University Of Alaska Anchorage: Celebrating Black History In Alaska In New Book

Anchorage AK

02 February, 2022

4:20 PM

Description

Press release from the University of Alaska Anchorage: February 2, 2022 About UAA About UAA UAA is the premier university in the heart of Alaska's largest city with campuses throughout Southcentral Alaska. Where culture, innovation and adventure converge, the unique locations provide unparalleled access to industry connections, Arctic research, outdoor recreation and more, facilitating once-in-a-lifetime experiences, groundbreaking education and impactful careers. Popular links UAA 2025: Strategic Plan Chancellor Equity, Compliance and Title IX About UAA Diversity and Inclusion Equity, Compliance and Title IX Green and Gold News Administration Chancellor Academic Affairs Administrative Services Advancement Student Affairs Campuses Kenai Peninsula Kodiak Matanuska Susitna Prince William Sound UAA 2025: Strategic Plan About UAA 2025 Putting Students First Embracing Diversity and Inclusion Community Partner Impact through Innovation Excellence Through Continuous Improvement Academics Academics UAA offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs that consistently prepare students for success after graduation. State-of-the-art classroom instruction and hands-on learning collide in UAA's innovative academic programs, which feature unique courses that train students to lead Alaska into the future. Popular links Academic Programs Advising Dates and Deadlines Academic Affairs Colleges and Schools Arts and Sciences Business and Public Policy Engineering Health Community and Technical Honors School of Education Graduate School Provost Apprenticeship Programs Continuing Education Business Enterprise Institute Admissions and Financial Aid Admissions and Financial Aid Learn more about admissions processes, taking classes, tour UAA in-person or virtually, and find out more about Financial Aid available at UAA. Whether you are a new or continuing student, the Office of Financial Aid is available to offer support and advice so you can make informed decisions regarding college funding options. Get help at the Enrollment Services Center: offering virtual and walk-in appointments to help students apply to UAA; get help with financial aid, scholarships, and the FAFSA. Popular links Visit and Tour Academic Programs Transfer to UAA FAFSA, Aid and Scholarships Locations Enrollment Services Center Admissions How to Apply Transfer to UAA Academic Programs Visit and Tour Request more Info Contact Admissions Financial Aid FAFSA, Aid and Scholarships Additional Payment Options Check your Status Student Responsibilities Cost of Attendance, Aid Types and Planning Tools Military and Veteran Student Services Student Accounts and Refunds Athletics Athletics From 13 competitive NCAA teams to recreation and intramural and club sports, students have the opportunity to excel in athletics at every level. The Alaska Airlines Center and Seawolf Sports Complex offer recreation as well as hosting community events and concerts. Students can take advantage of cheering for SeawolfNation with free tickets to many games. Popular links Seawolf Online Store Recreation Intramurals Locations Alaska Airlines Center Seawolf Sports Complex Go Seawolves Upcoming Seawolves Games Tickets Staff Directory Women's Sports Basketball Cross Country Gymnastics Skiing Track and Field Volleyball Men's Sports Basketball Cross Country Hockey Skiing Track and Field Research Research UAA is a hub for cutting-edge theoretical and applied research in health, engineering, and the physical and social sciences. In nearly every discipline, undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to join research teams and collaborate with experienced faculty mentors. Research at UAA Sponsored Programs Research Integrity and Compliance Graduate School Student Services Student Services Explore the wide variety of services and resources available at UAA to help promote your academic and personal success and well-being. From academic advising to student clubs and residence life, we're here to help you have an amazing university experience. Popular links Advising Bookstore Dates and Deadlines Transcripts USUAA Student Governance Library Student Health and Counseling Center Locations Student Union Enrollment Services Center Student Health and Counseling Center Current Students Advising Bookstore Registration, Dates and Deadlines Military and Veteran Student Services Degree Progress Transfer Credit Graduation Career Services Student Account (Bursar) Dean of Students Disability Support Services Student Life Engage Organizations and Clubs Activities and Programs Student Union Multicultural Student Services Recreation Residence Life Housing Options Apply for Housing Current Residents Info for Parents/Guardians Contact Residence Life Student Leadership USUAA Student Governance Student Media Concert Board Green Fee Board Club Council Emerging Leaders Program Alaska Natives Alaska Natives Located in the ancestral homelands of the Dena'ina, Ahtna Dene, Alutiiq/Sugpiak, Chugachmiut and Eyak peoples, Alaska Native curriculum at UAA provides an in-depth perspective on contemporary Alaska Native societies, languages, cultures, history, politics, art, governments and corporations. Academic Programs Alaska Native Studies — Anchorage Campus Alaska Native Studies — Kenai Peninsula College Alutiiq Studies — Kodiak College Alaska Native Business Management Minor Student Support Native Student Services Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program (ANSEP) Alaska Native Community Advancement in Psychology (ANCAP) Alaska Native, Indigenous & Rural Outreach Program (ANIROP) Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Natives into Nursing (RRANN) About UAA UAA is the premier university in the heart of Alaska's largest city with campuses throughout Southcentral Alaska. Where culture, innovation and adventure converge, the unique locations provide unparalleled access to industry connections, Arctic research, outdoor recreation and more, facilitating once-in-a-lifetime experiences, groundbreaking education and impactful careers. Popular links UAA 2025: Strategic Plan Chancellor Equity, Compliance and Title IX About UAA Diversity and Inclusion Equity, Compliance and Title IX Green and Gold News Administration Chancellor Academic Affairs Administrative Services Advancement Student Affairs Campuses Kenai Peninsula Kodiak Matanuska Susitna Prince William Sound UAA 2025: Strategic Plan About UAA 2025 Putting Students First Embracing Diversity and Inclusion Community Partner Impact through Innovation Excellence Through Continuous Improvement UAA 2025: Strategic Plan Chancellor Equity, Compliance and Title IX Diversity and Inclusion Equity, Compliance and Title IX Green and Gold News Chancellor Academic Affairs Administrative Services Advancement Student Affairs Kenai Peninsula Kodiak Matanuska Susitna Prince William Sound About UAA 2025 Putting Students First Embracing Diversity and Inclusion Community Partner Impact through Innovation Excellence Through Continuous Improvement Academics UAA offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs that consistently prepare students for success after graduation. State-of-the-art classroom instruction and hands-on learning collide in UAA's innovative academic programs, which feature unique courses that train students to lead Alaska into the future. Popular links Academic Programs Advising Dates and Deadlines Academic Affairs Colleges and Schools Arts and Sciences Business and Public Policy Engineering Health Community and Technical Honors School of Education Graduate School Provost Apprenticeship Programs Continuing Education Business Enterprise Institute Academic Programs Advising Dates and Deadlines Academic Affairs Arts and Sciences Business and Public Policy Engineering Health Community and Technical Honors School of Education Graduate School Apprenticeship Programs Continuing Education Business Enterprise Institute Admissions and Financial Aid Learn more about admissions processes, taking classes, tour UAA in-person or virtually, and find out more about Financial Aid available at UAA. Whether you are a new or continuing student, the Office of Financial Aid is available to offer support and advice so you can make informed decisions regarding college funding options. Get help at the Enrollment Services Center: offering virtual and walk-in appointments to help students apply to UAA; get help with financial aid, scholarships, and the FAFSA. Popular links Visit and Tour Academic Programs Transfer to UAA FAFSA, Aid and Scholarships Locations Enrollment Services Center Admissions How to Apply Transfer to UAA Academic Programs Visit and Tour Request more Info Contact Admissions Financial Aid FAFSA, Aid and Scholarships Additional Payment Options Check your Status Student Responsibilities Cost of Attendance, Aid Types and Planning Tools Military and Veteran Student Services Student Accounts and Refunds Visit and Tour Academic Programs Transfer to UAA FAFSA, Aid and Scholarships Enrollment Services Center How to Apply Transfer to UAA Academic Programs Visit and Tour Request more Info Contact Admissions FAFSA, Aid and Scholarships Additional Payment Options Check your Status Student Responsibilities Cost of Attendance, Aid Types and Planning Tools Military and Veteran Student Services Student Accounts and Refunds Athletics From 13 competitive NCAA teams to recreation and intramural and club sports, students have the opportunity to excel in athletics at every level. The Alaska Airlines Center and Seawolf Sports Complex offer recreation as well as hosting community events and concerts. Students can take advantage of cheering for SeawolfNation with free tickets to many games. Popular links Seawolf Online Store Recreation Intramurals Locations Alaska Airlines Center Seawolf Sports Complex Go Seawolves Upcoming Seawolves Games Tickets Staff Directory Women's Sports Basketball Cross Country Gymnastics Skiing Track and Field Volleyball Men's Sports Basketball Cross Country Hockey Skiing Track and Field Seawolf Online Store Recreation Intramurals Alaska Airlines Center Seawolf Sports Complex Upcoming Seawolves Games Tickets Staff Directory Basketball Cross Country Gymnastics Skiing Track and Field Volleyball Basketball Cross Country Hockey Skiing Track and Field Research UAA is a hub for cutting-edge theoretical and applied research in health, engineering, and the physical and social sciences. In nearly every discipline, undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to join research teams and collaborate with experienced faculty mentors. Research at UAA Sponsored Programs Research Integrity and Compliance Graduate School Sponsored Programs Research Integrity and Compliance Graduate School Student Services Explore the wide variety of services and resources available at UAA to help promote your academic and personal success and well-being. From academic advising to student clubs and residence life, we're here to help you have an amazing university experience. Popular links Advising Bookstore Dates and Deadlines Transcripts USUAA Student Governance Library Student Health and Counseling Center Locations Student Union Enrollment Services Center Student Health and Counseling Center Current Students Advising Bookstore Registration, Dates and Deadlines Military and Veteran Student Services Degree Progress Transfer Credit Graduation Career Services Student Account (Bursar) Dean of Students Disability Support Services Student Life Engage Organizations and Clubs Activities and Programs Student Union Multicultural Student Services Recreation Residence Life Housing Options Apply for Housing Current Residents Info for Parents/Guardians Contact Residence Life Student Leadership USUAA Student Governance Student Media Concert Board Green Fee Board Club Council Emerging Leaders Program Advising Bookstore Dates and Deadlines Transcripts USUAA Student Governance Library Student Health and Counseling Center Student Union Enrollment Services Center Student Health and Counseling Center Advising Bookstore Registration, Dates and Deadlines Military and Veteran Student Services Degree Progress Transfer Credit Graduation Career Services Student Account (Bursar) Dean of Students Disability Support Services Engage Organizations and Clubs Activities and Programs Student Union Multicultural Student Services Recreation Housing Options Apply for Housing Current Residents Info for Parents/Guardians Contact Residence Life USUAA Student Governance Student Media Concert Board Green Fee Board Club Council Emerging Leaders Program Alaska Natives Located in the ancestral homelands of the Dena'ina, Ahtna Dene, Alutiiq/Sugpiak, Chugachmiut and Eyak peoples, Alaska Native curriculum at UAA provides an in-depth perspective on contemporary Alaska Native societies, languages, cultures, history, politics, art, governments and corporations. Academic Programs Alaska Native Studies — Anchorage Campus Alaska Native Studies — Kenai Peninsula College Alutiiq Studies — Kodiak College Alaska Native Business Management Minor Student Support Native Student Services Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program (ANSEP) Alaska Native Community Advancement in Psychology (ANCAP) Alaska Native, Indigenous & Rural Outreach Program (ANIROP) Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Natives into Nursing (RRANN) Alaska Native Studies — Anchorage Campus Alaska Native Studies — Kenai Peninsula College Alutiiq Studies — Kodiak College Alaska Native Business Management Minor Native Student Services Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program (ANSEP) Alaska Native Community Advancement in Psychology (ANCAP) Alaska Native, Indigenous & Rural Outreach Program (ANIROP) Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Natives into Nursing (RRANN) During the late 1800s and early 1900s, regiments from the Buffalo Soldiers arrived in the gold rush town of Skagway, Alaska, to maintain order in the frontier city. It's a little-known piece of Alaska history that Ian Hartman, associate professor and chair of UAA's Department of History, hopes his book, Black History in the Last Frontier, will shed light on. Black history in Alaska is not widely known. Hartman, along with collaborators within the state's Black community, historians and the Anchorage Museum, have worked to  spread the word of the rich and significant contributions that the Black population has made in the 49th state. Initially what began as a project in 2015 for Anchorage's sentinel celebration, Hartman, along with other historians and notable historian and prominent community member Cal Williams, was asked to contribute a chapter to the book Imagining Anchorage. Six years and hours of interviews later, one chapter grew  into a whole book with the collaborative efforts of UAA, the National Park Service, the Anchorage Museum, the Black community, UAA alum, David Reamer, and grants from the Rasmuson and Atwood Foundations. "One of the best ways someone can meaningfully contribute to the civil discourse of their community is to learn about the history of their region and their community and fully understand the range of contributions that people have made," said Hartman. The late 1800s to World War II According to Hartman, some of the earliest records of Black people in Alaska were whalers participating in the Pacific commercial whaling trade in the mid-1800s. During the Alaska Gold Rush, Black soldiers helped maintain law and order in the new territory. From its early years as a town, there are records of Black settlers in Anchorage, most notably Thomas Bevers, the settlement's first paid fire chief. Beavers' role in creating Fur Rendezvous was central to the winter celebration we know and love today. Hartman said Bevers' role in the community was significant and that in addition to his role as the fire chief during the 1920s, he also served on several councils and was one of the first investors in Fur Rendezvous. Throughout the World War years, Alaska's cities and towns rapidly expanded. The development of the Alaska Highway brought jobs and people. According to Hartman, roughly 40% of the project's workforce building the new highway was Black, constructing stretches of road running from north to south and containing some of the highway's most treacherous terrain. He said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers did not provide their Black regiments with the power tools and materials they did for their white counterparts to complete the monumental project. Despite the hardships, Hartman said the U.S. Army Corps' Black regiments persisted and completed their portion of the highway's construction in just under a year, compared to the multi-year projection the work had been slated for. "There's this history of racism within the military that you can unpack, but then, at the same time, it's also a triumphant story, too," said Hartman. "Because it really demonstrates the valor these men displayed in building this road, against all odds." After World War II, Hartman said many African Americans trekked north to Alaska to work in the construction industry and the military. Post World War II "In some ways, once you get into the post World War years, the story of why African Americans are in Alaska is basically the same as why white or anyone who isn't Alaska Native is here," said Hartman. Like many Alaska stories, Hartman explains, they are brought here by jobs or family. Hartman said he hopes his book will open a dialogue about the essential contributions African Americans have contributed to our state. This will also provide a stepping stone to tell Alaska's more diverse and inclusive history. He hopes that his work and other historians will help shift the historical focus from a "white/Euro-centric frontier history" to include all people, groups and cultures that have contributed to our state's past, present and future. North to the future He hopes what began as one chapter in one book but grew to six years of work, hundreds of hours and collaborations with the Alaska and the Cook Inlet Historical Societies, the Rasmuson Foundation and countless interviews with prominent Black elders in the community, that this project will result in collaborative work with the Anchorage Museum and possibly take him on the road. Hartman said that ultimately the goal of this project — any history project, really — is to understand the context of people and places. He said to understand our current moment, it's crucial to understand the past — in its entirety. "The bigger project is to start building that history right," said Hartman. "We start with inclusion. This project emphasizes Alaska's Black community, but ultimately we want to have a history that is deeply inclusive, and that is reflective of the state and of the contributions of everybody." This press release was produced by the University of Alaska Anchorage. The views expressed here are the author's own.