Proclamations

WHEREAS, throughout American history, generations of military servicemen and women have embodied devotion and patriotism by sacrificing their own personal safety to protect our country, our people, and our freedom; and WHEREAS, too many of these brave patriots were...

WHEREAS, September 17, 2020, marks the 233rd anniversary of the framing of the Constitution of the United States of America by the Constitutional Convention; and WHEREAS, on this day, we reflect on the relevance and importance of the Constitution, and the impact it...

WHEREAS, on September 11, 2001, the American people endured the worst terrorist attack on United States soil in the nation’s history; and WHEREAS, while the attacks were meant to divide our great nation, Americans responded by standing together in a remarkable display...

WHEREAS, every Alaskan life is precious, and the State of Alaska is committed to nurturing and cultivating healthy communities and creating opportunities for all Alaskans; and WHEREAS, Alaska's suicide rate is twice the national average, impacting both urban and rural...

WHEREAS, suicide is a national public health challenge that causes immeasurable pain among individuals, families, and communities across the country; and WHEREAS, the number of Veteran and Military suicides has exceeded 6,000 each year from 2008-2017; and WHEREAS,...

WHEREAS, every day, many Alaskans prove that recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders is possible. At the same time, many more continue to struggle with addiction; and WHEREAS, addiction to alcohol and other drugs can trap anyone, from our neighbors to our...

WHEREAS although both men and women worked together to build our great Nation, the fundamental right to have a voice in government was not allotted to women in the United States for centuries; and WHEREAS, the decades-long public fight for women’s right to vote began...

WHEREAS, Alaskans all around the state rely on the availability of energy for heating, electricity, and transportation. Access to alternative energy is especially important for Alaska’s rural communities, where utility costs are typically high; and WHEREAS, many of...

WHEREAS, for over 50 years, community health centers have provided high-quality, affordable health care in our nation’s underserved communities, demonstrating that locally- governed health care can improve lives while lowering costs; and WHEREAS, community health...

WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy countless 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...

WHEREAS, since before the start of 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...

WHEREAS, on July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure the civil rights of people with disabilities; and WHEREAS, this legislation established a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the...

WHEREAS, the United States of America was born on the principles that all people have natural rights - freedom from tyranny, a life of equal opportunity, and personal happiness; and WHEREAS, Alaska and her people embody the spirit of the American Dream through their...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s roadways provide the ability for necessary transportation for Alaskans and visitors, who routinely travel for work, school, and pleasure, with the justifiable expectation of respectful and considerate treatment from fellow drivers; and WHEREAS,...

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 that offers our...

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is grateful 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 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 is blessed with many indigenous plants that color its great landscape, abundant wildlife that provides residents with bountiful and life-sustaining resources, and native species that support the delicate balance of our functioning ecosystems; and...

WHEREAS, on June 2, 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; and WHEREAS, the pilots expected...

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, America was founded on the principles of liberty, opportunity, and justice for all, and we recognize the men and women of our Armed Forces who have valiantly defended these values throughout our nation’s history; and WHEREAS, each year on the last Monday in...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s abundant resources and vast lands provide both great opportunity and quality of life for all Alaskans; and WHEREAS, since 1966, Alaska has recognized Arbor Day as a day to appreciate one of Alaska’s greatest resources, and to highlight the importance...

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, 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 seen the potential for agriculture and...

WHEREAS, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week of May 15 as Police Week. We carry on this tradition of recognition and remembrance as a demonstration of honor and respect for...

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

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 which are an essential component of our nation’s economic and national...

WHEREAS, faith has played a significant role in American history, inspiring many to seek unity through such tradition as days of prayer and reflections; and WHEREAS, many Alaskans have been strengthened, assured, and lifted up through prayer. Leaders and citizens of...

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, 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, every child deserves a safe, loving, and stable home in which to grow, learn, and play; and WHEREAS, many children in our communities are in crisis and must be temporarily removed from their homes to ensure that the child’s physical and emotional needs are...

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is home to a growing number of older Americans who enrich communities through their wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and vast experiences; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s older people are esteemed members of our society, and their wealth of knowledge,...

WHEREAS, Alaskans are committed to recognizing that our growth and strength depends on the safety and economic value of the homes, buildings and infrastructure that serve our citizens, both in everyday life and in times of natural disaster; and WHEREAS, our confidence...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s many road systems provide some of the most breathtaking 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 in order to...

WHEREAS, Alaska is known 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 opportunities...

WHEREAS, aviation is an integral and 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 all-season access for commerce, transportation, emergency medical services,...

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim April 19 – 25, 2020 as: Crime Victims’ Rights Week in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to join in making Alaska the safest in the country, and do our part to ensure victims of crime are supported, protected, and given proper assistance to heal as they look toward a hopeful future.

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, the World Health Organization first designated the outbreak of COVID-19 as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on January 30, 2020 and went on to declare the exponential growth and occurrence of the virus as a pandemic on March 11, 2020; and...

WHEREAS, the men and women of America’s armed forces remain steadfast, determined, and engaged as they face the enemies of liberty and freedom; and WHEREAS, throughout our nation’s history, our courageous service members have faithfully stepped forward to defend...

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, Alaska is blessed with an abundance of wildlife and healthy wildlife populations have a positive impact on the Alaskan way of life; and WHEREAS, our state is notably home to all three species of North American bears, including approximately 100,000 black bear...

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, 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, the United States Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) was established in 1916 and has expanded into one of the world’s largest character development and citizenship programs for youth; and WHEREAS, the mission of JROTC is to motivate young...

WHEREAS, many brave Alaskans serve in our military and sacrifice time with their families to protect the security and freedom of our great nation; and WHEREAS, Alaskans recognize and appreciate the military children in our communities who show courage, strength, and...

WHEREAS, throughout the history of our Great State and Nation, countless courageous individuals have bravely answered the call to patriotic duty; and WHEREAS, Vietnam veterans endured unspeakable hardships and endangered their lives fighting for our American values...

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, emergency preparedness is extremely vital for survival in times of crisis; and WHEREAS, as one of the world’s most seismically active regions, Alaska’s coastline contains many communities that are vulnerable to tsunamis. Sixteen of the 20 largest earthquakes...

WHEREAS, as one of the nation’s oldest and most recognized humanitarian organizations, the American Red Cross is woven tightly into the fabric of Alaskan life. The American Red Cross is best known for providing compassionate care when disasters and other crises...

WHEREAS, developmental disabilities affect more than an estimated 11,500 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, access to arts education enhances the development of Alaskan youth, by providing them with the opportunity to cultivate and express their imagination and creativity; and WHEREAS, arts education encompasses dance, drama, music, theatre, literary, and visual...

WHEREAS, according to the Center for Disease Control, a rare disease is a condition that, alone, affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States. Collectively, rare diseases affect approximately 30 million people in the United States, and 400 million worldwide;...

WHEREAS, President Ronald Wilson Reagan, a man of humble background, led the American people with great integrity and charisma. He reshaped national politics with his vision to make a more prosperous, stronger, and safer country; and WHEREAS, Ronald Reagan served with...

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

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, January 27, 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi death and concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in Nazi-occupied Poland; and WHEREAS, Auschwitz-Birkenau, also known as Auschwitz II, one of the most striking symbols of terror and...

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 effective education plays in preparing children to be productive, successful adults. Educational...

WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream of advancing equality and justice for all people helped shape our nation and redirect the dialogue about race for future generations of Americans; and WHEREAS, born in 1929, during a time of heightened racial discrimination...

WHEREAS, the safety and wellbeing of every Alaskan is the first priority and highest calling of the State of Alaska; and WHEREAS, we are honored to stand by Alaska’s dedicated law enforcement professionals who, day after day, safeguard our families and communities,...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s youth are the future of this great state and it is important that we strengthen and challenge their minds through effective mentoring; and WHEREAS, a mentor is a reliable presence who dedicates time to a young person to help them develop personal...

WHEREAS, December 7, 2019, marks the 78th anniversary of the surprise attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and WHEREAS, on this day in 1941, a military assault took place on the U.S. Naval Base at Pearl Harbor, claiming the lives of over 2,400 soldiers...

WHEREAS, the health and well-being of all Alaskans is essential for a bright future; and WHEREAS, human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is one of the most deadly infectious diseases, destroying the body’s ability to fight off infections and disease. HIV can lead to...

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; as of September 2019, 3,125 children...

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 a long and often unrecognized history of military service to our Nation, dating as far back as the American Revolution, proudly serving in unofficial capacities alongside, and in support of, our nation’s military; and WHEREAS, since the formation...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s Native people have fortified our great state with their traditions and values, enriching our land, and shaping our present-day culture; and WHEREAS, Alaska’s identity is knit together by many indigenous cultures and we celebrate their original...

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, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 2941, Alaska Territorial Governor and statesman Ernest Gruening instructed military officers to begin recruiting and enlisting volunteers to form the Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG), which would become the...

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, critical infrastructure sectors are increasingly reliant on information systems and technology to support financial services, energy, telecommunications, transportation, utilities, health care, and emergency response systems; and WHEREAS, cybercrime is a...

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 2018, there were 820 residential structure fires reported in Alaska, resulting in...

WHEREAS, the physical and emotional scars of domestic violence affect men, women, and children across our state in alarming numbers. The victims are robbed of their independence, freedom and security, and face unthinkable threats to their mental and physical health;...

WHEREAS, breast cancer is among the top three incidents of cancer in Alaska; and WHEREAS, one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Although significantly less common, men are also susceptible to developing breast cancer; and...

WHEREAS, the construction industry is one of the largest in our nation, employing more than seven 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 Join...

WHEREAS, Alaskan winters bring unique beauty and recreational opportunities. As snow and ice blanket the landscape, Alaskans and visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow machining, ice skating, and many other activities; and WHEREAS, winter weather in Alaska also...

WHEREAS, military families endure the pain of separation when a loved one is deployed, holding onto hope their family member will return home safely; and WHEREAS, beginning in World War I, families displayed a flag bearing a blue star for each member of the family...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s hunting and fishing heritage is essential to the state’s economic and social well-being, and is deeply embedded in the spirit and history of the people who live here; and WHEREAS, Alaska sets a positive example of wildlife management for the rest of...

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 devotion and patriotism by sacrificing their own personal safety to protect our country, our people, and our freedom; and WHEREAS, too many of these brave patriots were...

WHEREAS, September 17, 2019, marks the two hundred and thirty-second anniversary of the framing of the Constitution of the United States of America by the Constitutional Convention; and WHEREAS, on this day, we reflect on the magnitude of the relevance and importance...

WHEREAS, on September 11, 2001, the American people endured the worst terrorist attack on United States soil in the nation’s history, with courage and heroism; and WHEREAS, while the attacks were meant to divide our great nation, we responded by standing together in a...

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim September 9, 2019 as: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to abstain from alcohol consumption throughout the course of pregnancy, and to support pregnant family members, friends, and neighbors in their commitment to protect the next generation.

WHEREAS, Alaska’s children are our most precious resource and their well-being is integral to a bright future for our state; and WHEREAS, childhood cancer is especially tragic and is the number one disease causing the death of children in the United States. It spares...

WHEREAS, every day, many Alaskans prove that recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders is possible. At the same time, many more continue to struggle with addiction; and WHEREAS, addiction to alcohol and other drugs can trap anyone, from our neighbors to our...

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim September 8-14, 2019 as: Suicide Prevention Week in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to take this opportunity to speak up if they know someone who may be contemplating suicide, reach out to those who may be struggling after a loss, and reaffirm their commitment to community, family, and life.

WHEREAS, muscular dystrophy is a group of hereditary disorders characterized by a weakening and wasting away of muscles that vary in inheritance pattern, age of onset, initial muscles attacked, and rate of progression; and WHEREAS, all types of muscular dystrophies...

WHEREAS, since before the start of 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...

WHEREAS, Alaska’s roadways provide enjoyment and necessary transportation for Alaskans and visitors, who routinely travel for work, school, and pleasure, with the justifiable expectation of respectful and considerate treatment from fellow drivers; and WHEREAS, driving...

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

WHEREAS, each year on July 4, we celebrate the birth of our nation and the Declaration of Independence, recognizing our great country as an enduring symbol of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all; and WHEREAS, the Declaration of Independence – signed on July 4,...

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, Alaska is blessed with many indigenous plants that color its great landscape, abundant wildlife that provide residents with bountiful and life-sustaining resources, and native species that support the delicate balance of our functioning ecosystems; 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, The Alaska Constitution recognizes that our natural resources are meant for the common use and maximum benefit of all Alaskans; and WHEREAS a portion of this wealth has been set aside for future generations through the creation of the Permanent Fund,...

WHEREAS, on this day, 75 years ago, in the midst of World War II, one of the most important battles in history commenced; and WHEREAS, more than 160,000 brave soldiers, sailors, and airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force invaded the 50-mile stretch of the...

WHEREAS, although both men and women worked together to build our great Nation, the fundamental right to have a voice in government was not allotted to women in the United States for over a century; and WHEREAS, the decades-long fight for women’s right to vote began...

WHEREAS, on June 2, 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; and WHEREAS, the pilots expected...