Alaska tribe to decide fate of European explorer statue

mayor of Anchor has asked Native Vill of Eklutna to determine what happens to a statue of a British explorer following calls for its removal as monuments to historical figures are being dismantled across country.

statue is of Captain James Cook, who came to Alaska in 1778 in what is w kwn as Prince William Sound and Cook Inlet while searching for rthwest Pass as an explorer for British government.

Cook and his crew were first Europeans to set foot in region and were credited with discovering land that was already inhabited by Indigeus people.

Anchor Mayor Ethan Berkowitz and Native Vill of Eklutna President Aaron Leggett wrote a joint letter saying that “ statue is but one symbol among many that fail to fully and fairly recognize Anchor’s First People.”

letter was written in response to Anchor Sister Cities Commission, which suggested modifying monument to reflect history of Alaska Natives.

“Consequently, as part of government-to-government relationship between Municipality of Anchor and Native Vill of Eklutna, we seek to establish a process that respects crucial role and sovereign authority of local tribes as we more fully and fairly portray Alaska’s past,” letter said.

Leggett said this is most significant recognition from an Anchor official of vill being a sovereign government. Native Vill of Eklutna is only tribal government within boundaries of Municipality of Anchor. It became federally recognized in 1982.

A decision has t yet been made on what will happen to statue, but Leggett said he would like to see modifications at statue site that represent history and voice of Dena’ina people.