It was nearly 41 years ago, in October of 1966, when delegates to the annual convention of the Alaska Federation of Natives gathered to discuss the important issues of the time, to make plans affecting the lives of Alaska’s first peoples, and to take collective action on behalf of all of us. In the ensuing four decades, the capacities of the individual Native organizations that make up AFN’s membership have grown incredibly. Take a quick glance at the current Alaska Business Monthly magazine and you will see the long list of Native corporations—both regional and village corporations—that make up the top 49 Alaskan-owned businesses. This should be a source of pride for all of us. Our nonprofit regional associations regularly receive awards for excellence and recognition for their ingenious programs and cutting-edge innovations. Alaska Natives, through just plain hard work and strong leadership, have done things unimagined by our parents and grandparents.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your President.

Warm regards,

Julie Kitka, President

Tax deductible donations can be made to AFN through the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Fund.