Ultimate Importance of Family to Alaska Natives

Like ripples in the water, Alaska Natives families influence all aspects of life with the Creator in the center. The circles get progressively larger to show the surrounding warmth around the children; mothers, sisters, aunts and elder women; fathers, uncles, brothers and elder men and finally all others in the community.

Women are the caregivers of the family, primarily responsible for nurturing children. Men hunt and protect their families while elders provide wisdom and guidance, hence their important role in the Native family.

Native families and communities whose lives are based on this circle are happy, loved and protected.

When we stand in the circle demonstrating the family structure, we ask each other questions such as these:

Men, what do you see?
Answers: My family, my children, The Creator

Women, how do you feel?
Answers: Important, Valued, Available

Elders, what do you see?
Answers: Everyone, the family working together

Children how do you feel?
Answers: Loved, Safe, Protected