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


Sealaska and The Unity Group Say, “GET OUT THE VOTE!”

Posted 9/30/2024
This year’s elections hold significant importance for us all, which is why we are encouraging all shareholders and tribal citizens to get out and vote – and bring a loved one, too! Voting is one of the most powerful ways to make your voice heard. Every vote counts, and your participation can help shape the future of our communities. Make sure you’re prepared for election day by having a… Source

Sealaska Board Chair Richard Tashee Rinehart Answers Shareholder Questions

Posted 9/18/2024
Newly appointed Sealaska board chair Richard Tashee Rinehart recently took time to answer shareholder questions surrounding board progress, priorities and commitments as the board and management collectively look toward the corporation’s next few years. Rinehart highlighted the addition of descendant shares, elder stock and the transition out of the timber industry as monumental progress… Source

Sealaska Board Names Richard Tashee Rinehart as board chair

Posted 9/6/2024
Sealaska Board Names Richard Tashee Rinehart as board chair Leadership decision emphasize value for shareholders, Southeast Alaska Sealaska’s board of directors made Richard Tashee Rinehart the company’s new board chair during Thursday’s board meeting in Klawock. The board also appointed Terry Downes, current CEO of Sealaska business arm Woocheen, as Sealaska’s CEO. Source

Back To Lands Week 2024 – Sealaska Interns Take Lessons Learned in Prince of Wales Into the Workplace and Beyond 

Posted 8/30/2024
Sealaska interns unload after a long journey to Howkan, a traditional Haida village site. Sealaska interns left to right: Evan Link, Operations Fellow at Icemar; Allison Mills, Natural Resources Intern at Sealaska; Addy Mallot, Storytelling & Engagement Intern at Sustainable Southeast Partnership; and Alicia Maryott, Traditional Food Security Intern at Tlingit & Haida Earlier this summer… Source

Sealaska proudly endorses Peltola for U.S. Congress

Posted 8/28/2024
The Sealaska Board of Directors has again endorsed Mary Peltola for U.S. Congress, speaking to her strong leadership and unwavering dedication to creating impact for Alaskan communities. Sealaska was the first Alaska Native Corporation to support Congresswoman Peltola’s bid for Congress in 2022 and continues to support the congresswoman in her campaign to continue serving Alaska in the state’s… Source