Abstract
This Note begins by describing the current status of Alaska Natives. It next explains the doctrine of tribal sovereign immunity as a necessary component of sovereignty. It then briefly summarizes Atkinson and Stevens Village, analyzing some of the distinctions made between Alaska Natives and Lower 48 Indians. Specifically, this Note explores the Alaska Supreme Court's divergent treatment of tribes living on reservations and Native groups living in villages. It argues that this troublesome distinction is no longer relevant and urges courts to focus instead on historical and present-day cultural realities of Alaska Natives in determining sovereignty issues. Finally, this Note concludes that the current threat to tribal sovereign immunity in Alaska is a result of congressional neglect of Alaska Natives. In addition to suggesting that the special Senate committee urge Congress to enact legislation that would overturn Stevens Village, this Note advocates a more activist congressional posture toward Alaska, so that the clear federal goal of self-determination can be reached.
How to Cite
31 Ariz. L. Rev. 405 (1989)
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