Avoiding Pitfalls: How to Create Respectful and Meaningful Alaska Native Land Acknowledgments

Introduction

In a previous article, I explored my complex relationship with Alaska Native land acknowledgments, describing both their potential power and their frequent shortcomings. As these acknowledgments become increasingly common in our state, it's crucial to ensure they're done with genuine intent and purpose. This follow-up piece aims to guide you through common pitfalls and offer practical advice for crafting acknowledgments that truly honor Alaska Native communities.

Understanding the Importance of Purpose

Before we dive into specific pitfalls, it's essential to recognize that the foundation of a meaningful Alaska Native land acknowledgment lies in understanding why it's being done. Whether your goal is to honor the original stewards of the land, educate an audience, or build a relationship with the community, clarity of purpose will guide every other aspect of the acknowledgment.

It's also important to understand the unique context of tribal sovereignty in Alaska. Unlike in the Lower 48, most Alaska Native tribes don't have reservations. Much land is owned by Alaska Native corporations under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971. This unique situation adds complexity to land acknowledgments in Alaska and underscores the importance of understanding local contexts.

Pitfalls to Avoid in Alaska Native Land Acknowledgments

Even with the best intentions, it's easy to fall into common traps that can diminish the impact of an Alaska Native land acknowledgment. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

1. Rushing Through the Acknowledgment: A rushed acknowledgment can feel insincere and tokenistic. It's crucial to approach the process with care and thoughtfulness.
2. Using Generic Language: Generic language that could apply anywhere diminishes the significance of the acknowledgment and fails to respect the unique identities of Alaska Native peoples.
3. Lack of Follow-Through: An acknowledgment without action is an empty gesture. It's essential to back your words with meaningful, ongoing commitments to the community.
4. Overlooking Historical and Ongoing Context: Ignoring the historical and ongoing relationship of Alaska Native peoples with their lands can make an acknowledgment feel shallow and disconnected.
5. Mispronouncing Names or Terms: Mispronunciations can signal a lack of respect or preparation, undermining the acknowledgment's impact. Correct pronunciation demonstrates a commitment to understanding and respecting the culture you're acknowledging.
6. Relying Solely on Alaska Native Individuals for Delivery: While well-intentioned, this approach can sometimes feel tokenistic and may unintentionally shift the responsibility away from event organizers and attendees.

A Case Study in Effective Alaska Native Land Acknowledgment

To illustrate how to avoid these pitfalls and create a meaningful acknowledgment, let's examine an example of what was delivered at the 2024 Alaska Defense Forum. This acknowledgment demonstrates several key principles that can guide the creation of effective land acknowledgments:

"We are meeting on the ancestral lands of the lower Tanana River's Dena (Den-a) people. These lands have been theirs for thousands of years, and their relationship with it remains strong and vibrant today.

As we gather here to discuss defense, we must recognize the deep history of protection and service by the people who have stewarded this land for centuries. The Dena people, along with other Alaska Native communities, have a long-standing connection to the land that extends far beyond the physical. It is a connection rooted in respect, stewardship, and an understanding of the land's importance, not just as a resource but as a living, breathing entity that sustains us.

The Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG), at the time known as the "Eskimo Scouts" - a term now considered outdated - was formed during World War II. Over 6,000 Alaska Natives, including many from the Lower Tanana region, volunteered to defend their homeland from the threat of invasion, even before they had the right to vote. This contribution is a powerful reminder of the dedication and patriotism that Alaska Native people have consistently shown, not only for their land but for the broader ideals of this nation.

Today, Alaska Natives continue this tradition of service with unwavering commitment. They serve in the U.S. military at some of the highest rates per capita of any ethnic group in the country, contributing to our national defense with the same courage and commitment as their ancestors. Their service is a continuation of a long tradition of defense and protection, underscoring the deep commitment Alaska Native people have to this country, despite the historical and ongoing challenges they face.

As we reflect on our discussions today, let us also honor the legacy of Richard Frank, a respected Elder from Minto. Richard served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was a fierce advocate for Alaska Native rights and land claims throughout his life. He played a crucial role in founding the Alaska Native Veterans Association and was deeply involved in the Tanana Chiefs Conference. His life's work serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and leadership within Alaska Native communities.

Let us remember that our presence here is part of a broader relationship with the land and its original stewards. We are encouraged to honor this relationship by continuing to learn about the history and ongoing contributions of Alaska Native communities and by committing to actions that support their sovereignty and well-being."

This acknowledgment demonstrates several key principles of an effective land acknowledgment:

1. Specific Recognition: The acknowledgment identifies the lower Tanana River's Dena people, avoiding generic terminology.
2. Historical Context: It recognizes the long-standing relationship between the Dena people and the land, emphasizing both its ancient roots and ongoing significance.
3. Relevance to the Event: By connecting the acknowledgment to the defense theme of the forum, it becomes integral to the event rather than a perfunctory add-on.
4. Recognition of Contributions: The acknowledgment highlights both historical (Alaska Territorial Guard) and ongoing military service of Alaska Native peoples, providing important context.
5. Specific Examples: By mentioning Richard Frank and his contributions, the acknowledgment becomes more personal and impactful.
6. Call to Action: The acknowledgment concludes with an encouragement for continued learning and support, promoting ongoing engagement.
7. Appropriate Language: The acknowledgment avoids patronizing language, focusing instead on respect and recognition.

By incorporating these elements, this land acknowledgment goes beyond a mere formality, becoming a meaningful statement that educates, honors, and encourages ongoing respect and engagement with Alaska Native communities.

Conclusion

Creating a meaningful Alaska Native land acknowledgment requires thoughtfulness, research, and a genuine commitment to honoring Alaska Native peoples and their relationship with the land. By avoiding common pitfalls and following the example set in our case study, we can craft acknowledgments that truly resonate and make a difference.

Remember, a land acknowledgment is not just a statement—it's a starting point for ongoing learning, respect, and action. It's an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the rich history and continuing presence of Alaska Native peoples and to commit to supporting their sovereignty and well-being.

Call to Action

To ensure your land acknowledgment is as impactful as possible, don't forget to download our Alaska Native Land Acknowledgment Checklist. You can access it for free here:

Alaska Native Land Acknowledgment Checklist

This checklist provides a step-by-step guide to creating respectful and meaningful land acknowledgments. It's a tool for anyone committed to honoring Alaska Native communities and their rich cultural heritage.

Let's work together to create acknowledgments that honor Alaska Native communities and their enduring relationship with the land. By doing so, we pay respect to the past and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding future.