Stevens Village Tribal member and Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium President Natasha Singh delivered a powerful keynote address at this year’s Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Annual Convention, reflecting on this year’s theme — “Standing Strong, Standing United.”
Singh opened with a challenge to the audience — and to Alaska itself — to embrace transformation:
“Big risk and big change are exactly what we need to make generational impacts.”
She reflected on how Indigenous resilience and connection to the land, water, and one another continue to anchor Alaska Native people through times of hardship.
“Our culture and our values are our source of strength,” she said. “Whether you live in the city or the village… our values have endured.”
Drawing on the history of the Alaska Tribal Health System, Singh reminded listeners of the unifying effort that shaped Alaska’s model of self-governance.
“Unity doesn’t happen on its own. It takes real effort and a shared commitment… Even when we could hold out for the best outcomes for our regions, we yield to a higher purpose to ensure that each region and the smallest co-signer enjoys a fair outcome.”
She noted that through this unity, Tribes in Alaska now deliver some of the most advanced and culturally grounded healthcare in rural America.
“Because of our unity,” she said, “we have leveraged our ability to meet regional and statewide priorities… and we stand strong.”
Beyond health care, Singh highlighted the broader economic impact of Alaska Native organizations:
“Representing just 20% of Alaska’s population, Alaska Native people and our organizations carry far more economic impact than our weight… The annual Federation of Natives convention is our way of telling Alaska — ‘You’re welcome for our excellence.’”
Her message also carried a sharp call for policy reform and fiscal responsibility, urging leaders to prioritize education, public safety, and essential community services over short-term political promises.
“There is not enough revenue to support healthy communities and a full PFD… The budget is a values document. It reflects what we are truly willing to invest in.”
Singh concluded with an inspiring message of unity and hope for the future.
“When we come together united to demand our children have the tools to thrive — we are driving the impact our ancestors prayed for. My hope for our generation is that we will stand united like the generation that came before us… and build a healthy state and a bright future.”
In closing, her voice wavered with emotion as she left the audience with these words: “And my Natives, while you are in Anchorage this week, keep your heads held high and unite as a proud people — because this is our state.