Much has happened in the years since Sealaska was last able to gather with Seattle shareholders and celebrate the holidays in 2019 – and based on the turnout at last Saturday’s holiday gathering, it was time. Sealaska welcomed approximately 1,000 shareholders and their families to the festivities. Sealaska’s staff and board of directors were excited to offer an event that provided shareholders with the opportunity to engage with Sealaska in a fun, festive environment, celebrating the best of the season and time spent together. 

Through the vendor market on the 2nd floor, the event offered artists and other makers, as well as partner organizations, a chance to connect with shareholders and show off all they had to offer. In turn, Sealaska was lucky enough to source a variety of door prizes from participating vendors such as Jesse Cook. The ten additional information booths allowed shareholders to connect with Sealaska and other Native organizations, providing details about their current priorities and activities. The informal style of the day’s activities allowed attendees time to enjoy a meal (and dessert!), visit vendor booths, drop in at the kids’ area for activities or a children-centric buffet, or visit with fellow shareholders, directors and staff.  

Shareholders and their families also had the opportunity for a special visit and photos with Santa, in addition to a festive photobooth, to capture the magic of the holidays. Find images from both the photobooth and Santa here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjB6oGc

For those in Juneau looking to share in the holiday spirit, please join us at Centennial Hall for the Unity Group Holiday Fair on Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 5 – 7 p.m.  

Sealaska actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with organizations that contribute to our mission of strengthening people, culture and homelands. A prime example is our ongoing partnership with the Unity Group – a collective of Native organizations in Juneau – since the group’s formation in 2015. After a brief hiatus due to COVID, the Unity Group has resumed hosting the annual holiday fair this December. Sealaska is honored to help sponsor and take a leadership role in the planning and execution of the Juneau Holiday Fair. 

Notably, Sealaska has been spearheading the Unity Group’s weekly meetings since October, ensuring effective coordination.  

• Unity Group Juneau Holiday Fair:
  Wednesday, Dec. 13
  Centennial Hall Convention Center, 101 Egan Drive, Juneau, AK 99801. 
• Doors Open: 4:30 p.m. 
• Event Time: 5 – 7 p.m. 

We hope to see you there! 

On behalf of all of us at Sealaska, we wish you a warm and joyful holiday season.