Three Focus Areas
As a political division of our member Tribal governments, our work is primarily focused in three areas: Tribal consultation with government agencies on issues affecting our Native way of life; grassroots organizing in the local, statewide, and national arena; and youth empowerment and organizing in the Bristol Bay region.
Voices of Bristol Bay
We work to ensure the voices of Bristol Bay’s Tribal citizens are reaching the decision makers, elected leadership and federal agencies that make critical decisions affecting our communities. We also engage in grassroots organizing in the Bristol Bay region and beyond, ensuring that the public is engaged in and aware of the large-scale mining issues affecting Bristol Bay.
Empowering Future Leaders
We’re dedicated to preparing the future leaders of Bristol Bay - our youth. UTBB’s Youth Empowerment Project strives to help train young leaders to become effective advocates for Indigenous people, environmental justice and a sustainable future in Bristol Bay. With partners at BBNC & the UAF Bristol Campus, we co-host the Bristol Bay Youth Leadership Forum each year, bringing together Bristol Bay high school students interested in developing their leadership skills. Students prepare for leadership roles in their homes and communities, foster leadership centered in our Indigenous values through cultural activities, learn about college and vocational career opportunities, and discuss current issues impacting Native communities.
The Bristol Bay Sustainability Summit
We co-host sustainability summits with other Bristol Bay organizations, bringing together Bristol Bay residents to further strategies and action plans for a sustainable future.
The summits are organized around the results of the Bristol Bay Regional Vision Project, a comprehensive project outlining a sustainable future that honors our traditional ways of life and way of life. Click here to read the Bristol Bay Regional Vision Statement, find a graphic representation of the vision by clicking here, and click here for more information about the development of the vision statement.
Read about past Bristol Bay Sustainability Summits and watch videos here.
