About ANCSA (Corps and Tribes)
Thursday, November 4, 2021

ANCSA Corporations and Tribes

  • ANCSA Corporations and tribes serve many of the same constituents – both have a mission to improve the lives of our shareholders and tribal citizens.
  • Relationship can be collaborative
    • Supporting traditional ways of life (subsistence)
    • Sustainable rural communities; employment
    • Education
    • Cultural and language preservation
    • Land into trust
Celebration 1998

There can be disagreement

  • ANCSA corporations as “tribes” for purpose of specific federal acts
  • Conservation vs. economic development
  • Political differences can arise (e.g. CARES Act funding and Roadless Rule)
  • Recent efforts through “Being Good Relatives” to bridge the divide

Relationship with Tribes
There was congressional intent and expectation that tribes would cease to exist as a result of ANCSA. However, tribes did not disappear. We are tribal people.

Tribal governments in Alaska continue to be recognized by the federal government, which maintains a government-to-government relationship with tribes. Tribes participate through contracting and compacting in programs established for the benefit of tribes and tribal citizens. Tribes also exercise sovereign authority over their memberships – they set their own standards for inclusion, which often do not rely on blood quantum – and their children through the Indian Child Welfare Act. However, very little land is held in trust for Alaska tribes.


Latest News


Community Meeting Information

Pinned - Posted 5/1/2024

Sealaska shareholders are invited to join us at our upcoming in-person and virtual community meetings to learn more about Sealaska business operations, upcoming opportunities and connect with fellow shareholders and descendants.



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Posted 5/3/2024
Jerrick Hope-Lang, LduteenSitka Indian Village and its Clan Houses proudly announce their nomination for prestigious national and statewide historic preservation lists. The nominations include recognition on the National Trust’s “11 Most Endangered Historic Places” and the Alaska Association of Historic Preservations’ “10 Most Endangered Historic Properties.”Sitka Indian Village, first built in the 1820s, is a cherished cultural landmark situated in the heart ...

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Posted 3/19/2024
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