Native

I officially finished my third week of my Fellowship!  I’ve learned so much in Senator Olson’s office in such a short time span.  Before coming here I knew very little about politics and how laws were made and now I’m part of the process.  The staff in Olson’s office is the leading reason for my new found knowledge in the legislature, especially the chief of staff, David Scott.  David is also from Ketchikan is a great teacher and is really helping me to get involved in many degrees.  He lets me help carry legislation, write documents, attend committee meetings and informational lectures, answers any questions I have and introduces me to other people that work in the building.  So far, I can see a future for myself in politics and enjoy learning new things every day.    

Last week, my cousin Barbie Blake, came to Juneau with her UAF students and met with many legislators and other influential people so UAF students could learn more about the legislative process.  I was invited to attend any lectures I wanted and went to a couple every day.  Through the UAF rural program I got to meet the Governor, legislators, Sealaska employees and board members, etc.  I have also been attending the UAS Legislative Intern weekly seminar series.  I met the Professor in Kodiak at a leadership conference and he agreed to let me sit in on his classes for free.

Besides enjoying my time in the Capitol, I have also been getting to know the Juneau community.  Each time I go to a community event it’s like a family reunion because I run into many aunts, uncles, cousins, ninth cousin twice removed, etc.    Last weekend I volunteered all day for the Tinaa Art Auction and also modeled for Yukon fashion designer, Brenda Lee Asp’s clothing line.  Modeling isn’t typically my “cup of tea”, but the Native American fashion show host whipped me into shape with her Hollywood attitude!  This weekend I will be checking out First Friday Art Walk, attending Tlingit/Haida’s weekly gathering where people go to work on Native Arts, attending the Alaska Native Oratory Competition UAS campus, and going to my fourth cousin’s (also known as my uncle) house to learn the Haida language.  He is in his fourth semester at UAS in the Haida Language learning class and has invited me to their weekly language practice sessions and informal potlucks.  I will also be moving out of my current living situation and moving into a house that used to be the Governor’s House.