Culture, Culture Everywhere!

Module III Essential Question: Is there an "Alaskan" culture? How could it be described? There definitely is an Alaskan culture. I would not have understood this if I had never lived here.I am just beginning to understand parts of the culture in the area in and around Fairbanks. I have learned about the culture around Fairbanks from touring the Museum of Alaska at the University of Fairbanks and the Morris Thompson Cultural Center. Meeting Athabascan Natives has also been a way to learn about a part of Alaskan culture. I would describe the "Alaskan" culture as that of the northern people who are survivors holding true to their traditions and culture. The people here are hardy due to the weather conditions. Their priorities are more focused on survival. It is refreshing that a fur coat is not something to be ashamed of but something that is valued as a tool to keep one warm in the frigid temperatures. After reviewing the information in this module and reading James Michener's, Alaska, it is evident that Alaska natives have been exploited by other cultures over and over again. They now stand up for what is theirs with a strong voice through the Alaska Federation of Natives. Examine: What is your concept of culture? My concept of culture is how one grows up. Culture is your environment from family,traditions,geographical location, ancestory, political views, to values and beliefs. Culture is all encompassing. It is very easy to judge a group of people by looking from the outside. As addressed in this module, it is important to delve deep into a group's culture before making judgements of any kind. I am learning to respect the "Alaskan" culture with every new adventure that comes my way. Evaluate: Once again, this module is taking me to a deeper level of understanding the Alaska Native culture. The one common theme I noticed between all the Native tribes is sharing what they have with their group. This is so uncommon in my independent western culture. I do not completely understand this part of the Alaska Native culture.