In the 20 years since The CIRI Foundation was created, it has been steadfast in its mission to enhance the heritage of Alaska Natives through programs that foster appreciation and understanding of Alaska Native cultures. Since 1986, the foundation has published or assisted with publication of six books that provide readers with a better understanding of Alaska Native cultures by recording relevant events in history or through the sharing of stories and opinions of the elders and the young, aspiring leaders of tomorrow.
Proceeds from the sales of these publications go to the foundation for its programs as well as scholarships and grants. According to Susan A. Anderson, M. Ed., president and chief executive officer of The CIRI Foundation, the publications represent a relatively small part of the foundation's entire budget, yet they are a vital link in the foundation's efforts to record and preserve Native cultures.
|
The first book published by the foundation was "Our Stories, Our Lives," a collection of personal experiences and traditional stories told by 23 Alaska Native elders of the Cook Inlet region, who represent the major geographic areas of the entire state. According to author Alexandra McClanahan, publisher of the Tundra Times at the time and now CIRI's historian, many of the elders were reticent to discuss their private lives, yet participated because of their desire to communicate a bit of their view of the world to young people. "The stories and words of these elders serve as a way of providing instruction and a meaningful way to pass on Native ways, especially our stories," says Anderson, a CIRI original enrollee of Tlingit heritage. |
 CIRI Historian and author Alexandra McClanahan talks with shareholders about various cultural books published by The CIRI Foudation at this year's CIRI Friendship Potlatch in Anchorage. |
This year "Our Stories, Our Lives" was reprinted with a new cover photograph of several Yup'ik storyknives (or yarruin as they are referred to in Yup'ik) made from ivory, antler, and wood. The storyknives were used by young girls to draw pictures in the mud or snow to illustrate their stories. The storytelling process was a vital means of teaching moral values and traditions. Words and pictures brought legends, lives and dramas of the cultures to life.
"For me, these publications are a great resource to learn more about
my own heritage," says Automme Anderson, a CIRI descendant of Athabascan
heritage. "They are filled with valuable stories and information
that connects me to my own heritage and the rich Native culture. I relate
to one book in particular, "Growing up Native in Alaska." It's
neat to read about the experiences of other young descendants in urban
and rural areas."
The following is a list of publications available through The CIRI Foundation.
Proceeds from the sale of these books benefit the Foundation's scholarship
and grant programs. Visit www.ciri.com/tcf/publications.htm
to purchase a book or call (907) 263-5582 or toll-free at 800-764-3382.
"A Dena'ina Legacy, K'tl'eghi'i Sukdu: The Collected Writings of Peter Kalifornsky:" Peter Kalifornsky, of Kenai, Alaska, wrote and compiled traditional stories, poems and language lessons in the Dena'ina Athabascan language of the Lower Cook Inlet for nearly 20 years. This book contains 147 bilingual Dena'ina-English writings by the self-taught writer and scholar. Dr. James Kari and Dr. Alan Boraas editors. (Published and funded by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Alaska Native Language Center in 1991, with partial funding provided by The CIRI Foundation. 485 pages. $16)
"A Place for Winter: Paul Tiulana's Story:" In this autobiography, Paul Tiulana describes his Inupiat culture of a hunter and fisherman and the traditions of his people on King Island, located 35 miles off the coast of northwestern Alaska in the Bering Sea. He shares his view on a variety of subjects, including relationships, child rearing, religion, war, education, the struggle to recover from a military-related accident, and modern times. Written by Vivian Senungetuk as told by Paul Tiulana. (Published by The CIRI Foundation in 1989. 150 pages. $17.95)
"A Reference in Time, Alaska Native History Day by Day:" Three hundred and fifty-two pages recording key events in the history of Alaska's Native people. This book highlights at least one significant event or occurrence for each day of the year. Historical photos are included. Edited by Alexandra McClanahan. (Published by The CIRI Foundation in 2001. $19.95)
"Growing Up Native in Alaska:" Young and aspiring Alaska Natives reflect on what it means to be an Alaska Native and how the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act has impacted their lives. Based on a series of interviews by Alexandra McClanahan. (Published by The CIRI Foundation in 2000. 400 pages. $19.95)
"Our Stories, Our Lives:" Twenty-three elders of the Cook Inlet region share their firsthand accounts of the dramatic cultural changes in Alaska from 1900 to 1985. The late Shem Pete of Tyonek, Peter Kalifornsky of Kalifornsky Village, and Nick Elxnit of Seldovia are among those sharing their personal experiences and traditional stories. Authored by Alexandra McClanahan. (Published by The CIRI Foundation in 1986 and reprinted in 2002 with a new cover. 245 pages. $15.95)
"Reflections on the Alaska Native Experience:" Twenty-one articles that appeared in the Anchorage Times during the period of 1981 through 1984 written by Roy Huhndorf on a variety of topics including self-reliance, education, Native corporations, health, subsistence, and a 10-year and 20-year assessment of the implementation of ANCSA. Edited by Alexandra McClanahan. (Published by The CIRI Foundation in 1991. 61 pages. $7.95)
Also available through The CIRI Foundation:
Tubughna, The Beach People: A 57-minute video documentary about life and changes in the Dena'ina Athabascan village of Tyonek from 1964 to 1984. While old ways are described, village life in the 1960s is shown, such as hunting, fishing, trapping, cutting wood, sewing skins, cooking and socializing. Directed by Frank Brink, produced by the Native Village of Tyonek, and promoted by The CIRI Foundation. Emil McCord Sr. served as the film project coordinator and devoted many years to ensure completion of the film. (First distributed in 1988. $29.95)
