Bill Walker and Byron Mallott were sworn in as Alaska’s governor and lieutenant governor on Monday. That evening, members of Juneau’s Native community welcomed the new leaders during a public reception at the Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall.
Richard Peterson is president of the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. During the reception’s opening remarks, Peterson said it was an honor to be part of Walker and Mallott’s 250-person transition team.
“Usually we’re always the minority everywhere we go and it was just really heartwarming to look around and see so many Native leaders in roles of expertise. Our input, our opinions mattered, and it’s hard not to get emotional about that,” Peterson said.
Originally, Walker and Mallott, both Alaska-born, campaigned separately each running for the governor seat.
“What a reflection that was that you two were able to put egos aside for our state and choose to work together for a unity ticket. And whether you’re Democrat or Republican, it feels like we finally have Alaskans fighting for Alaskans. Gunalchéesh,” Peterson said.
The Mount St. Elias Dancers of Yakutat danced at the inauguration and the reception. Mallott is originally from Yakutat. The group’s J.P.Buller said many of them are in Mallott’s family, either part of his clan or married into it.
“I’d just like to tell you, Byron, how proud we are of you, how much we love you. You represent us so well. We admire you and we hope to have your integrity, your values and your constitution to stick with us. You’re an inspiration to see what some determination and hard work can do,” Buller said.
During one of the last songs, Mallott danced with the group wearing a custom Native “unity” vest that matches with Walker’s.
