JodyO.Photos

Alaska Federation of Natives

The Alaska Federation of Natives Convention will be held on October 17-19, 2024, at the Dena'ina Center in Anchorage, Alaska, and this year’s theme is "Our Ways of Life." Click here to learn more about AFN. Quyana Alaska Federation of Natives delegates – Welcome to Anchorage. Welcome, ISDA, Tsin'aen Negha Nonhdaetl, Ninshyaa Ts'in'xunsuu, Paglagivsi, Shejaa Inn Do' on Khweknok II Hajit Hontl'at Shoo Ihtii, Anaa Baasee'go Dinaaghun Na Uhdatt, Ida 'Inahdi, Igamsiqayugvukamsi Tagilghiisi, Gunalacheesh Haat Yeeh-aadi, Quyanaa Tailuci, Awa'ahdah Aanda'lazsha'a'ch't, Shakaj Naii oo'ee Hoojil Eenjit Shoo Ihtii, Dala T' Alangk'ings An Iitl'kil Laangag, Ixamnaxta-lix.

Since 1966, AFN has elevated the issues, concerns and interests of Alaska Native peoples. Every year delegates from communities around the state meet to discuss issues they are facing. AFN is the largest representative annual gathering in the United States of any Native peoples, and it has helped shape the course of Alaska history from the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to present day.

Many of the speeches, sessions, expo booths, art displays and dance events are open to the public, and there is no registration fee for public observers. The Alaska Native Customary Art Fair is renown as one of the best places to find Alaska Native and Native American artwork. More than 170 Alaska Native artists and craftspeople and Native American artisans from the "Lower 48" gather to showcase and sell their artwork during AFN. First introduced at the 1982 AFN Convention, Quyana Alaska was designed to restore traditional dances and ensure they would be passed on to the future generations. The cultural revival has certainly flourished across Alaska, and Quyana Alaska is now a treasured highlight of each and every Convention. The Banquet is a fun-filled evening that celebrates Indigenous cultures and supports the work of AFN.

Photo Credit: State of Alaska | Matt Hage