Dear Tribes and Tribal Members,
As many of you are already aware, last month President Biden recommended a “No Action” alternative regarding the Ambler Road Project. This achievement stands as a testament to the power of our collective voices, the dedication of our Tribal Leaders, and the unwavering support of our advocates. So many times we are told that the battles we are up against are impossible – that we shouldn’t try because our voices will go unheard. It is clear that this is not true and that what is right is always worth fighting for. Let us carry this knowledge forward as we continue our advocacy for our hunting and fishing rights.
Speaking of the fight to protect our salmon, I had the privilege of providing testimony at the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC) meeting in Anchorage last month. Alongside Vivian Korthuis of Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) and Melanie Bahnke of Kawerak, I urged the Council to address the issue of bycatch and to integrate Indigenous knowledge into their decision-making processes. I am so grateful for the amazing partnerships that we have with other areas of the State. Our collective voices are powerful and we will only grow stronger as we work together.
Furthermore, I had the honor of attending the Self-Governance Conference in Arizona, during which the Alaska Area engaged in discussions with Indian Health Services (IHS) on various critical topics vital to Alaska, such as Behavioral Health, Water and Sanitation, Pharmacy Benefits Managers (PBMs), Drug Shortages, and more. Additionally, I, alongside our Health Services leadership, had the opportunity to meet directly with IHS Director Roselyn Tso and her staff to discuss the Community Health Aide Program to ensure that we are not overlooked in the nationalization of the program.
Last month, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game announced their intention to move forward with the release of Wood Bison in the Minto Flats despite opposition from our Tribes, per Full Board Resolution 2024-27. This decision reflects another disappointing and uninformed choice made by the State in its attempt to address its failure to responsibly manage existing animal populations. They should be consulting with our Tribes, who have successfully managed our land and waterways for thousands of years, to ensure the preservation of our natural resources for future generations.
Lastly, as the weather warms, so does the risk of flooding. It is crucial to have a go-bag ready in the event of a flood and to familiarize ourselves with our community’s evacuation plan. For more information on flood preparedness, please visit https://www.tananachiefs.org/flood-preparedness/ and follow us on Facebook for more tips and updates.
Mahsi’ Choo,
Chief Brian Ridley