who sponsored the first state-wide alaska native gathering
Alaska Federation of Natives The Alaska Federation of Natives was formed in October 1966, when more than 400 Alaska Natives representing 17 Native organizations gathered for a three-day conference to address Alaska Native aboriginal land rights. The 1968 discovery of oil prompted Native leaders to push for a land claims settlement with unprecedented urgency.[4] It was officially incorporated on January 8, 1970.[5] From 1966 to 1971, AFN worked primarily to achieve passage of a just and fair land settlement. On December 18, 1971, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) was signed into law.