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Elizabeth Peratrovich Day 2024 (US): History with Fascinating Facts

Elizabeth Peratrovich Day, observed on February 16, honors the American activist who contributed to racial equality in Alaska. Despite not being officially recognized as a federal holiday, Alaskan institutions and stores close in observance.

Elizabeth Peratrovich Day 2024 (US): Elizabeth Peratrovich Day is observed on February 16 to honor the accomplishments of the American activist who significantly contributed to the progression of racial equality in Alaska. Communities all over Alaska honor Peratrovich on this day as a sign of respect for the life she devoted to advancing equal rights for Native Alaskans.

While not officially acknowledged as a federal holiday in the United States, several institutions, stores, and establishments in Alaska choose to close in observance of this day.

History regarding Elizabeth Peratrovich Day:

Elizabeth Peratrovich, a Tlingit activist, faced racial prejudice at a young age. She relocated to Juneau, Alaska, in 1933 to advocate for reform. Peratrovich and her spouse, Roy, fought for anti-discrimination legislation in 1943. In 1945, the enactment of the Anti-Discrimination Act represented a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against racial discrimination. Peratrovich was laid to rest in Juneau’s Evergreen Cemetery at the age of 47. In 1988, the establishment of Elizabeth Peratrovich Day came to be, and her legacy lives on through various monuments and parks.

Elizabeth Peratrovich Day 2024 (US): FAQs

In Alaska, what is Civil Rights Day?

The Alaska legislature designated the 16th of February as Elizabeth Peratrovich Day or Alaska Civil Rights Day.

What exactly did Elizabeth Peratrovich achieve?

In 1945, Peratrovich led the way in enacting Alaska’s Anti-Discrimination Act, making it pioneering legislation in the United States.

Does Elizabeth Peratrovich continue to reside?

Elizabeth Peratrovich, who had been battling cancer since the age of 47, died in 1958.

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An Analog of the Observance of Elizabeth Peratrovich Day:

Explore her legacy through literature, documentaries, and museum exhibits.
Learn more about her life and activism through available resources, such as the video “For the Rights of All: Ending Jim Crow in Alaska” and podcasts like “She’s History.”
Visit the Peratrovich Gallery of the Alaska House of Representatives or the National Museum of the American Indian at the Smithsonian Institute to learn more about her life and work.

Five Fascinating Facts About Elizabeth Peratrovich:

Alaska’s 1945 Anti-Discrimination Act made it the first state to outlaw racial discrimination since the 19th century.
Peratrovich’s sons continued her legacy, contributing to Alaska’s history and indigenous rights.
Peratrovich was famous for knitting during parliamentary sessions, and she even knitted during her renowned 1945 speech to the House.
Her 1945 speech received widespread praise for its eloquence and impact.
Peratrovich was a fan of professional wrestling, particularly admiring wrestler Gorgeous George.