Alaska Federation of Natives Convention Celebrates 60th Anniversary

This week, Anchorage’s Dena’ina Civic & Convention Center is hosting two significant gatherings: the Elders & Youth Conference and the landmark 60th anniversary of the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) convention. These events bring together thousands to celebrate Alaska Native heritage, unity, and self-determination.

History and Evolution of the AFN Convention

The AFN convention originated as part of Native advocacy for unity and self-determination. According to Roy Agloinga, president of First Alaskans Institute, the event has become a vibrant celebration for Alaska Native people. “It’s Native New Year,” Agloinga said. “It is where all of our artists gather, and our families gather, and we get to experience the very diverse cultures across the state.” Over the decades, the convention has evolved, reflecting the strength and diversity of Alaska Native communities.

The Elders & Youth Conference: Intergenerational Connections

The week began with the annual Elders & Youth Conference, which started on Sunday and concludes Wednesday. Hosted by the First Alaskans Institute, the conference connects generations through workshops, cultural activities, games, and conversations focused on native culture, languages, and history. Tikaan Galbreath, Chief Operating Officer at First Alaskans Institute, noted the significance of youth engagement: “It’s just such a powerful thing to witness the youth coming with this idea or a dissatisfaction ... and then learning the framework to really have their voice heard.” Highlights of the conference include a Chin’an Night and Natives Got Talent program.

AFN Convention Highlights and Programming

The Alaska Federation of Natives convention commences on Thursday and runs until Saturday. Conference organizer Nikki Stoops anticipates up to 7,000 attendees, with as many as 100,000 more watching online. The convention features a range of programming centered on native self-determination, heritage, and pressing community issues.

This year’s keynote address will be given by Tlingit leader and Sealaska Heritage Institute President Rosita Worl. Following her remarks, Alaska legislative representatives—including Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, and Representative Nick Begich—will speak to the attendees.

Focus on Native Voting and Access

Organizers scheduled the AFN convention a week later than usual to align with the early voting period for the general election. “We want people to know, even though you’re not in your home community, you’re still able to vote,” said Stoops. To facilitate native voting, representatives from the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Bureau of Vital Statistics will be on hand to help attendees update IDs, passports, or birth certificates if needed.

Engagement Through Debate and Celebration

Friday's agenda will include a political candidates forum ahead of the November elections, providing a platform for dialogue on critical issues. On Saturday, delegates will discuss and vote on resolutions that address healthcare, public safety, education, and subsistence in Alaska Native communities. Agloinga emphasized the importance of finding common ground among the diverse delegates: “We want our children to succeed. We want to protect our lands. We want to have access to good education. We want our languages to survive and our cultures to survive. So many of our villages are really dependent on our subsistence lifestyle, and that’s something that AFN protects.”

Culture, Dance, and Community Gathering

A major highlight of the AFN celebration is two evenings of dancing and drumming presented during Quyana Alaska on Thursday and Friday. These performances, along with the convention’s many sessions and gatherings, reinforce the enduring strength and vibrancy of Alaska Native culture and languages.

Source: ktoo.org.