I would like to publicly acknowledge and thank U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski and Congressman Don Young for their strong support in confirming Rep. Deb Haaland for Secretary of the Interior. Sen. Murkowski was a key committee vote that was crucial in advancing Rep. Deb Haaland’s nomination. Congressman Young’s early and strong support for Rep. Haaland’s nomination was also very important and cannot be overlooked. This historic nomination may elevate tribal voices and bring in more revenue to Indian country, while enhancing the Department of the Interior under the Biden administration. It also represents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the need for economic development, balanced conservation and Alaska Native tribal sovereignty.
Alaska is a unique state when it comes to the number of tribal and corporate entities as well as the sheer amount of land that falls under the Department of Interior’s influence. It is crucial to support Indigenous leaders in areas that will be a real asset to the Interior and help fulfill the federal government’s trust responsibility obligation to Indian country. Congresswomen Haaland’s confirmation can help achieve that and our federal delegation’s support can help build relationships with the Biden administration to further benefit and advance Alaska’s interests in the under this new administration.
We hope to see Sen. Sullivan joining the rest of our Alaska delegation for the final confirmation vote in the full Senate.
On behalf of the Azachorok Board of Directors and 522 shareholders, we say “Quyana.”
— Loren Peterson
President, Azachorok Inc.
Anchorage
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