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Investing in the Future by Upholding Traditional Values

Sealaska, the regional corporation for Southeast Alaska, has been a beacon of hope and empowerment for Indigenous communities for over fifty years. Founded under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), Sealaska not only encourages economic prosperity but also embeds traditional values into its operations, ensuring that both culture and environment are preserved.

Continuing the Promise of ANCSA

The ANCSA was a groundbreaking piece of legislation that addressed decades of advocacy by Alaska Natives. It transferred approximately $962 million and 44 million acres of land to the Indigenous people of Alaska, empowering them to steward their resources. Instead of implementing a reservation system, this act allowed Alaska Natives to operate for-profit corporations, positioning them to create wealth and investment opportunities for their communities.

Sealaska represents the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Peoples, and under ANCSA, has been providing various benefits that enhance health, education, and welfare for its shareholders and their families. The corporation has become a model of how traditional values can align with modern business practices to benefit future generations.

Emphasizing Cultural Connection

At the heart of Sealaska's vision is the recognition that cultural connection is pivotal for the well-being of its shareholders. This connection forms the basis for decisions made at Sealaska, which actively seeks to invest in businesses that embody these values. The corporation's commitment reflects the enduring wisdom of Indigenous cultures that have thrived in harmony with nature for centuries.

A Global Perspective

Sealaska has successfully expanded its operations globally, creating a portfolio of businesses that not only generate revenue but also promote ocean health worldwide. These ventures align closely with the corporation's mission of sustainability, as they aim to uplift shareholder benefits and enhance the cultural fabric of Southeast Alaska.

Categories of Ocean Health Businesses:
1. Geosciences - Sealaska's subsidiaries leverage world-class expertise in offshore, nearshore, and onshore geosciences to deepen understanding of planetary systems.
2. Construction Environment - These branches focus on enhancing infrastructure while ensuring the preservation of vital water resources, a shared concern across the globe.
3. Sustainable Seafood - By prioritizing responsibly sourced seafood, Sealaska plays a proactive role in addressing climate change through responsible resource management.

Investing Back into the Community

The revenue generated from Sealaska's international operations plays a crucial role in bolstering local economies and cultural initiatives in Southeast Alaska. A portion of this revenue is reinvested into ongoing ocean health efforts, ensuring the corporation’s endeavors are sustainable, while another part is returned to Alaska Native shareholders via dividends.

Sealaska is committed to supporting educational programs, promoting career development for affiliated students, and funding initiatives that revive traditional languages and practices. This holistic approach ensures that cultural and economic health remain entwined—fostering a sense of community responsibility and connection to the land and waters.

Stewardship of Traditional Lands

Through its Natural Resource department, Haa Aaní, Sealaska champions sustainable land management. This initiative focuses on restoring local ecosystems and creating collaborative projects that engage communities and shareholders alike. By accelerating old growth development, supporting food security through fish passage monitoring, and maintaining traditional trails, Sealaska steps into its role as a steward of the land.

The support of traditional arts and culture continues to be a vital part of Sealaska’s mission. Their Carving Bark Program provides essential materials to traditional artists, ensuring the transfer of cultural knowledge to future generations.

The Future of Sealaska

Since the enactment of ANCSA, Sealaska has continually redefined what it means to serve its shareholders. As it navigates the complexities of the modern world, the corporation remains steadfast in its dedication to balancing economic success with environmental sustainability and cultural vitality. This commitment reflects a profound understanding that economic empowerment, cultural richness, and environmental stewardship are interdependent, and integral to the identity of the Alaska Native people.

Through its diverse initiatives, Sealaska stands as a testament to the potential of Indigenous values in driving sustainable growth. The corporation represents a model for integrating traditional practices with modern economic strategies, ensuring the prosperity of its people and the health of its homelands for generations to come.

For more information about Sealaska and its initiatives, visit Sealaska.com.