The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) has unveiled its plans for the upcoming October convention in Anchorage. The convention will feature a program dedicated to the next generation of Alaska Natives.
AFN President Julie Kitka emphasized the timeliness of this year’s theme, “Our Children, Our Future Ancestors.”
“I anticipate a convention that is not unique but also forward-thinking,” Kitka remarked.
Kitka highlighted that the convention will delve into “The Way Forward Report,” crafted by a national commission on Native children named after two esteemed Elders: Alyce Spotted Bear, a prominent tribal leader from the Great Plains, and Walter Soboleff, a respected Lingít scholar and religious leader from Southeast Alaska.
Both were staunch supporters of Native children. Before Soboleff passed away at the age of 102, he frequently urged young individuals to “take care of the older person you are going to become.”
Kitka noted that the commission’s report, submitted to President Biden and Congress in February, contains numerous recommendations that warrant careful consideration during the convention.
“We have the ability to enhance conditions for our children, and we should not settle for the status quo,” Kitka expressed. “There’s room for improvement, and we can strive to improve things and broaden opportunities.”
After 33 years, this convention will mark Kitka’s final term as president. While she had announced her decision to step down earlier this year, Kitka shared that she was both surprised and grateful to be invited to deliver this year’s keynote address.
“The timing is ripe for change, and I see the transition at Alaska Federation of Natives as a chance for fresh leadership to take the reins, introducing new perspectives and approaches,” Kitka remarked. “It’s all part of the natural evolution. It’s positive.”
Kitka mentioned that the Alaska Federation of Natives Board of Directors intends to appoint her successor before the convention, suggesting that the new president may also address the gathering.
Anticipating that subsistence and national political issues will take precedence, Kitka highlighted Rep. Thomas Baker’s proposal to amend the constitution, allowing subsistence management on federal lands to revert to state jurisdiction. This marks the first instance in over twenty-five years that such a discussion has occurred at the state level. Although the resolution, HJR 22, did not garner enough support in the recent session, Kitka emphasized its importance for further deliberation during the AFN convention.
“I believe that one of the primary focuses of the convention will be addressing national issues impacting the Native community, demonstrating our collective concern,” Kitka remarked. “I anticipate this will be a prominent topic of discussion.”
The three-day event, which commences on October 17th, is the largest convention in the state, attracting delegates and their families from various parts of Alaska.
