ALASKA
JANUARY 2026
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Alaska isn’t always part of the Black history conversation, but it absolutely should be.
A new initiative called Black Lives in Alaska highlights more than 150 years of African American presence and contributions in the Last Frontier — from early pioneers and workers to activists and cultural figures — reminding us that Black history is everywhere, even where you least expect it.
Event Reported: December 21st, 2022
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Alaska just marked the end of an era with the retirement of Judge Pamela Scott Washington, the first African American woman to serve on the state’s bench.
After 15 years on the court, where she also served as Mental Health Court presiding judge and co‑chaired the Alaska Supreme Court’s diversity commission, Washington’s historic career was celebrated for breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of legal minds.
Event Reported: October 31st, 2025
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Alaska might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Black communities, but there are cities where African Americans make up a noticeable part of the population.
A new list highlights the most African American‑populated cities in the state — showing that even in the Last Frontier, Black life has roots, presence, and community worth knowing about.
Event Reported: October 1st, 2025