ANCHORAGE, AK — Aleut announced today that it will officially rejoin the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN). This decision follows significant dialogue between the two organizations and key policy reforms within AFN aimed at strengthening governance, protecting regional representation, and rebuilding trust.
In 2022, Aleut withdrew its membership from AFN after a divisive resolution was advanced to the convention floor despite objections from the Aleutian and Pribilof regional delegation. This led the Aleut Board of Directors to suspend membership until meaningful reforms were adopted. Over the last several years, the AFN Board of Directors has worked to strengthen internal processes and has adopted key reforms, which include:
- New Bylaws: A resolution cannot advance to the convention floor if at least two regions deem it divisive.
- Conflict Mitigation Structure: AFN has instituted a review process for potentially divisive proposals, allowing time for dialogue and solutions before they are escalated to the full body.
- Emphasis on Regional Equity: The new framework ensures regional voices are not only heard but respected in all phases of the policy development process.
- Commitment to Unity: Under new leadership, AFN has emphasized sustainable governance and organizational cohesion as central to its advocacy mission.
In a formal apology dated July 22, 2025, AFN President Benjamin Mallott assured the Aleut leadership that appropriate safeguards against divisive resolutions are now in place. He wrote, “In embracing unity, we are paving a new path for the Alaska Federation of Natives. Our commitment is to serve all regional voices and to ensure that our governance reflects the values and aspirations of the communities we represent.”
“The Aleut Board has accepted AFN’s apology and acknowledges the effort and courage it takes to confront institutional shortcomings,” said Aleut President & CEO Skoey Vergen. “While this decision does not undo the past, it reflects our belief that AFN is moving in a direction aligned with its core purpose: to serve as a unifying force for Alaska Native peoples across all regions.”
Aleut’s reinstatement reflects a shared commitment to unity, accountability, and collaboration. The strength of AFN lies in its ability to bring together diverse Native voices from across the state in pursuit of common goals. Aleut is proud to rejoin that collective effort and to continue working alongside fellow Native leaders to advance the shared interests of our people.
About the Alaska Federation of Natives
The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) is the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska. Founded in 1966, AFN celebrated its 50th year in 2016. Its membership includes 176 federally recognized tribes, 143 village corporations, 11 regional corporations, and 10 regional nonprofit and tribal consortiums that contract and compact to run federal and state programs. AFN is governed by a 38-member board, which is elected by its membership at the annual convention held each October. The mission of AFN is to enhance and promote the cultural, economic and political voice of the entire Alaska Native community. Learn more at www.nativefederation.org.
About The Aleut Corporation
The Aleut Corporation (Aleut) is an Alaska Native regional corporation established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. It serves over 5,000 Unangax̂ shareholders and descendants with a mission to provide economic growth and opportunities. Aleut’s portfolio includes businesses in government and mechanical contracting, real estate and property management, technology and infrastructure, fuel sales, port services, environmental services, and energy. For more information, visit: aleutcorp.com.