Category Archives: AFN

AFN stories

View from Upstairs

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Closer to the main entrance of the Carlson Center whiffs of cigarette smoke and perfume filled the air. All these people were gathering for the opening day of the Alaska Federation of Natives 2019 convention. Up on the second floor, where there was a stadium-like seating, people folded their chairs down to take their seats. Elders found place for wheel-chairs. Some adults carried toddlers. On the bottom floor of this large arena, all ages were Continue reading View from Upstairs→

Food Carts and Cigarette Smoke

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 The loud yammering of multiple conversations filled the ear as a swarm of people congregated outside of the Carlson Center.  It was so dense and it was difficult to move. The smell of food cart vendors and cigarette smoke trailed through the air. The food truck Nix’xx Philippine Express was selling mouth-watering Lumpia and Manila Chicken Adobo, so I suppose one could say there was something there for everyone.  Those headed for busses couldn’t help but pass tables Continue reading Food Carts and Cigarette Smoke→

Native Crafts, Convention Politics, and a Chance to be Heard

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Children run and play outside the entrance to the Carlson Center–one child slips on the slick ice and mud, but gets up with a smile, saved by her thick winter garb. Seated, vendors smile and wave, calling attention to their glimmering stone and bone carved into hunting tools and crafts. Their chatter with hovering patrons of their art is drowned by the sound of a thousand feet. The air is cool–the sharp sting of an Continue reading Native Crafts, Convention Politics, and a Chance to be Heard→