A RESOLUTION

Relating to the Dissolution of Alaska Day and the Establishment of Reconciliation Day on October 18th

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF ALASKA:

Whereas, the historic record clearly demonstrates that Alaska Native peoples have occupied this land for thousands of years

Whereas, the historic record further demonstrates that “ownership” of Alaska was never transferred from Alaska Native peoples to the colonial Russian government

Whereas, the historic record further demonstrates that the transfer of sovereignty between Russia and America was not accomplished with appropriate agreement by or even consultation with the rightful stewards of the land

Whereas, the historic record further demonstrates that Russian and American colonialism and the resulting systemic oppression and discrimination of Alaska Native worldviews, epistemologies, and ways of life has caused severe disruption and trauma for Alaska Native people.

Whereas, the “Alaska Day” transfer ceremony represents a celebration of colonialism by commemorating these wrongs through the re-enactment of a segregated event akin to what the Alaska Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945 later disavowed.

Whereas, the Presbyterian church has issued an apology “to those who were and are part of ‘stolen generations’ during the Indian-assimilation movement, namely former students of Indian boarding schools, their families, and their communities”. Many international entities and state governments have issued similar apologies.

Be it resolved that “Alaska Day” and the transfer ceremony in Sitka be renamed to Reconciliation Day. This day will be used as a thoughtful occasions for inclusive cultural awareness, historic reconciliation, and consideration of reparations.

Further resolved the State of Alaska, and specifically the city of Sitka establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission with the goal of promoting healing, educating, listening, and the preparation of a report with recommendations for the State of Alaska, and the city of Sitka.