were held throughout the year and came to a culmination on December 18, which marked the 50th Anniversary since the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) was signed by President Nixon in 1971. ANCSA created Alaska Native corporations, including ASRC – and today these corporations serve as some of the top economic drivers for the state. A few weeks before the 50th Anniversary of ANCSA, executive leadership from five North Slope regional entities united to participate in an “ANCSA 101” congressional briefing in Washington, D.C. Since ANCSA created a significantly different model of representation than that of Lower 48 Native Americans, this was an important opportunity to educate lawmakers about the differences in the ANCSA model; the history of our region; the government’s role in shaping our future; and the economic realities facing our communities. To our knowledge, this is the first-time regional leaders across various Alaska Native organizations unified to educate a group of lawmakers in D.C. about the unique structure of Alaska Native representation and delivery of services that ANCSA created. ASRC’s Vice President of External Affairs, Bridget Anderson, participated on behalf of the Corporation and I invite you to read more about the congressional briefing on page 4.
2
In 50 short years, Alaska Native Corporations have continued to push the boundaries and succeed against significant challenges. It’s a story of strength, sacrifice and unity that I continue to be inspired by every day. Later in this issue, you will learn more about ANCSA and the early leaders that represented the Iñupiat of the Arctic Slope, and we look forward to celebrating our next milestone – ASRC’s 50th Anniversary in June of 2022. Even with the challenges that 2021 presented, I am extremely proud of the amazing work our shareholders and employees have accomplished. I am confident that as you read this year-end edition of the newsletter – you will see that our Iñupiat strength and resilience took many forms this past year. On behalf of the ASRC board and senior leadership team, from our families to yours – we wish you and yours a blessed 2022. Taikuu and God’s blessings,
Rex A. Rock Sr. President and CEO
