advocacy, indigenous foods
2024 Alaska Federation of Natives Convention
Blog by Rachel Lord, Advocacy & Policy Director, AFPC
Tikaan Galbreath (IAC National TA Director, AFPC Board Vice-Chair) & Rachel Lord (AFPC)
At mid-October’s Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) convention in Anchorage, we had the privilege of representing the Alaska Food Policy Council and sharing a booth with our friends from the Intertribal Agriculture Council. The convention was filled with so many inspiring conversations and connections, highlighting the energy and unity of our state in ways we won’t soon forget.
Our shared table became a gathering place where we could talk with folks from all over Alaska about our agricultural initiatives, food systems, and the work we’re doing with the Regional Food Business Centers. There’s something powerful about coming together in a setting like AFN, where so many voices converge, each one with its unique perspective and story yet sharing a common goal: the strength, well-being, and resilience of our communities.
The Intertribal Agriculture Council has been an invaluable partner in these efforts. Together, we were able to offer insight and resources on ways to strengthen local food systems, support traditional food practices, and empower regional food economies. People from across the state—rural, urban, young, and old—stopped by with questions, ideas, and stories. Many had insights about local challenges and opportunities in their regions, whether it’s improving food access, protecting subsistence resources, or fostering sustainable agriculture.
This convention wasn’t just about sharing information; it was about building and reinforcing relationships. Being part of a community that’s so engaged and energized reminds me why I do this work. We left feeling both inspired and grateful for the connections made, new and old. Events like AFN bring us all a little closer, reminding us of the strength in our shared commitment to a healthier, more resilient Alaska.
