February 16, 2024, by Lisa Teas Conaway

Sitka Sound Science Center is closed February 16th in honor of Elizabeth Peratrovich.

A woman unafraid to stand up for what is right. 

Elizabeth and her husband, both Lingít and indigenous to theses lands, became advocates for anti-discrimination after facing it in public themselves. Outraged at signs saying ‘whites only’ they demanded justice and helped to pass a bill through the Alaska government.

During legislative sessions where she and her husband championed the bill granting civil rights to all she addressed the house stating, “No law will eliminate crimes but at least you as legislators can assert to the world that you recognize the evil of the present situation and speak your intent to help us overcome discrimination.”

On February 16, 1945, Alaska Governor Gruening approved the country’s first anti-discrimination law. Granting all citizens the rights to full and equal enjoyment of accommodations, such as restraints, hotels, bathrooms, theaters and more.

It took an additional 19 years before President Lyndon Johnson signed the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 banning discrimination in any form across the United States.

Today we reflect on a woman who stood up for what is right unflinching in the face of adversity. Please take a moment to reflect on your own lives and find inspiration in Elizabeth Peratrovich’s determination.

Read more about Elizabeth Peratrovich’s story here.