The 2020 annual convention of the Alaska Federation of Natives will go virtual out of safety concerns over coronavirus. The decision was announced Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020, in a news release from AFN.
According to a statement from AFN president Julie Kitka, “It was a really tough decision -- but the health and safety of our delegates, participants, and attendees comes first. The high risk factors of holding a large, indoor meeting, with lots of Elders and delegates coming in from across Alaska, far outweigh the benefits of gathering in person.”
According the news release, the virtual convention will be scheduled October 15-16.
There will be no in-person portion this year. But the virtual convention will include live presentations and pre-recorded videos from Native leaders -- and state and federal officials. Alaska House Speaker Bryce Edgmon will deliver the keynote address.
Later in the release, Kitka writes, “Never has the need for responsive, transparent governance been more apparent than this year -- with the COVID-19 global pandemic continuing to impact all Alaska communities.”
The theme for the 2020 convention is “Good Government, Alaskans Decide” -- in a nod toward Census 2020 and the upcoming elections.
First Alaskans Institute announced in July that the annual Elders and Youth conference would be held virtually. Elders and Youth is usually held the Sunday through Wednesday before the AFN convention.
Disclosure: KNBA is a broadcast partner of the Alaska Federation of Natives.
