By Sean Rice, TCC Employment & Training Coordinator Employment and Training recently hosted a 6-Pack training course from December 8–18, with six dedicated participants. Led by Greg Mercier from Alaska Waters, the class covered essential topics for safe and effective water navigation, including: Rules of the Road Chart Navigation Emergency Procedures Cold Water Survival Cargo Handling Rules and Regulations Weather …
Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) hosted the 2026 Education Summit, “Unifying Voices: Collaborative Approaches to Education,” on Thursday, January 15, 2026, in Fairbanks. The Summit brought together Tribal leaders, educators, policymakers, and partners to explore innovative, culturally grounded approaches to education that support Alaska Native students and communities. The day opened with welcoming remarks from Chief Brian Ridley, TCC Chief/President, followed …
The Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) Tribal Protection and Safety Division, in collaboration with the Emerging Leaders Youth Council, has launched a new educational effort aimed at promoting gun safety. This initiative includes the development of a short, impactful video designed to raise awareness and encourage responsible practices among youth and community members. This project was guided by TCC’s Full Board …
Dear Tribal Leaders and Tribal Members, I hope this message finds you well and that you were able to enjoy time over the holidays with your family and friends. I had the opportunity to spend quality time with my family, which I always appreciate and value, especially during this time of year. Last month, Tanana Chiefs Conference hosted the Tribal …
By Gwichyaa Zhee Gwich’in Tribal Government Like many of our sister Tribes throughout Indian country, the Gwichyaa Zhee Gwich’in Tribal Government (GZGTG) advocates for victims of crime through funds from the Department of Justice’s Tribal Set Aside Formula Grant. Since 2018, we’ve helped over 100 survivors who’ve made the decision to begin their healing process, welcoming their choice to reclaim …
Dear Tribal Leaders and Tribal Members, Happy New Year. I hope this season finds you well and surrounded by family and community. As we welcome 2026, I look forward to a year filled with progress, partnership, and continued strength for all of our Tribes. Together, we will keep moving forward on the issues that matter most to our people. Last …
By Roxanne Frank, TCC Trauma & Grief Recovery Specialist The holiday season is approaching and for some people it can be challenging time, especially when you are grieving the loss of a loved one. You may experience many different emotions that can be difficult to process during these festive times, like navigating the realization that this year will be different, …
Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) was joined by several other local Alaska Native organizations last month in welcoming Fairbanks City Mayor Mindy O’Neall to her new role. Denakkanaaga, Fairbanks Native Association (FNA), Interior Regional Housing Authority (IRHA) and Doyon, Limited gifted O’Neall with Traditional items and sage advice. “Fairbanks thrives from rural communities,” said Jack Wholecheese, First Chief of Denakkanaaga, “And …
On Saturday, November 15, the Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center was filled with a sense of peace, grounding, and community during the Indigenous Healing Winter Gathering. More than 50 participants came together for a one-day experience centered on reconnecting with traditional practices, strengthening cultural identity, and healing in a supportive, welcoming space. The day began outdoors with a smudging ceremony, …
The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) held its 2025 Annual Convention last month, bringing Tribal leaders, advocates, and partners from across the country together to advance policies that strengthen Tribal sovereignty and support Native communities. This year’s gathering saw a strong and unified Alaska presence, with over 100 delegates from across the state participating in key discussions and decision-making …