AVCP Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Salmon, Subsistence, and Our Way of Life
Bethel, Alaska — The Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) stands united with our Tribal Nations, Tribal Organizations, and rural Alaskans to defend our inherent right to subsistence and to protect salmon for future generations.
Despite repeated losses in federal court, the State of Alaska has now petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn rulings in the US. v Alaska matter, that affirmed the federal rural subsistence priority under the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). The Ninth Circuit and the U.S. District Court for Alaska have both upheld that the State may not interfere with federal protections ensuring subsistence access on navigable waters, including the Kuskokwim River.
This latest attempt by the State is an attack on our way of life, our food security, and the survival of our people. Subsistence is not a privilege; it is our lifeline.
Click link below for full press release:
AVCP Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Salmon, Subsistence, and Our Way of Life
About:
Association of Village Council Presidents: Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) is a regional non-profit tribal consortium comprising 56 federally recognized tribes of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. AVCP’s region is approximately 55,000 square miles, with a population of 27,000 residing in 48 communities along the Yukon River, Kuskokwim River, and Bering Sea coast. The residents of the region are primarily Yup’ik, Cup’ik, and Athabascan. AVCP is dedicated to supporting the interests of its member tribes, including through community development, education, social services, culturally relevant programs, and advocacy. AVCP promotes self-determination and protection and enhancement of cultural and traditional values. As part of its mission, AVCP has long been committed to advocating for the protection of the Bering Sea and its resources.
