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Ally Zaukar
TRIBAL ADMINISTRATOR CROOKED CREEK TRADITIONAL COUNCIL CROOKED CREEK, ALASKA
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A little over a year ago everyone was talking about the election for tribal o ces. I actually didn’t want to get involved at rst – until one day when I saw a signup list at the post o ce. I gave it some thought, then I wrote my name in.
When I came to vote, there was my name for tribal administrator. I was so surprised. I didn’t think it would actually show up on there.
Five days after the election we learned the results. I couldn’t believe what was going on. I can’t believe it still. I just turned 20.
When I think about the opportunities that exist for my generation, it could very well be the mine. It could open up a lot of jobs. And
to work there you need training, which helps provide goals and accomplishments for my peers and the generation younger than me. This mine is going to be around for more than 30 years, and that’s exciting for the region.
But there’s another bene t. Donlin Gold requires no alcohol and no substance use. And that’s something that needs to be addressed. Young Alaska Natives need to stay away from those things – and this is a way to meet that goal.