Bering Sea’s Natural and Cultural Heritage: Caring for the Land and People
The Bering Sea, a vast and unforgiving body of water, is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem. It is also home to the Bering Sea Native Corporation (BSNC), an Alaska Native-owned corporation that has been working for decades to protect and preserve the Bering Sea’s natural and cultural heritage.
BSNC was founded in 1971 as part of the Alaska Native Land Act. The corporation’s mission is to provide economic and social benefits to its Alaska Native Shareholders and descendants, while also protecting the Bering Sea’s environment and cultural resources.
Over the years, BSNATo expand its focus to include a wide range of initiatives that promote economic development, protect the environment, and preserve Alaska Native culture. The corporation has also worked to promote sustainable fishing practices and to support the region’s Native communities.
Today, BSNATo take the lead on a number of important Bering Sea conservation and development initiatives. These include:
- Promoting sustainable fishing practices
- Protecting endangered species
- Restoring damaged ecosystems
- Supporting Native communities
- Preserving cultural heritage
BSNC is a vital part of the Bering Sea community. The corporation’s work has helped to protect the Bering Sea’s natural and cultural heritage, while also providing economic and social benefits to the region’s Native communities.
Bering Strait Native Corporation: Preserving Culture and Empowering a Thriving Community
Nestled amidst the icy wilderness of the Bering Strait, the Bering Strait Native Corporation (BSNC) stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation for the indigenous people of the region. Embracing a spirit of stewardship and sustainability, BSNC has dedicated itself to preserving the rich cultural heritage while fostering economic prosperity and self-governance.
Embracing Cultural Identity
Cultural Preservation: BSNC proudly promotes the traditions, language, and arts of the Iñupiaq and Yup’ik peoples. Through programs such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center, they showcase their ancestors’ wisdom and connect with future generations.
Language Revitalization: Recognizing the importance of preserving their native tongue, BSNC supports language immersion programs and publishes educational materials to ensure that the Iñupiaq and Yup’ik languages continue to thrive.
Fostering Economic Empowerment
Sustainable Development: BSNC actively invests in renewable energy projects, seafood processing facilities, and other industries that create jobs and promote economic growth while respecting the fragile ecosystem of the region.
Business Ownership: Through its subsidiaries and partnerships, BSNC empowers Native entrepreneurs and businesses, providing them with access to capital, resources, and markets.
Human Capital Development: Recognizing the importance of education and workforce training, BSNC invests in programs that prepare members of the community for success in various industries.
Preserving Traditional Lands and Resources
Land Management: BSNC is the largest private landowner in Alaska, with over 900,000 acres of land. They manage these lands in accordance with traditional Iñupiaq and Yup’ik practices, ensuring their availability for subsistence hunting, fishing, and other cultural activities.
Resource Stewardship: BSNC actively collaborates with government agencies and other stakeholders to protect the region’s natural resources, such as wildlife, fisheries, and water. Their stewardship ethics ensure the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem.
Empowering Native Self-Governance
Political Representation: BSNC serves as a political advocate for its shareholders, working with local, state, and federal governments to address the needs of the indigenous communities in the region.
Tribal Collaboration: BSNC fosters collaboration among the eight tribes it represents, promoting unity and maximizing resources for community development.
Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead
BSNC has achieved remarkable economic and social success over the years. However, they recognize that the journey is ongoing. They continue to innovate and adapt, embracing new technologies and partnerships to empower the next generation of Native leaders.
Conclusion
The Bering Strait Native Corporation is a shining example of how indigenous communities can thrive while preserving their cultural heritage. Through a balanced approach that embraces sustainability, economic empowerment, and self-governance, BSNC has fostered a vibrant and resilient community that serves as a model of cultural preservation and progress.
FAQs
1. Who owns Bering Strait Native Corporation?
BSNC is owned by over 8,500 Alaska Natives who are shareholders of the corporation.
2. What is the mission of BSNC?
BSNC’s mission is to preserve Iñupiaq and Yup’ik heritage, promote economic development, and foster self-governance for Alaska Natives in the Bering Strait region.
3. What is the Bering Strait Native Corporation’s economic impact?
BSNC’s annual revenue exceeds $1 billion, and it employs over 1,000 people.
4. How does BSNC promote sustainability?
BSNC invests in renewable energy projects and promotes responsible land management practices to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Bering Strait region.
5. What is the future of BSNC?
BSNC is committed to continuing its legacy of cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and self-governance for generations to come.