carriers, marking the first aerial attack by an...

WHEREAS, Alaska is known for its expansive landscapes and people from all over the world travel 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, generations of brave, selfless, patriotic men and women serving in the military, have given their lives protecting and defending our nation; and WHEREAS, each year on the last Monday in May, Americans pause to observe Memorial Day, set aside as a National...

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

WHEREAS, since 1966, Alaska has recognized Arbor Day as a day to appreciate one of our greatest resources, 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...

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. We carry on this tradition of recognition and remembrance as a demonstration of honor...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s vast expanses of wildlands serve as habitat for fish and wildlife, provide abundant recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, are home to extensive timber resources, and enrich our Alaskan lifestyle; and WHEREAS, wildland fires are a...

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

WHEREAS, nurses are a critical part of health care in Alaska, and the men and women who choose this field of work are devoted, professional, and expertly trained. They bring compassion, understanding, and comfort to patients while using their advanced medical...

WHEREAS, agriculture plays an integral role in the success of every civilization, and was instrumental to the settlement of Alaska. From early Russian trading posts to the settlers of the Tanana Valley, Alaskan frontiersman have always seen the potential for...

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, the number of older Americans who call Alaska home continues to rise; enriching our communities through their experiences and sharing their strength and resilience; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s older people are esteemed members of our society, and their wealth of...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s extensive road systems provide some of the most magnificent views in the world, making 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, 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, Alaskans are committed to overseeing and maintaining the safety and economic value of the homes, buildings, and infrastructure that serve our citizens in everyday life and in times of natural disaster; and WHEREAS, our confidence in the structural integrity...

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

WHEREAS, Alaska is renowned for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and thousands of miles of coastline and Alaskans thrive in, and appreciate, the unique outdoor opportunities life in the Last Frontier provides; and WHEREAS, residents and visitors enjoy endless...

WHEREAS, historic preservation is an effective tool for managing growth and development, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride, and maintaining community character while enhancing livability; and WHEREAS, historic preservation is relevant for communities...

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, foster parents, including kinship caregivers, face enormous challenges, and display selfess courage...

WHEREAS, Denim Day was created 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...

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

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

WHEREAS, children are our most precious resource. The early years of a child’s life are vital in shaping their learning and development; and WHEREAS, a bright future for Alaska depends on the quality of early childhood experiences provided to our children today. A...

WHEREAS, for more than two 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 were captured during World War II’s Conquest of...

WHEREAS, the week of April 5-11, 2021, is National Public Health Week, and the theme is “Building Bridges to Better Health”; providing a reminder to create opportunities to enhance the foundation of our well-being by educating the public, policy makers, and healthcare...

WHEREAS, since territorial days, commercial fishing has been, and continues to be, a vital aspect of Alaska’s economy; and WHEREAS, following statehood, Alaska’s government quickly took on the role of regulating fisheries, protecting rural Alaska residents’ fisheries...

WHEREAS, Alaskans appreciate the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women who defend our country against all enemies, foreign and domestic; and WHEREAS, children of military families face unique challenges and we appreciate their strength and sacrifice as they...

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

WHEREAS, this month marks the 20th anniversary of the first national observation of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. In 2000, in an effort to coordinate awareness and prevention efforts, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and the Resource Sharing...