In April, Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) responded to a Facebook post by Fairbanks Mayor David Pruhs that deeply disparaged many in our communities — especially rural Alaskans and Alaska Native people. The post, made after a walk-through of Golden Heart Plaza, referenced people “coming in from the villages or out of shelters to live their lifestyle,” and stated, “We operate downtown on behalf of Fairbanks residents, because we live here, not for visitors.”
In the days that followed, TCC heard from Tribal members, leaders, and residents across the Interior who voiced their disappointment and concern. Fairbanks Native Association (FNA) and TCC issued public statements condemning the remarks and calling for accountability. At the April 28th Fairbanks City Council meeting, more than 20 individuals testified — nearly all addressing the harmful nature of the Mayor’s words and urging reflection, education, and real change.
TCC Chief/Chairman Brian Ridley addressed the council directly, saying, “For decades, Alaska Native people have fought against racial profiling and stereotyping here in Fairbanks. While progress has been slow, we believed we were moving forward. Yet the comments made — and the flood of racist and hateful remarks that followed — showed how fragile that progress remains.”
Fairbanks’s economy and culture is shaped and supported by rural Alaskans. In 2016 alone, Alaska Native organizations contributed nearly $600 million to the Interior economy. Native people come to Fairbanks not just to visit, but to live, work, seek medical care, attend school, and support the city’s businesses and services; proving that Alaska Natives are not outsiders — we are integral to the fabric of the community.
Mayor Pruhs has since issued a public apology and stated that his words were not intended to insult or denigrate anyone. He acknowledged that his phrasing could be construed as insensitive and expressed a desire to learn and do better. TCC recognizes this apology as a first step — and echoes what many of our people have said: Accountability is not only about words after the fact; it is about how you show up when it matters most.
TCC is hopeful that this painful moment can be the catalyst for something better. Mayor Pruhs has said he intends to convene conversations around racism, colonization, and community healing. He has also agreed to re-establish regular meetings between the city and local Native organizations like TCC and FNA. TCC remains hopeful that Mayor Pruhs will uphold the promises he has made, recognizing that future actions will be the true measure of his intentions.
As Chief Ridley stated in his comments to the City Council: “But accountability isn’t just about words after the fact. It’s about action in the moment when it matters most. Leadership means ensuring people from all walks of life feel safe, respected, and valued — not just when it’s convenient.”
This moment also reminds us why voting is so important.
When we vote, we shape the kind of leadership we see in our communities. We elect those who reflect our values, who understand our history, who respect the diversity and dignity of our people, and who stand with — not against — the communities they serve. Let this moment be a wake-up call. Let it energize our efforts to register, show up, and vote for leaders who will uplift, not divide.
Our voice is our power — in council meetings, in public forums, and especially at the ballot box.
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