Legislation Honors Alaska’s First People and Their Ongoing Contributions to the Alaska Way of Life and Economy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2016
Juneau – Today, the Alaska House of Representatives passed House Bill 275 to designate October 18th as Indigenous Peoples Day to coincide with Alaska Day. HB 275 is sponsored by Representative Harriet Drummond (D-Anchorage).
“As we face down an unprecedented fiscal crisis, let’s remember those who have come before us who struggled with far greater challenges,” said Rep. Drummond. “By formally designating Indigenous Peoples Day we can honor Alaska’s First People and cultures, which are directly tied to our state’s past and our future.”
Last year, Alaska Governor Bill Walker proclaimed Indigenous Peoples Day on October 12, but that proclamation was just for one year. HB 275 would permanently designate an Indigenous Peoples Day in Alaska.
“Holidays matter because they commemorate important people, events, and places,” said Rep. Drummond. “Our First People deserve the recognition that will come with Indigenous Peoples Day and I am hopeful the momentum we gained with today’s vote in the Alaska House will carry over as HB 275 is considered by the Senate in the coming days.”
HB 275 was passed unanimously today by the members of the Alaska House of Representatives. The bill will now be sent to the Alaska Senate for consideration.
For more information, please contact Alaska Independent Democratic Coalition Press Secretary Mike Mason at (907) 444-0889.
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