Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat was formed in 2015 as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation, creating a communication network amongst Arctic Slope communities to establish a unified voice for our region and people. Today, our twenty-four member organizations work together to ensure that our collective voice is heard and respected – locally, regionally and nationally.
Under our current structure, the VOICE is largely funded by Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC) and grants from the North Slope Borough (NSB). The generosity of ASRC and the NSB means that membership is not determined by an organization’s ability to pay member dues. By removing the financial burden of membership dues, our region’s entities will always have a voice at our table.
Our Purpose
- Provide local advocacy and engagement to state, federal and international forums addressing Arctic issues;
- Promote an understanding of the North Slope economy and encourage culturally responsible development for economic sustainability;
- Develop local content and responses with respect to activities within our region that allow for protection of our land, waters and subsistence resources;
- Become the local knowledge center for our communities and people regarding developments in the Arctic Slope region;
- Act to protect the interests of Arctic Slope Iñupiat;
- Be a conduit for information transfer with outside organizations, including both governmental and non-governmental entities.
Our Goals
Address and participate in legislation, regulations and government programs to protect Iñupiat culture
Increase communication and information-sharing amongst organizations of the North Slope
Ensure the development of North Slope natural resources in a safe and responsible manner
Promote Iñupiat stewardship of the North Slope and stimulate the North Slope economy
