As we come to the close of 2024, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on the remarkable progress we’ve made this year and share our collective vision for the future of Tlingit & Haida. This year has been a year of growth, advocacy and resilience. We have made significant strides in advancing the sovereignty, wellbeing, and prosperity of our people and communities, and I’m proud of all who contributed to this great work.
Throughout 2024, we have remained steadfast in advocating for the rights of our citizens, both within Alaska and across the United States. From engaging in discussions on federal policies that impact our communities to actively supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, we have been working tirelessly to elevate our voices. We’ve strengthened partnerships, expanded our advocacy efforts, and created new pathways for success in areas like education and economic development.
In particular, our efforts around tribal sovereignty has been central to our work this year. We continue to defend the self-determination of our people and ensure the federal government recognizes our rightful place in the governance of our lands and culture. We’ve worked to increase access to resources, improve our social services, and protect the rights of our citizens. Together, we are ensuring Tlingit & Haida remains a strong, respected voice at the table.
As we approach 2025, we do so with a commitment to upholding tribal sovereignty and ensuring Tlingit & Haida’s governing structure is effective to the needs of our people. In April 2025, the Tribal Assembly of Delegates will convene for a Constitutional Convention to ensure the Tribe's governance system reflects our values, traditions, and vision for the future. At this gathering, we will engage in important discussions and make critical decisions regarding the Tribe’s Constitution, which will guide us for generations to come.
I am filled with optimism for what we will achieve together. The path may be challenging at times, but we have proven time and again, there is no limit to what we can accomplish together. Our shared commitment to sovereignty, prosperity, and the wellbeing of our people will continue to guide us as we build a future that honors our ancestors and empowers future generations.
We are a people with a rich history and a bright future, and we are determined to navigate the path ahead with the same strength that has defined us. I am proud to work with and for our people as we continue this journey of strength through unity.
Chalyee Éesh, Richard J. Peterson Tlingit & Haida President
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
Tlingit & Haida's Executive Council and Sealaska Board of Directors met on December 10 to engage in meaningful discussions on issues that matter most to tribal citizens and shareholders. This collaborative meeting was an important step toward finding pathways to create mutually beneficial outcomes while strengthening entities to better serve people and communities.
This gathering was a critical milestone in building stronger connections between tribes, Native corporations, and Native organizations. With a shared vision and concerted effort, we are working towards a regional dialogue that will bring together Southeast Alaska tribes, corporations, and allied groups. Such a gathering promises to be a valuable opportunity to align goals, foster collaboration, and ensure that our collective voices and priorities are not only heard but acted upon.
Aatléin Gunalchéesh to Tlingit & Haida for their dedication to working together,” said Sealaska Board Chair Richard Rinehart. “We have always supported each other on priorities such as finalizing Landless and advocating for our way of life and language. We are excited about the opportunities to strengthen our work around economic opportunities, education, and a shared vision for the future.
“We are deeply grateful to the Sealaska Board for their partnership and for their continued dedication to the advancement of our people and communities,” said Tlingit & Haida President Chalyee Éesh Richard Peterson. “Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where our shared vision of prosperity, unity, and cultural revitalization is realized.”
Sealaska and Tlingit & Haida’s leadership are committed to working together and will continue to meet regularly to coordinate opportunities for partnership that support the social, economic, and educational needs of tribal citizens and shareholders. Both acknowledge there will be times when there may not be agreement, but are committed to leaning into those difficult conversations, recognizing their importance for the growth and well-being of our people.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to work toward turning this vision into a reality. Together, we are stronger.
Early Education Hosts Family Engagement Event
On December 9, Tlingit & Haida’s Early Education Division hosted a Family Night event in Juneau, Alaska filled with fun, food and crafting creativity.
Ethan Petticrew, Senior Director of Early Education, said it’s part of the division’s goal to take learning beyond the classroom. “We’re fostering and growing a relationship with our families. As Native people, often the door has been shut to us and we’re going to change that,” Petticrew said.
Tlingit & Haida’s Early Education team includes Head Start, Little Eagles and Ravens Nest (LEARN), Child Care Development, and the Haa Yoo X’atángi Kúdi Lingít and Xaad Kíl immersion programs.
Gunalchéesh, Háw’aa to our partners at Goldbelt Heritage Foundation who helped make this event a success. View Flickr Album: www.flickr.com/photos/ccthita/albums/
Haven House Now Open
A year after construction first began, Tlingit & Haida’s new Haven House (T’áa Shuyee Hít) women’s shelter is now open and taking applications. The shelter is located in Juneau, Alaska and serves as a transitional home for women in reentry and recovery.
The shelter offers support for women coming out of incarceration or substance abuse treatment. Women who live at Haven House must participate in programming that supports their recovery and mental health.
It’s one of three shelters operated by Tlingit & Haida’s Reentry & Recovery Department; Allen Court and Alaway are facilities for men.
Shortly after Tlingit & Haida took ownership of the property in 2020, the original Haven House flooded, which caused significant structural damage. The new facility was built on the same site, ecompassing 4,800 square feet. There are nine bedrooms for participants and an on-site manager, as well as a shared laundry room, kitchen, bathrooms and a communal living space.
“I’m hoping they can have a sense of home, a sense of camaraderie together. I’m hoping they’re able to get the structure and support they are needing for recovery,” said Christina Lee, Reentry & Recovery Operations Manager.
Haven House (T’áa Shuyee Hít) Women’s Shelter
Elders & Youth and AFN Convention Week Highlights
Staff and leadership from Tlingit & Haida visited Anchorage, Alaska in October to attend several events surround the week of the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention.
Following the 2nd Annual Alaska Civil Rights Conference, President Peterson was presented with the William Paul Distinguished Leadership Award by Alaska Native Brotherhood Camp 87 for outstanding achievements and contributions. The award commends the unwavering commitment to the progress and empowerment of Alaska communities, exemplifying the leadership qualities that William Paul championed throughout his life.
At the Tribal Unity Gathering and Get Out
the Native Vote event, Tlingit & Haida's Executive Council stood alongside other tribal leaders and Native organizations to work towards collective growth.
Before the week began, Anchorage staff and Community Council members distributed sockeye and coho to nearly 300 tribal citizen households. Over 115,000 pounds of salmon was distributed to all 21 communities through Tlingit & Haida's Traditional Food Security Department. "We're able to help a lot of people out and get them some salmon. I don't know how to explain it, but there is something about salmon that just heals a little bit when you have it in a meal...it just goes a lot further than that," shares Director Ralph Wolfe.
The Indigenous Stewardship Division demonstrated processing techniques for salmon, deer, and sea otter at the 2024 First Alaskans Insitute Elders & Youth Conference, bringing our way of life into the heart of downtown Anchorage. On Monday, Elders and youth were led through filleting, cubing, and pickling salmon and herring eggs. The next day, Heather Douville skinned a sea otter alongside many who came to learn, gathering even more to salt prepared pelts. Claude Young and Anthony Christianson demonstrated how to properly cut up a deer and gave the meat to Elders.
President Peterson accepts award presented by Richard Jackson, ANB Grand Camp Executive Committee Member
Tlingit & Haida staff prepare boxes of salmon for distribution to tribal citizens
Indigenous Stewardship team hosting demonstrations at Elders & Youth, with participants getting a hands-on experience using traditional tools and methods to process foods.
1st Vice President Jackie Pata speaks at the Tribal Unity Gathering
Veterans Day Ceremony
Gunalchéesh, Háw’aa to all who attended the Veterans Day event in Juneau, Alaska hosted by the Southeast Alaska Native Veterans and sponsored by Tlingit & Haida! Our community has a strong history of holding up our Veterans and it was felt that day.
The ceremony opened with a welcome by President Peterson, followed by a keynote address by retired U.S. Army Major General Richard Mustion. Yaw Tei Yi dance group provided a powerful performance that displayed our community’s love for our Veterans.
The courage these Veterans have shown to protect this country as members of our Armed Forces and the sacrifices they have made for their families and communities is profound and should never be forgotten.
Veterans Land Allotment
Tlingit & Haida has a specialist that can help Alaska Native Vietnam-era Veterans apply for the Veterans Land Allotment program.
The program ensures Alaska Native Vietnam-era Veterans and/or their heirs are able to select up to 160 acres of free federal land in Alaska and register for a Native allotment.
The Bureau of Land Management needs help connecting with eligible veterans.
The program is open to all eligible Alaska Natives who served in the armed forces between August 5, 1964, and December 31, 1971.
The application period closes December 29, 2025.
Apply at www.tinyurl.com/AKVeteranLand
If you need help with the application process, please reach out to Darrell Brown, Veterans Land Allotment Specialist at dbrown@tlingitandhaida.gov or 907.463.7311.
Comm. Ozzie Sheakley salutes during Posting of the Colors
Yaw Tei Yi dance group performs for Veterans
Group photo of Southeast Alaska Native Veterans
Celebrating Native American Heritage Month: Legacy of Leadership -
Tlingit & Haida
Hall of Fame
Tlingit & Haida hosted a special event on November 14 to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, reflect on the legacy of Southeast Alaska Native leaders, and recognize Walter Soboleff Day.
Speakers included President Peterson, Alaska Native Brotherhood Grand Camp President Sasha Soboleff, and President Emeritus Edward K. Thomas. President Emeritus Thomas shared information on the Tlingit & Haida Hall of Fame book he compiled. The book celebrates Southeast Alaska Native leaders whose contributions have made a lasting impact across various fields, such as the arts, education, politics, and more.
The book not only honors their exemplary work, but also serves to inspire future generations to continue striving for excellence and making a difference in their communities. By highlighting the diverse accomplishments of Alaska Natives, the Hall of Fame helps preserve and promote cultural heritage and leadership within the region. The nomination period will run July 15 – September 16 each year.
Watch the event: https://tinyurl.com/LegacyLeadership24
President Emeritus Edward K. Thomas delivers remarks at event
Ceremonial Signing Celebrates Landmark Agreement with Washington State to Uphold ICWA
A historic partnership between Tlingit & Haida and Washington State’s Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) was memorialized during a ceremonial signing on December 4 in Juneau, Alaska. This groundbreaking Indian Nations Program agreement marks the first of its kind between Washington and a tribe located out of state and is heralded as a potential model for similar collaborations nationwide.
DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter emphasized the significance of the agreement, noting that it may be the first out-of-state memorandum of agreement in the nation. “We look to Tlingit & Haida as a model and hope they inspire other tribes to partner with other states,” said Secretary Hunter. “This agreement sets a precedent and reinforces the importance of the Indian Child Welfare Act, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2023. It reaffirms Washington State’s commitment to ongoing collaboration to strengthen families and communities, ensuring children have the support they need to grow and thrive.”
With an estimated 9,000 tribal citizens living in Washington State, including approximately 1,600 tribal citizen children, this agreement reflects a proactive effort to meet the needs of tribal families.
President Peterson expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment of mutual sovereignties and highlighted the importance of the partnership. “Oftentimes, as a tribe, we find ourselves in defense mode, protecting sovereignty. It’s fulfilling to work with a state that truly embraces a government-to-government relationship. This agreement represents what’s possible when respect and collaboration are prioritized.”
President Peterson also highlighted the unique legal landscape in Alaska, where establishing similar agreements with tribes can be more complex. He expressed hope this landmark agreement with Washington State will set a positive precedent, inspiring not only collaborations with other states but also fostering a stronger framework for government-togovernment partnerships within Alaska. He emphasized the critical need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration to ensure all tribal citizens, regardless of where they reside, have access to the support and resources they need to thrive.
Under the terms of the Indian Nations Program Agreement, Tlingit & Haida will collaborate closely with DCYF to deliver culturally sensitive and responsive services that prioritize the well-being of tribal children and families. Services include child protection, foster care, dependency guardianship, termination of parental rights, and adoption proceedings.
This agreement not only affirms the importance of the Indian Child Welfare Act but also sets a benchmark for how states and tribes can work together to protect tribal children and families, ensuring cultural identity and connection remain at the forefront.
Washington DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter stands with President Peterson following signing ceremony
Tlingit & Haida Family Services Division staff stationed at the Lynnwood, WA office, stand with Secretary Ross Hunter and President Peterson
Movers & Shakers
Cara Gilbert was promoted to Self-Governance Manager. In this role, she will oversee the Tribe's Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Self-Governance program, which provides essential support to Compact tribes while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and fiscal policies. Her Tlingit names are K intoow and Gutloowa Tlaa. She is from the Ghaanaxhteidi clan, Yaay Hit (Whale House) and child of the Kagwaantaan Gooch Hit (Wolf House) of Klukwan, Alaska.
Cara’s leadership and dedication will undoubtedly help strengthen our selfgovernance model for the future.
Tlingit & Haida welcomes Disney Williams as the new Human Resources Training & Development Manager. Disney will play a pivotal role in supporting the professional growth of employees by ensuring they have the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to excel in their roles.
Disney is both Tsimshian and Tlingit and hails from Metlakatla. In addition to her professional achievements, she is currently training to compete in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand, later this year. We are excited to have her energy and expertise on our team.
Aliesha Richards has been promoted to Finance Grants & Restricted Revenue Manager. With over 25 years of experience in accounting, Aliesha has a strong background in managing financial operations, reporting, and internal controls. Her expertise will be invaluable as she helps to oversee the Tribe’s grants and restricted revenue, ensuring we manage these resources effectively.
Aliesha’s experience will help strengthen our financial operations, and we are excited to have her as part of our team.
Carol Martinez has been promoted as Community Navigators Manager. Carol was the first community navigator hired under the program established in 2022 and has demonstrated incredible dedication and knowledge of the program. In this new role, Carol will oversee the Community Navigators stationed in 20 communities, ensuring they remain a valuable resource for tribal citizens and a vital liaison to Tlingit & Haida. Carol is Tlingit from the Dak’dein’taan and her Tlingit name is Dasa’Ka’ee. We look forward to her leadership in this important role!
Joel Rogozinski comes in as the new Food & Beverage Manager. Joel will lead the food and beverage services across Tlingit & Haida facilities, including Sacred Grounds, Smokehouse Catering, and events related to the Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall. With his extensive experience in hospitality, Joel will ensure our services meet the highest standards of excellence and continue to enhance the experiences of guests. We are excited for the positive impact Joel will bring to our food and beverage operations.
Cara Gilbert
Aliesha Richards
Disney Williams
Carol Martinez
Joel Rogozinski
Mark Your Calendars
January Events
1: New Year’s Day (Offices Closed)
6: Summer Youth Emp;loyment Service Mentor Application Period Opens
10-11: Native Youth Olympics Season Kickoff - Ketchikan, AK
13: Tlingit & Haida Job Fair - Juneau, AK
14: Haven House Open House - Juneau, AK
17: Executive Council Meeting - Virtual
20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Offices Closed)
21: Alaska State Legislative Session Begins - Juneau, AK
23-25: 2nd Annual Elizabeth Peratrovich Basketball Tournament - Juneau, AK
February Events
3-4: We See You Human Trafficking Awareness Event & Missing & Murdered Indigenous People Listening Session - Juneau, AK
10-13: NCAI Winter Session - Washington D.C.
14: Elizabeth Peratrovich Day Observed (Offices Closed)
16: Elizabeth Peratrovich Day
17: President’s Day (Offices Closed)
20-21: Executive Council Meeting - Wrangell, AK
March Events
21: Executive Council Meeting - Virtual
23-29: Juneau Lions Club 76th Annual Gold Medal Basketball Tournament - Juneau, AK
April Events
1-30: Child Abuse Prevention Month
4-6: Traditional Games - Juneau, AK
14: Executive Council Meeting - Juneau, AK
16-18: 90th Annual Tribal Assembly - Juneau, AK
30: National Denim Day
May Events
1-31: Mental Health Awareness Month
1-31: Foster Care Appreciation Month
5: National Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day
16: Executive Council Meeting - Virtual
26: Memorial Day (Offices Closed)
Annual Tribal Assembly
Tlingit & Haida’s 90th Annual Tribal Assembly is just around the corner.
More than 100 Delegates, who are the governing body of Tlingit & Haida while in session and represent tribal citizens in 21 recognized communities, will gather in Juneau, Alaska.
At the Tribal Assembly in 2023, Delegates unanimously approved holding a Constitutional Convention in 2025 to examine the Tribe's governance structure. Delegates will review and considered proposed amendments to Tlingit & Haida's Constitution and Rules of Election.
For the past year, a special committee of nine Delegates have been reviewing the Tribe's Constitution in preparation for the Constitution Convention.
90th Annual Tribal Assembly
April 16-18, 2025
Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall 320 W. Willoughby Avenue Juneau, Alaska
The Tribal Assembly will be webcast live on the Tribe’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/tlingithaida
Upcoming Trainings on POW Island
The Generations Southeast Prince of Wales (POW) Campus is a authorized postsecondary institution that provides opportunities for training and career advancement through high quality, academic and vocational education.
Upcoming Classes
January 7 - May 29
Child Development Associate Tuesdays & Thursdays
Virtual Only
January 9
Customer Service
Virtual Only
January 23
Customer Service
Virtual Only
Learn More: www.generationssoutheast.org
For questions or more information, contact the Generations Southeast POW Campus at 907.463.8019.
Education Rooted in Tlingit and Haida Values
Cultural Ambassador Program: A Year in Review
After a successful first season of the Cultural Ambassador program at Áakʼw Tʼáak Sít’ / Sít’ Aant’aakú (Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center), the program wrapped up on October 24, but is looking ahead at new opportunities to expand the program next year. This program is a part of the Tribe’s co-stewardship agreement with the United States Forest Service to help bring more Indigenous culture and language to the traditional homelands of the Tlingit people.
Over the course of the summer, the Cultural Ambassador program grew to 11 staff, who collectively provided cultural education to an impressive estimate of 1.1 million visitors at the MGVC this year. This substantial foot traffic speaks to the glacier’s allure, but it is the Cultural Ambassador program that helped to enrich the experience for countless visitors, providing them with a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of the Indigenous people of Southeast Alaska.
Reflecting on this past season, it is evident the program had a successful launch, setting the foundation for future growth and impact. One of the key factors in this success has been the leadership and unwavering support from both Tlingit & Haida and the United States Forest Service.
The collaborative efforts created an environment inspired with innovation and positivity, which made it truly fulfilling for the cultural ambassadors to come to work each day.
Under the program, upgrades to the visitor center included plaques with Lingít words like jánwu (mountain goat) and l’ook (coho salmon), and relocation of the Porcupine Beaver totem pole carved by the late Tlingit master carver Amos Wallace.
“We are still here. We have been here and we’re not going anywhere,” said Cultural Ambassador Jordynn Fulmer. “We want visitors to understand who we are, where we come from, and what our language is.”
Cultural Ambassador Manager Jeremy Timothy said plans next year include adding forest walks and talks and more language resources.
“It’s important to let visitors know the Tlingit people have been here for such a long time. When you come out there, there hasn’t been a lot of ‘us,’ you don’t see a lot of the Indigenous culture out here,” Timothy said. “Having the ambassadors out here brings our people to the space.”
1,397
83
60
Total Tribal Citizen Students Class Instructors Types of Classes Offered
162
Classes
104
3 47
Tlingit & Haida’s language class recordings have a new home on YouTube.
You can now find three years of classes on: YouTube.com/TlingitHaidaLanguage
Dag júus Robert Yates teaches Xaad Kíl via Zoom every Monday and Wednesday from 12 PM -1 PM and Shaax’saani kéek’ Shirley Kendall and Neelaatughaa Anna Clock teach Lingít via Zoom every Tuesday and Thursday from 12 PM – 1 PM.
