Alaska Native Elder Is First American Counted in Census. Lizzie Chimiugak, a resilient inhabitant of the rugged Alaskan wilderness, has spent nine decades navigating life’s challenges. Born into a nomadic family dwelling in mud homes, her existence has been intertwined with the ebb and flow of nature’s bounty, following the rhythms of hunting and fishing.
Today, her abode rests in Toksook Bay, an isolated outpost on the shores of the Bering Sea. On Tuesday, she made history as the inaugural participant in the U.S. Census, a decennial ritual crucial for allocating congressional representation and federal resources.
In her native Yup’ik tongue, Lizzie reflected on this milestone, acknowledging the role of predecessors and embracing her newfound status as an elder. The census holds particular significance in rural Alaska, where tradition and logistical constraints necessitate early enumeration before the spring thaw renders many areas inaccessible.
Despite facing weather-induced delays, Steven Dillingham, director of the census bureau, embarked on a snowmobile journey to Chimiugak’s residence to conduct the inaugural interview. Despite the brevity of the encounter, the symbolic significance was not lost on observers.
Following the census proceedings, the community gathered at Nelson Island School for a jubilant celebration, featuring traditional dances and a feast of Alaska Native delicacies. Tribal administrator Robert Pitka expressed hope that the event would showcase Yup’ik pride and resilience to the wider world.
However, amid the festivities, Chimiugak voiced concerns about the looming specter of climate change and its potential impact on future generations’ subsistence activities. Her worries echoed sentiments shared by many in the community, underscoring the pressing need for environmental stewardship.
Lizzie’s life journey embodies the tenacity and adaptability of her people. From her humble beginnings amidst the Great Depression to her role as a matriarch and cultural custodian, she has weathered life’s storms with grace and fortitude. Through her storytelling, weaving, and dance, she imparts invaluable wisdom to younger generations, ensuring that her legacy endures.
