Alaska Senators Honor 50 Years of the Alaska Federation of Natives

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate recently passed a resolution (attached), introduced by U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, commemorating the 50^th anniversary of the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN). AFN was formed in October 1966 when more than 400 Alaska Natives, representing 17 Native organizations, conducted a historic 3-day meeting to address Alaska Native land rights.

“I’m proud to honor and recognize the significance of AFN and what this organization has achieved. I look forward to the AFN convention every year – where we join together to exchange information, share ideas, discuss community issues and more importantly, learn from each other. I have seen firsthand how valuable this statewide gathering is year after year, and believe the importance cannot be understated,” said Senator Murkowski. “It is through these discussions that the AFN delegates are able to enhance and promote the cultural, economic, and political voice of the entire Alaska Native community.”

“I want to congratulate AFN on 50 years of commitment of, for, and by the Alaska Native peoples,” said Senator Sullivan. “Fifty years ago our Alaska Native leaders joined together to show the world that 55,000 individuals can make a difference by fighting for, and eventually passing, the largest land claims act in history. Since inception, AFN has proven time and time again that they are leaders in the state and country on many different issues, and always stand ready to serve Alaska Natives. I’m humbled and honored to serve AFN, and committed to working with the organization and all of the people it represents.”

This year’s AFN Convention, the largest representative annual gathering of Native peoples in the United States and the largest convention in the State of Alaska, will be held at the Carlson Center in Fairbanks from October 20^th to October 22^nd.

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