Tlingit & Haida sat in on its first AFN Board of Directors since rejoining the organization. Two years ago the Tribe made the difficult decision to leave AFN due to concerns that tribal voices were not being equitably represented; however, the current political climate demands greater unity among Alaska Native peoples. In uncertain times, unity is our greatest strength. Tlingit & Haida is committed to standing together with AFN and our fellow Alaska Native organizations to protect our rights, lands, and future generations.

Tlingit & Haida’s Executive Council voted to rejoin the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) following careful deliberation and dialogue and ongoing conversations with AFN leadership.

As the largest tribal government in Alaska, we recognize the value of working together to protect our shared rights, homelands, and sovereignty. Rejoining AFN is not a reversal of our concerns, but a commitment to ensure that tribal governments have a seat at every table where decisions are being made.

We remain deeply committed to holding space for Indigenous governance and self-determination, and we look forward to working in partnership with AFN and its member organizations to advance policies that reflect the diverse voices and needs of our communities.