Proclamations

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...

WHEREAS, the Anchorage Lions Club was established on June 6, 1944, and is the longest serving Lions Club in the State of Alaska; and WHEREAS, in the 1950s, the Anchorage Lions Club coordinated the delivery of the first ambulance to Anchorage. The “Big Red Wagon” was...

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, J. Sterling Morton established the first Arbor Day in 1872, in an effort to encourage people to practice conservation by planting trees; and WHEREAS, the purpose of Arbor Day has since been expanded to encourage the planting and care of trees across the...

WHEREAS, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are a vital public service. Access to quality emergency medical care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden and life-threatening illness or injury; and WHEREAS, serving as the...

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

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, mining was the primary driving force for early development of Alaska and has continued to play a vital role in our economy; and WHEREAS, from the Alaska Natives who mined and traded jade, to the sourdoughs who flooded north to pan for gold, to the engineers...

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

WHEREAS, aviation is a critical part of Alaskan 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, shipment of goods, and...

WHEREAS, Alaskans rely on durable residential, commercial, and institutional structures to shelter us as we live, work, and play. We are dedicated to ensuring our infrastructure is safe by continuing efforts to address critical safety issues in our homes and...

WHEREAS, Alaska is known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and thousands of miles of coastline, all providing endless opportunities for a wide variety of water-related activities enjoyed by Alaskans and visitors alike; and WHEREAS, swimming and aquatic-related...

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 elders are valuable members of society and Alaska is dedicated to strengthening...

WHEREAS, road systems in Alaska provide some of the most breathtaking views in the world, making Alaska an excellent location for motorcycle and motor scooter use; and WHEREAS, Alaska is home to many registered motorcyclists who undergo extensive training and testing...

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, millions of people of all ages and from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds are victims of crime each year in America; and WHEREAS, victims of crime do not always identify themselves, but include our friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, and...

WHEREAS, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability characterized by social and behavioral challenges and can result in lifelong impairment of an individual’s ability to learn, develop healthy interactive behaviors, or understand both verbal and nonverbal...

WHEREAS, April marks the start of the spring construction, gardening, and digging season for homeowners, landscapers, and construction companies; and WHEREAS, each year, due to failure to follow safe digging practices, Alaska’s underground utility infrastructure is...

WHEREAS, every Alaskan, regardless of age, race, culture, or status deserves to live free from harm and fear of sexual assault or abuse, and no one has the right to force, threaten, or manipulate anyone into sexual activity; and WHEREAS, sexual assault violates an...

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, public health services throughout Alaska are important to ensure that Alaskans have the opportunity to live stronger and longer in healthy and safe Alaskan communities; and WHEREAS, Public Health Week gives us the opportunity to enhance the foundation of our...

WHEREAS, every life is precious, Alaskan’s safety is the highest priority, and in times of natural disaster the loss of life leaves a devastating impact; and WHEREAS, March 27, 2019 marks the 55th anniversary of the Great Alaska Earthquake and subsequent tsunamis that...

WHEREAS, Alaska is the most seismically active region in the United States, and has endured 10 of the 15 largest earthquakes in U.S. history. Alaska also faced the world’s highest tsunami wave in recorded history at an approximated 1,720 feet. Alaska’s many coastal...

WHEREAS, every year traumatic brain injuries occur in the lives of more than 1.7 million Americans, and severe injuries have resulted in an estimated 5.3 million Americans living with lifelong disabilities; and WHEREAS, damage to the brain can result from a multitude...

WHEREAS, over 11,500 Alaskans are estimated to have a developmental disability; and WHEREAS, people with developmental disabilities share the same dreams and desires of all Alaskans; to be successful, independent, contribute to the workforce in a meaningful way, and...

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim February 28, 2019 as: Rare Disease and Disorder Day in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to support those with rare diseases and disorders, promote and raise awareness within their communities, and celebrate the progress being made by medical professionals and researchers worldwide.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim February 16, 2019 as: Elizabeth Peratrovich Day in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to celebrate her great influence on Alaska, and consider their role in carrying forward the principles of justice and equality she so admirably exemplified.

WHEREAS, President Ronald Wilson Reagan, a man of humble background but exceptional character, was an outstanding leader at a time when that was what our nation greatly needed; and WHEREAS, having been employed as an entertainer, union leader, corporate spokesman,...

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

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, career and technical education (CTE) offers students the opportunity to gain the academic, technical, and employability skills necessary for true career readiness; and WHEREAS, career and technical education provides students with career exploration...

January 22, 2019 (Juneau, Alaska) – Yesterday, Alaska Governor Michael J. Dunleavy issued a proclamation declaring January 22, 2019 “Right to Life Day” in Alaska. WHEREAS, to mark the 46th year since the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade, we join...

WHEREAS, to mark the 46th year since the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade, we join with the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, and mourn the millions of lives cut short, and the tremendous promise lost as a result of abortion on...

January 21, 2019 (Juneau, Alaska) – Alaska Governor Michael J. Dunleavy today proclaimed January 21, 2019 as “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day” and issued the following remarks "Dr. King’s words and actions are not simply relics of an era past, but a call to vigilance,...

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, Martin Luther King, Jr. was a passionate activist, outstanding leader, and inspiring pastor who devoted his life to advancing equality, justice, and opportunity for all people; and WHEREAS, he was driven by a deep-rooted belief that a person’s worth ought not...

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 in and day out, give their all to safeguard the...

WHEREAS, January 3, 2019 marks the 60th anniversary of Alaska’s hard-won fight to become the 49th state of the United States of America; and WHEREAS, in the years leading up to statehood, Alaska pioneers, with excellent foresight and keen understanding of the unique...

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim December 13, 2018 as: Alaska National Guard Appreciation Day in Alaska.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2018 as: Pearl Harbor Day