Indigenous Place Making Movement Opening Ceremony

On behalf of Aaron Leggett, President and Chair of the Native Village of Eklutna, please mark your calendar for a celebration of Dena’ina artistic place making at one of Anchorage’s most beautiful public parks. The ceremony will feature performances by Dena’ina artists and speakers including Eklutna President Aaron Leggett, Mayor Bronson, Rasmuson Foundation President Diane Kaplan, and artist Melissa Shaginoff. We encourage everyone attending this outdoor event to look out for one another, especially our Elders and children and help keep them safe. Masks will be available and encouraged. A video will be shared following the event for all to enjoy.

The theme chosen for the Indigenous Place Making project is the Firebag. In Dena’ina it means “in it are things,” representing a symbol of strength and survival for the Dena’ina people. It was an object that was very special because of the materials it was made from and who it was bestowed upon. The new plaza on the lagoon features artwork by Athabascan & Paiute artist Melissa Shaginoff. Her metal sculpture encircling the post is inspired by the dentalium bead pattern of the Firebag. Chanshtnu is the Dena’ina word for Grass Creek, now known as Chester Creek. The sign also features Dena’ina phrases – “You are walking on Dena’ina land” and “Living with the Outdoors.” Athabascan artist and linguist Joel Isaak helped shape the themes and phrases for the project. The artists were hired by a committee assembled by Aaron Leggett and the Anchorage Park Foundation and funded through a generous gift from Rasmuson Foundation. Learn more about the Indigenous Place Making Project.