The First Nations of the Northwest Coast of North America began their permanent settlements about 5,000 years ago where the mild climate, along with the ocean and forests’ abundance of resources, provided an excellent home. Engage and educate students with Storyboard That!
Have students create biography posters honoring the life and legacy of an indigenous person from the Northwest Coast!
Storyboard Text
Alaskan Native Civil Rights Leader
Alaskan Native Civil Rights Leader
Elizabeth Peratrovich
Elizabeth Peratrovich
"Asking you to give me equal rights implies that they are yours to give. Instead, I must demand that you stop trying to deny me the rights all people deserve."
Elizabeth Peratrovich was Native Tlingit. She was a civil rights activist who fought for equality for Alaska Natives. First Nations in Alaska were not given the same rights as whites. They were discriminated against and forced to live as second class citizens. Peratrovich and her husband spent their lives fighting for the equal rights of Native Alaskans.
"Do your laws against larceny and even murder eliminate those crimes? No law will eliminate crimes but, at least, you as legislators can assert to the world that you recognize the evil of the present situation and speak your intent to help us overcome discrimination."
2020
Feb 16, 1988
1945
July 4, 1911
Dec. 1958
Dec. 1931
Born in Petersburg, Alaska. As a member of the Lukaax̱.ádi clan of the Tlingit nation, her name was Kaaxgal.aat.
Married Roy Peratrovich. Together, they had three children.
Elizabeth gives a powerful speech in front of the Territorial Senate. Her efforts lead to the passing of the Alaska Anti-Discrimination Act.
Elizabeth dies of cancer on December 1, 1958 in Seattle, WA.
Every year on February 16, Alaskans honor her "for her courageous, unceasing efforts to eliminate discrimination and bring about equal rights in Alaska".
Elizabeth Peratrovich is honored on the gold one-dollar coin.