Feb. 16, 2023

Dear faculty, staff and students,

Please join me today in celebrating Elizabeth Peratrovich Day, a holiday to honor an important leader in Alaska’s civil rights history. Peratrovich, a Tłingit woman and Grand President of the Alaska Native Sisterhood, was instrumental in passing the Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945. This groundbreaking legislation banned discrimination based on race in Alaska, making Alaska the first state or territory in the United States to enact an anti-discrimination law.

There are various ways all of us at UAF can work to build on Elizabeth Peratrovich’s legacy. One such opportunity is supporting the Troth Yeddha’ Indigenous Studies Center. Once built, the center will serve as a central gathering place for our Alaska Native and Indigenous programs, including classes, services and activities. The Troth Yeddha’ Indigenous Studies Center will serve not only our Alaska Native and Indigenous students, staff, and faculty, but will create a place of belonging and learning for all those at UAF.

UAF supports programs that promote inclusion and belonging. You can find many such programs offered through our Nanook Diversity and Action Center, including the celebration of Elizabeth Petrovitch Day at the Wood Center multi-level lounge tables today from noon to 1 p.m. and online at the NDAC Instagram and Facebook pages. Please join me in doing your part to make UAF a place of belonging for all people on Elizabeth Peratrovich Day and every day!

Thank you for choosing UAF.

Dan White, chancellor