 by Don Hoff Jr. December 04, 2004
I am trying to unite my people and to focus on real world issues that will affect our and their family, Clan and Tribe before we lose anymore of our history, culture, language, customs and way of life. Yes, I am presently living in Hixson, TN - and so what? My loyalties are to my family, Clan and Tribe. Regardless where I live in this world it doesn't change who I am. The proposed bridge to Gravina Island via Pennock Island project is a waste of my and your federal tax dollars for a few opulent people that will benefit from this proposed project. Not only will they waste $240 million dollars and another $200 million on a new bridge to nowhere in Anchorage, Alaska, they will desecrate our Tribal graves on Pennock Island which I want to protect. Now, it really doesn't matter where I live to have an opinion. We already know that life is not fair and it has everything to do with my skin color and heritage. We may not like the cards that are dealt to us but we can throw in our cards and get dealt new cards. That's what I am trying to achieve. I am experienced enough in politics to try or make positive changes for our people and even change a few minds. I agree with you about evolution is inevitable. I don't believe assimilation into the non-native society is the right thing. I believe we will have to give up what is left of our culture; history, subsistence and our way of life would be gone forever. I believe all are worth protecting to perpetuate our culture and identity. In closing, I will never give up my Native Rights, God given Rights, Subsistence Rights, and Cultural Rights to anyone. You witnessed Alaskan Native people at the Blue Fox Café on Front Street in Ketchikan, Alaska being denied to dine in that café, what did you do? Just what I thought you would do, nothing. Don Hoff Jr.
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