KatirviK
means gathering place
Over 30 years ago, the Katirvik Cultural Center began as a vision shared among Elders of the region to celebrate, educate and share the rich culture and heritage of the Bering Strait. Through dedication to the vision of the Elders, the Katirvik Cultural Center celebrated its grand opening in October 2016 as the first cultural center in the region. The Kawerak Elders Advisory Committee continues to be a guiding voice for the Katirvik and provides advice on important issues such as repatriation. The Katirvik is tribally owned and operated by the 20 tribes of the Bering Strait region, and administered by Kawerak, Inc.
OUR MISSION
Preserve, Celebrate, Share, Educate
“The mission of the Katirvik Cultural Center (KCC) is to preserve, celebrate, share and educate about the unique Indigenous knowledge and cultures of the Bering Strait Region of Alaska. KCC strives to inspire cooperative dialogue and improve cultural awareness in its communities and visitors through programs in the arts, sciences and the humanities.”
Events and Happenings
7 Circles
Land and water acknowledgement
Honoring the Stewards of the Land
The Bering Strait Region is the historic and contemporary home to 20 Tribes. As we continue to work toward strengthening collaborative relationships, it is important that we acknowledge the homelands and waters of the Inupiaq, Central Yup’ik and St. Lawrence Island Yupik Peoples.
These lands and waters are alive. Over the course of thousands of years, the land and waters have continued to provide traditional foods and support Indigenous ways of life. They have influenced Indigenous languages, spirituality and relationships, both with our environment and with each other, across communities.
We acknowledge the homelands and waters of the Indigenous Peoples of the Bering Strait Region, and honor Inupiaq, St. Lawrence Island Yupik and Central Yup’ik ancestral and contemporary stewardship.