Indigenous Peoples’ Day at UAF

By Nóra McIntyre

UAF celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day on October 9th, 2023. It is recognized yearly on the second Monday of October as a day to honor Alaska Native people, culture, and knowledge. It was celebrated for the first time at UAF in 2017, after numerous resolutions were made by students, faculty, and staff for the day to be recognized.

Photo by Autumn McPherson

This year there were various events and activities hosted across UAF campuses, from Bethel, to Nome, to Bristol Bay, and more! At UAF’s Troth Yeddha’ campus, the day kicked off with a frybread taco fundraiser to support the Festival of Native Arts. Festivities continued at the Wood Center, with multiple events taking place from 2-5pm. 

Tables set up in the Multi-level lounge in the Wood Center featured a diverse array of art, goods, and informational materials. Local artists sold jewelry and stickers, while the UA Press offered a selection of books. Members of the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District offered information about resources for students, as well as free stickers from a contest held across the school district! 

The UAF College of Rural and Community Development advertised the Rural Human Services certificate program, which is offered in Anchorage, Bethel, and Fairbanks, and focuses on education through traditional values. More information about this program can be found through the UAF course catalog. 

The Alaska Native Student Wellness Alliance was present, with an interactive question board where people were encouraged to post their own responses. Marita Ticket, the Vice President of the organization explained that the group has been in hiatus, but will be resuming activities, along with a new focus on wellness. Those interested can search for ANSWA in Nanook Engage and reach out to their officers using the contact information listed. 

Alongside the tables in the Multi-level lounge, participants and spectators enjoyed dance workshops, as well as a performance from the Troth Yeddha’ Dance Group. Other workshops took place in the Wood Center Ballrooms, including skin sewing and fish skin sewing, as well as tastings of Alaska Native foods and Native Games demonstrations.