Rachel Reilly
Dear Tribal Leaders and Tribal Members, Last month, I traveled to Anchorage to attend our Executive Board Meeting, the Tribal Unity Gathering, and the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Annual Convention. It was an important week for collaboration, discussion, and strengthening relationships across our Tribal network and with our partners statewide. Our Executive Board Meeting went very well. We had …
This year’s Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Annual Convention marked an important moment for Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) and Doyon, Limited as both organizations officially rejoined AFN after several years away. The 2025 theme, “Standing Strong, Standing United,” could not have been more fitting. From the opening ceremonies to the final gavel, the sense of unity, optimism, and shared purpose …
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the 2025 theme, “With Survivors, Always,” highlights the importance of partnership, safety, and solidarity with those affected by domestic violence. This theme serves as both a love letter and a call to action for advocates committed to supporting survivors’ rights and needs. Survivors Deserve Safety Safety includes physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial well-being. …
By Isaac Bettis, TCC Youth Services Coordinator FAFSA 2026–2027 Opens October 1st! Students, don’t wait! Submit your FAFSA as soon as it opens on October 1, 2025 at studentaid.gov. Applying early gives you the best chance at securing financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities before funds run low. Completing your FAFSA is a key step in planning for college and …
1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year. You are not alone and support is available. Talking about mental health helps break the stigma. Take Action: Check in with yourself and your loved ones. Learn the signs and symptoms. Seek help early. Healing is possible! Together we can build understanding, compassion, and hope. Tanana Chiefs Conference – Standing for …
By David Atteberry, TCC Public Safety Manager In many rural Interior Alaska villages, wood stoves are a vital source of heat throughout the long, cold winters. While they keep our homes warm and cozy, it’s important to remember that regular chimney cleaning is essential to keeping our families and homes safe. Over time, wood smoke creates a buildup of creosote, …
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to not only raise awareness but also take meaningful steps to protect your health and support others. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers, but early detection saves lives. This month, make your health a priority by scheduling a mammogram or clinical breast exam. If you’re not sure when you …
In early September, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to rescind the Central Yukon Resource Management Plan (CYRMP)—a plan more than a decade in the making, rooted in compromise, science, and Indigenous knowledge. The resolution, known as House Joint Resolution 106, passed the House on September 3 and was received in the U.S. Senate the following day, September 4. Under …
Each year on the second Monday of October, we recognize Indigenous Peoples Day—a time to honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of the first peoples of this land. For Alaska Native communities, this day is more than a celebration; it is an affirmation of our identity, resilience, and sovereignty. Indigenous Peoples Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the …
Dear Tribal Leaders and Tribal Members, October will be a busy month for Tanana Chiefs Conference. On October 14th, we will hold our Executive Board Meeting in Anchorage, followed by the Tribal Unity Gathering on the 15th. With our recent return to the Alaska Federation of Natives as directed by Full Board Resolution 2025-31, we will also be attending the …