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 AVÀÇÂÛ̳’s civil rights history. Peratrovich, a TÅ‚ingit woman
and Grand President of the AVÀÇÂÛ̳ Native Sisterhood, was instrumental in passing the
Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945. This groundbreaking legislation banned discrimination
based on race in AVÀÇÂÛ̳, making AVÀÇÂÛ̳ 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 . Once built, the center will serve as a central gathering place for our AVÀÇÂÛ̳ Native
and Indigenous programs, including classes, services and activities. The Troth Yeddha’
Indigenous Studies Center will serve not only our AVÀÇÂÛ̳ 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 and 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
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