Dear Tribes and Tribal Members,
Last month, many of our communities experienced flooding as breakup moved across our rivers. During this difficult time, we here at TCC remained focused on supporting our Tribes and communities impacted by the flooding. TCC’s Incident Command Team responded immediately to reports of flooding as they occurred, and I made sure to remain available to our Tribal leaders and community members throughout the situation.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those whose homes and lives were impacted. In challenging moments like these, we are reminded of the strength of our people and the importance of coming together to support one another.
May also brought many meaningful opportunities to connect and celebrate. I had the honor of attending an honoring dinner at the University of Alaska Fairbanks recognizing three incredible Alaska Native leaders — Aġnik (Polly Schaeffer) and Vera Metcalf, who received honorary doctorates, and Maurice McGinty, who received the Meritorious Service Award. It was truly special to celebrate these individuals and their lifelong contributions to our people and communities. Maurice is from my home village of Nulato, and I was especially proud to see him receive this well-deserved recognition. You can learn more on page 10 of this newsletter.
I also had the opportunity to meet with U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman to discuss ways we can better align TCC public safety priorities with Department of Justice and Alaska MMIP initiatives. Our conversation focused on identifying practical ways to strengthen on-the-ground response efforts in Interior Alaska communities. The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons remains a top priority for TCC, and we continue working to strengthen support and response efforts across Interior Alaska communities.
That same month, I was honored to speak at the Gathering of Remembrance. I was deeply moved to see so many people gathered together at Golden Heart Plaza to honor loved ones who are missing or who have been taken too soon. Events like these are important because we cannot forget. We must continue to remind families that we see you, we stand with you, and you are not alone. This work takes all of us working together to create safer communities for future generations.
I have also continued participating in our monthly Alaska Native Roundtable discussions with our sister organizations, local leadership, and law enforcement partners. These meetings are an important opportunity to share information, strengthen partnerships, and work together on the issues impacting our communities.
Finally, I recently had the opportunity to visit several communities in the Upper Tanana subregion. You can see photos from these visits on page 12 of this newsletter. I always feel grateful to travel through our beautiful region and spend time listening to leaders who care deeply about the future of their people and communities. I look forward to continuing these visits across our region in the months ahead.
Ana Masee’,
Sharon Hildebrand
Chief/Chairman
Tanana Chiefs Conference