Q1 2024 Tribal News Newsletter

Tlingit

The Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Tlingit & Haida) President Richard Chalyee Éesh Peterson and his designee Christopher Cropley, Director of Tidal Network, have been selected to serve a two-year term on the Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (IAC) of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The FCC is committed to serving state, county, local, and tribal interests by actively soliciting input on regulatory processes, and vigilantly assessing the impact decisions might have on respective governments. The IAC comprises 30 elected officials that act as an advisory panel to guide the FCC on a range of telecommunications issues.

“Our participation ensures the unique needs and perspectives of Indigenous people are considered in federal telecommunications policy,” shared President Peterson. “This is more than just a seat at the table. It’s a chance to advocate for better connectivity and digital resources for our people and communities.”

The IAC will meet approximately four times a year. Members are required to attend at least half of the IAC’s full-committee meetings. In addition to quarterly meetings, designees may be called upon to participate in conference calls and undertake some IAC-related follow-up activities between the quarterly meetings. These meetings and activities are typically associated with the working groups to which members will be assigned.

Committee member duties may include producing deliverables, gathering information and data, and providing guidance and expertise that will advance the Commission’s mission and objectives to better implement broadband programs to members of the public. The two-year term will commence at the IAC’s first meeting on April 18, 2024.

Men’s Wellness & Healing Gathering

Three New Canoes Unveiled

Pathways to Healing The Warrior’s Journey

August 14-16

Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall Juneau, AK

Join Tlingit & Haida’s Community & Behavioral Services (CBS) Healing Center for a Men’s Wellness & Healing Gathering August 14-16 in Juneau, AK.

The gathering is open to all men 18 years of age and older, and will focus on creating a safe space to address unique issues faced by men such as expressing emotions in a healthy way, understanding mental health and substance use issues, how to ask for support, and recognizing you are not alone.

Breakfast and Lunch will be provided daily. We hope you will join us.

Registration

Coming Soon!

For more information, contact the CBS Healing Center at HealingCenter@tlingitandhaida.gov or 907.463.7305.

Tlingit & Haida’s Cultural Heritage Department hosted a ceremony for the Tribe’s three new canoes on December 14, 2023 in Juneau, AK.

In early 2023, Tlingit & Haida purchased three canoes, Yaakw (Lingít) or Tlúu ( X aad Kíl), to be used in cultural and wellness programs. Three distinct designs were envisioned – two to bring balance and represent our moieties and one to celebrate our people.

The canoes honor the history and legacy of our people’s connection to the ocean, inside passage waters and tides and include designs created by tribal citizen artists Alison Bremner, Richard Dalton III, and Gregory Frisby.

“Tlingit & Haida is glad to have the canoes represented by your work,” shared President Peterson as he addressed the artists. “You are esteemed artists and we are honored to carry these designs. We’re a healing community and I want to see these as instruments of our healing, using traditional ways to bring us into the future.”

As part of the ceremony, canoe blessings were provided by X’unei Lance Twitchell and K’uyáang Benjamin Young.

“What we ask our ancestors and the Creator for is the strength and determination to become knowledgeable of our own land again, and our own language, and our ways of life,” said X’unei. “Austin Hammond used to talk about kunageiy, déili, a safe harbor. If you’re out on the water in bad weather, you seek shelter in that place. Our hope is that inside these canoes is a peaceful place, it’s a place of strength where we can regain all these things that we’re taking back, which includes the land and the language.”

Eagle Canoe

Art by Kuwúxh Alison Bremner. The canoe is named Kugwaas’ Yaakw (Lingít translation: Fog Canoe).

Raven Canoe

Art by Teeykat.aa Richard Dalton III. The canoe is named Yéil Kookénayi (Lingít translation: Raven’s Messenger).

Our People Canoe

Art by Gregory Frisby. The canoe is named Gáayuwaa K’it’ads ( X aad Kíl translation: Slicer of Large Waves Canoe).

Picture of canoes with designs (L-R: Eagle, Raven & Our People canoes)

Client Success Stories

Congratulations to Norval Nelson, Martin Brown and Alan Fisher Jr. for successfully achieving their vocational training goals! Below are their stories which are a testament to the power of perseverance and the invaluable resources offered through Tlingit & Haida’s Employment & Training (E&T) Department.

Norval was in search of education to help pursue gainful employment. As a single parent, he set his sights on finding a job with good benefits and excellent pay that allowed him to stay in Juneau, AK. His previous work as a commercial fisherman paid well but required him to be away from his family.

After researching careers, Norval chose to pursue a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). He excelled in his training and got along well with his instructors. Immediately upon completion of training, Norval was hired full-time with Southeast Trucking.

Norval is the son of Barbara Cadiente-Nelson and Norval Nelson Sr. He is from the Teikweidí (Brown Bear) clan and his Tlingit names are Deiska (Forever Young) and Shook’Ku Stuk (Hard to Kill).

Martin received services through E&T’s Job Placement & Training (JPT) program to participate in the Alaska Vocational Technical Center’s (AVTEC) Plumbing & Heating program. The JPT program provided tuition, room and board, and support services to help with transportation and tools.

Through the AVTEC Plumbing & Heating program, Martin received basic training in construction and maintenance of plumbing and heating systems along with a wide range of experiences to prepare him for a career in the plumbing and heating, construction, and facility maintenance trades.

After completing the Plumbing and Heating program, Martin was accepted for an apprenticeship with Local Union 262 Plumbers and Pipefitters. His goal is to become a Master Plumber.

Martin is the son of Natalie Brown and the grandson of Evan and Elaine Kadake. His family comes from Kake, AK. He is from the Kiks.ádi clan and Sun House.

Alan had a lifelong dream of becoming a commercial pilot. His upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and the value of community, which he carries still today. At 14 years old, he realized his passion for aviation during a flight with Wings. A pilot, recognized his interest and it ignited a spark in him that became a burning desire.

Driven by the desire for a fulfilling career and financial security, he took action in his mid-twenties. After meticulous research, he enrolled in a flight school and applied for assistance through Tlingit & Haida’s Job Placement & Training program. Through unwavering dedication, he’s on track to graduate in summer 2025. His ultimate goal is to fly for a major airline like Alaska Airlines or Delta Airlines and return home to share the joy of flight with others and potentially teaching others this incredible skill.

Alan’s Tlingit name is Kashkein and he grew up in Hoonah, Alaska. He is from the Kaagwaantaan clan and Box House of Sitka, AK.

To learn more about how the JPT program can help you, email jpt@tlingitandhaida.gov or call 907.463.7333.

Norval Nelson

Martin Brown

Alan Fisher Jr.

Culture Classes Expand

Tlingit & Haida’s Cultural Heritage Department is committed to developing and hosting regular cultural heritage classes throughout our communities to ensure the existence and perpetuation of our unique arts and cultural practices. The foundation of these opportunities is based on collaboration with Elders, tribal citizen artists, culture-bearers, and community partners to maximize resources.

Classes have been held to teach tribal citizens how to make dentalium earrings, sea otter headbands, and button robes, weave graduation caps, cedar baskets and headbands, spin wool, bead and much more.

For current culture classes available, visit Tlingit & Haida’s Events webpage: www.tlingitandhaida.gov/info/events

Promoting Arts Programs to Ensure the Existence & Perpetuation of Our Culture

Follow Tlingit & Haida

Tlingit & Haida’s online presence is growing! We are pleased to share the Tribe’s official Facebook page has more than 45,000 followers, TikTok is up to more than 12,900 followers, Instagram has surpassed 8,500 followers and Twitter is approaching 2,000 followers. Social Media has proven to be a valuable tool for sharing current information on Tlingit & Haida’s programs, services and activities with tribal citizens and friends. Please help us continue to expand the Tribe’s social media reach by “liking” and “sharing” our posts!

tlingitandhaida.gov

@tlingitandhaida.gov

@tlingithaida

@tlingithaida @tlingit_haida

Arctic Sports to be Added to the North American Indigenous Games

After four years of advocacy, Tlingit & Haida’s Wellness Administrator Kyle Worl, in partnership with Yukon North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) council members, has succeeded in compelling the NAIG council to add Arctic Sports, also known as Native Youth Olympics, to NAIG’s roster of sports.

NAIG is the largest multi-sport event for Indigenous peoples in North America and is governed by an international council. There have been ten NAIG competitions since 1990. The 11th NAIG competition will be held in Calgary, Alberta in 2027.

Arctic Sports games are based on real survival skills derived from hunting, fishing, and communicating across far distances. These games have helped Indigenous peoples to thrive in what is now Alaska, Northern Canada, and Greenland for countless generations.

In November, Worl provided testimony to the NAIG council, and the council decided unanimously to incorporate Arctic Sports into the 2027 NAIG competition as a trial sport. This inclusion of Arctic Sports means games like the Seal Hop and the One-Foot High Kick will be a part of the 2027 NAIG games.

“This is a monumental vote that will elevate our sport to a new level across North America,” said Worl. “I want all tribes to know about this and hope to see teams get ready to participate in the 2027 NAIG.”

Alaska Youth Stewards Program

Do you care about stewardship of our natural resources and want to engage our youth?

The Alaska Youth Stewards (AYS) program is currently seeking crew leaders in Angoon and on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska. The program is also looking for crew members ages 14-18 in Angoon, Hoonah, Kake and on Prince of Wales.

The program blends experiential education, on the job training, career counseling and job placement for youth in rural Southeast Alaska to get on the path to higher education and employment in natural resource stewardship.

Crew leaders will be responsible for training and supporting youth crews throughout the field season and are hired by the host organization for a minimum of 4-6 months.

If you are interested in becoming a crew leader or member, email AlaskaYouthStewards@gmail.com.

Colton Paul

Head Start

Now Enrolling

Tlingit & Haida Head Start is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year! Head Start promotes school readiness and provides educational activities that support cognitive, social, and emotional development. It’s provided at no cost to enrolled families.

Who is Eligible?

Children between 3-5 years of age. (must be age 3 by September 1).

Communities Served

Angoon • Craig • Hoonah • Juneau

• Klawock • Petersburg • Saxman • Sitka • Wrangell • Yakutat

Program Offers

ƒ Nutritious Breakfasts & Lunches

ƒ Well-Equipped Classrooms

ƒ Services to Meet Special Needs

ƒ Parental Involvement

ƒ Family Support

Enroll Online Now tinyurl.com/2024HeadStartEnroll

For more information, contact Tlingit & Haida Head Start at 1.800.344.1432 ext. 7127.

Youth Employment Services

The Employment & Training Department is pleased to announce the Youth Employment Services (YES) program application period is now open! The summer YES program will run June 10-August 30 and helps students discover career/education pathways, develop employment skills, learn more about tribal operations, and improve self-sufficiency. Employment positions will be available with host employers throughout Southeast Alaska. Applications will be accepted through April 26.

Apply Online: www.tinyurl.com/2024YESProgram

Eligibility Requirements:

ƒ Must be 14-21 (Student) or 16-24 (Non-Student).

ƒ Must be tribally enrolled or demonstrate proof of eligibility for tribal enrollment.

ƒ Must be economically disadvantaged.

ƒ Must reside in Southeast Alaska

For questions, email the Youth Employment Services program at YesandInternships@tlingitandhaida.gov.

Circle of Brothers Men’s Group

If you are a tribal citizen male living in Juneau, Alaska, our Community & Behavioral Services (CBS) Healing Center invites you to join the weekly Circle of Brothers healing group focused on healing, growth and support.

The healing group provides a safe and supportive space for tribal citizen men to explore trauma, share experiences and embark on a journey of healing together. Come join us as we embrace our culture, honor our stories, and support one another on the road to healing.

The in-person healing group sessions are held every Wednesday from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Gajaa Hít Building (250 Gordon Street ∙ Juneau, AK).

Beginning on April 24, a virtual option will be available for tribal citizen men who live outside of Juneau. To register for the online class, email HealingCenter@tlingitandhaida.gov.

State-Tribal Education Compact Legislative Report

Approved by Alaska State Board of Education

The Alaska State Board of Education unanimously approved the State Tribal Education Compact (STEC) Schools Demonstration Legislative report in January. This is one step closer for tribes to have the ability to create pathways for education and ensure culturally-relevant and placebased curriculum is part of everyday learning for our tribal youth.

Under a state-tribal education compact, a tribe would have the local authority to operate as its own district and oversee K-12 schools.

The report was submitted to the legislature for review and tribes are hopeful it will gain traction this legislative session. The next step would be for legislators to pass a bill that supports the creation of a pilot program for tribally compacted schools.

“The State of Alaska supports local control in many ways, including in education,” said President Peterson. “I think tribal compacting is the epitome of local control and has the potential to enhance education delivery.”

Last year, Tlingit & Haida was one of five Alaska tribes to secure a grant from the State-Tribal Education Compacting Demonstration Tribal Partners Grant program.

Tlingit & Haida currently delivers early education services through its Head Start program and Haa Yoo X’atángi Kúdi (HYXK) Lingít language immersion nest.

Tlingit & Haida seeks to protect and further the Tlingit and Haida language and way of life through a comprehensive Early Education program that incorporates the Tribe’s HYXK Lingít language immersion nest, Little Eagles and Ravens Nest (LEARN) child care center, and Head Start program. The mission for the proposed Early Education program is to provide integrated language and culture education to tribal children of all ages so they may carry forward their heritage in their lives and for future generations.

STEC Schools Demonstration Legislative Report: www.tinyurl.com/AKTribalCompactReport

Tribal and Department of Education and Early Development partners at a meeting on December 5, 2023

Tribal & Community Ownership of Educational Excellence

New Managers & Promotions

Please help us welcome new members to our management team as well as congratulate those who were recently promoted to strengthen the Tribe and services to our tribal citizens and communities!

Daaljíni Mary Cruise was promoted to Tlingit Immersion Manager. Since 2019, she has served as the lead instructor for the Tribe’s Haa Yoo X’atángi Kúdi (HYXK) Language Immersion Nest for preschoolers. In her new role, Daaljíni will develop and implement Lingít immersion curriculum and support early education initiatives.

Chatham Timothy was promoted to Hospitality Director. He first joined Tlingit & Haida in 2022 as the Front of House Coordinator for the Business & Economic Department. In this capacity, he will provide management oversight of the following tribal enterprises – Smokehouse Catering, Sacred Grounds Café, Driftwood Lodge, and the Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall.

Sabrina Grubitz was promoted to Public Safety Manager. She first joined Tlingit & Haida’s Public Safety Division in 2020 to serve as Emergency Operations Coordinator. In her new role, she will oversee all programs and activities under the Office of Emergency Management, including the First Responders Opioid Education and Tribal Homeland Security programs.

Dixie Hutchinson was hired as Communications Director. She brings more than 16 years of communications experience and 13 years working as a journalist in Alaska. In her new role, Dixie will oversee and implement Tlingit & Haida’s communications strategy. Prior to joining the Tribe, she worked as community outreach manager for Sealaska.

Laura Revels joined Tlingit & Haida as the new Tribal Home Visiting Manager. In this capacity, she will develop, coordinate, and monitor the implementation of the Tribal Home Visiting program under the Tribal Family & Youth Services (TFYS) Department. Laura’s work experience includes developing wellness and education programs for tribes.

Casey Groat was hired as Tribal Family & Youth Services Manager. In this capacity, she will provide direct oversight of the planning, development and implementation of the Tribe’s Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and Elders programs and activities. Casey previously worked for the State of Alaska as the Statewide ICWA Coordinator.

Daaljíni Mary Cruise

Chatham Timothy

Dixie Hutchinson

Casey Groat

Sabrina Grubitz

Laura Revels

Mark Your Calendars

April Events

1-30: National Child Abuse Prevention Month

5: Go Blue Day

5-7: Traditional Games – Juneau, AK

15: Executive Council Meeting – Juneau, AK

17-19: 89th Annual Tribal Assembly – Juneau, AK

19: President’s Awards Banquet & Education Fundraiser – Juneau, AK & Webcast Live

May Events

1-31: Foster Care Appreciation Month

5: National Day of Awareness for Missing & Murdered Indigenous People

8-11: Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative Gathering – Sitka, AK

17: Executive Council Meeting – Held via Zoom

27: Memorial Day (Offices Closed)

June Events

3: Tribal Enrollment Application Deadline

5-8: Celebration – Juneau, AK

10-12: Enrollment Committee Meeting – Juneau, AK

14: Executive Council Meeting – Juneau, AK

17: Tlingit & Haida Day Observed (Offices Closed)

19: Tlingit & Haida Day

Save-the-Dates

89th Annual Tribal Assembly

“Rooted in Tradition, Growing a Sustainable Future”

Lingít Translation:

Haa Kusteeyí tudéi haa ksixát, Haa Shuká aa yáx kei haa nawát

Xaad Kíl Translation:

Awáahl Gagwíi gin k uyáa an tl’áng únsadgaangaan: Hawáan gin ‘láa tl’áng sk’at’áas kilíiganggang.

April 17-19, 2024

Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall • Juneau, Alaska

For questions or more information on the upcoming Tribal Assembly, visit Tlingit & Haida’s website (www.tlingitandhaida.gov) or email TribalAssembly@tlingitandhaida.gov.

Upcoming Training Opportunities

Generations Southeast is a authorized postsecondary institution that provides opportunities for training and career advancement through high quality, academic and vocational education. Check out the variety of courses coming up:

April 9

Financial Literacy

In-Person & Virtual Option

April 26

First Aid/CPR/AED Certification

In-Person Only (Juneau, AK)

May 14

Financial Literacy

In-Person & Virtual Option

May 24

First Aid/CPR/AED Certification

In-Person Only (Juneau, AK)

May 28–June 13

Early Childhood Leadership

In-Person & Virtual Option

For more information or to register for a course, visit Generations Southeast’s website at www.generationssoutheast.org.

Enrollment Committee Report

Enrollment Committee

Back Row (L-R): Paul Marks II, Mary Edenshaw, Judy Helgesen, Louise Kadinger, and Frank Wright

Front Row (L-R): Patricia Alexander, LaVerne Wise, Ella Bennett, and Stephanie Rainwater

Tlingit & Haida’s Enrollment Committee met March 6-8 in Juneau, Alaska to review enrollment applications, as well as blood quantum corrections and relinquishment requests.

A total of 579 applications were reviewed by committee members, which resulted in 508 newly enrolled tribal citizens. There were also 5 blood quantum corrections reviewed and no relinquishment requests received.

Next Enrollment Committee Meeting: June 10-12, 2024

Enrollment Application Deadline: June 3, 2024

If you have questions or need assistance updating your enrollment record, please contact the Program Compliance (Tribal Enrollment) Department at 1.800.344.1432 ext. 7359 or enrollment@tlingitandhaida.gov.

President’s Awards Banquet & Education Fundraiser

Tlingit & Haida is pleased to announce the annual President’s Awards Ceremony will be held with an Education Fundraiser at the Centennial Hall in Juneau, Alaska on Friday, April 19, 2024! Each year, the event honors incredible people throughout Southeast Alaska and beyond who have contributed greatly to our tribal citizens and communities in various ways.

Robert Davidson

President’s Lifetime Achievement Award Old Massett & White Rock, British Columbia

President’s Everyday Heroes Awards

Jill Meserve

Language Warrior Juneau, AK

Paul Marks

Culture Bearer Juneau, AK

Keenan Sanderson

Emerging Leader Ketchikan, AK

LaVerne Wise

Hold Each Other Up Seattle, WA

Jennifer Younger

Small Tribal Business Sitka, AK

Anthony Ross

Youth Mentor Kake, AK

Hans Chester

Inspiring Educator Juneau, AK

Randie Fong

Tribal Ally Honolulu, HI

Janice & Ed Hotch

Caring for Our Children Juneau, AK

Elizabeth Peratrovich Basketball Tournament

In January, Tlingit & Haida hosted the first ever Elizabeth Peratrovich Basketball Tournament that brought six high school girls basketball teams to Juneau, Alaska for a three-day tournament.

The tournament was named after Alaska Native civil rights leader Elizabeth Peratrovich and has been a longtime vision for Thunder Mountain High School Basketball Coach Andy Lee. He finally made it happen with support from Tlingit & Haida’s Youth Network Department.

“I’ve always thought of Elizabeth Peratrovich, hearing the stories about her and her impact on the civil rights movement and the legislation that she’s impacted and the people she’s influenced — what a great role model,” Coach Lee said. “I want things to live on, beyond the people that are here and the message. And I want it to resonate with young women who play — and I hope there’s a 50th-annual.”

With support provided by the Tribe’s Youth Network Department, the tournament kicked off on January 18. There were two teams from Thunder Mountain High School in Juneau, Alaska, along with teams from Hoonah, Skagway, Angoon and Dillingham.

The students from Dillingham were excited to make the trip to play teams that aren’t in their normal division.

“I play because it makes me feel confident and I like playing with my teammates. We feed off each other’s energy,” said Dillingham senior Zoe Tilden.

Skagway freshman Kelsey Cox said her team is like a family and she loved being a part of the tournament. “I think it’s really important for women to come together and play basketball together. And for people to come to see how much potential women have,” Kelsey said.

This year, the Skagway Panthers took home the first place trophy in the final championship game against the Hoonah Braves.

President Peterson stands for a group photo with champions of the Elizabeth Peratrovich Basketball Tournament, the Skagway Panthers

Youth basketball players competing at the Elizabeth Peratrovich Basketball tournament

Tlingit

907.463.7368 communications@tlingitandhaida.gov

Preserve our sovereignty, enhance our economic and cultural resources, and promote self-sufficiency and self-governance for our citizens.

Tribal Opioid First Responders Conference

Over 60 first responders from around Alaska participated in Tlingit & Haida’s Tribal Opioid First Responders Education conference held in February in Anchorage, Alaska.

With the theme “Knowledge is Power,” the Public Safety Division’s Addiction & Recovery program coordinated two three-day conferences with 12 presenters to increase resources and training available to first responders.

For many tribal communities, the opioid crisis has reached epidemic proportion. According to current data available, Indigenous people have the highest opioid-related death rate of any demographic in the United States and drug-related deaths among Indigenous people have quadrupled since 1999. It was also shared during the conference that a person dies approximately every seven minutes from an opioid overdose.

“I tried to get speakers from the clinician side to boots on the ground so our attendees could hear from all aspects of the opioid epidemic,” shared Louis Tagaban, who coordinated this year’s conference. “If we save one person or assist in getting someone into treatment, this conference was worth everything.”

Highlights from the conference included sessions on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of use or misuse of opiates and other drugs, as well as overdose prevention and drug influence detection training.