Voice of Justice: Celebrating Elizabeth Voice of Justice: Celebrating Elizabeth Peratrovich Day

In this episode of "Raven About Sitka," host Kathrynn honors Elizabeth Wanamaker Peratrovich, a trailblazer in Alaska’s civil rights movement. Kathrynn recounts Elizabeth’s life, her pivotal 1945 speech that led to Alaska’s anti-discrimination law, and the annual Elizabeth Peratrovich Day celebrations on February 16th. The episode highlights community events, student reflections, and the ongoing relevance of Elizabeth’s legacy, urging listeners to continue advocating for justice and representation. Kathrynn's storytelling inspires listeners to remember Elizabeth’s courage and to take action against discrimination in their own lives.

Episode Transcript

(00:15):
Welcome back to Raven about Sitka.I'm Kathrynn, your host and
unofficial fog whisperer.Now, usually we dig into local
legends, ecological wonders,or deep rooted history.
But today,we're taking an interesting turn.
A smooth, jam band infused turn.Let me ask you something strange.

(00:39):
What does Dave Matthews Band have todo with Sitka? The short answer?
Practically nothing.The better answer? Everything.
If you squint hard enough andlet the saxophone carry you.
Let's start with geography.As Dave Matthews Band ever
performed in Sitka? Nope. Not once.Not even a tiny acoustic set

(01:00):
behind the Totem Square Hotel.The closest they've come is
probably Seattle, which,if you count Alaskan closeness,
is only about 900 miles away by Ravenor a Dave Matthews solo if you're
feeling metaphorical but vibes,let's talk vibes.
Sitka is wrapped in forests,mist and the ever present rhythm

(01:22):
of rain on rooftops.Dave Matthews Band especially in
songs like satellite, The DreamingTree or Don't Drink the Water,
leans into those introspective,nature steeped themes.
You could easily imagine one oftheir tracks playing as you hike
Harbor Mountain,or stare at the sea from Castle Hill.

(01:43):
It's like Dave was emotionallypre-approved by the Sitka landscape.
Here's where it gets a little real.Dave Matthews Band isn't just
about jam sessions and winefueled dancing on the lawn.
They're serious about the planet.They've partnered with reverb and
an environmental group that helpsmake concerts more sustainable.

(02:04):
They've offset thousands of tons ofCO2, and they even use biodiesel for
their tour buses. Sound familiar?Sitka's love for the Tongass
National Forest.Our community's commitment to
sustainable fishing and our leavethe whales better than you found
them attitude aligns nicely withDave Matthews Band values.

(02:27):
It's like Sitka and Dave are penpals in spirit, just musical and
moss covered. Also true story.Someone once claimed they played
crash Into Me on a Bluetooth speakerduring a whale watch tour in Sitka,
and a humpback breached inperfect sync with the chorus.
Is that verifiable? Nope.Is it spiritually true? Absolutely.

(02:50):
And tell me Grace is gone.Wouldn't hit differently.
While watching fog roll in overthe harbor with a mug of Ravens
brew in hand.So no, Dave Matthews hasn't headlined
Harrigan Hall or played a surpriseset at Baranof Island Brewing yet.
Dave, if you're listening, call me.But maybe Sitka doesn't need a

(03:11):
tour date to connect with DaveMatthews Band.
Maybe the connection lives in theshared reverence for the earth,
the rhythm of the wild, and thatunspoken feeling when the forest
huskies just before a raven calls.We may not share a stage,
but we share a soul.Thanks for joining me in this
delightfully offbeat episode ofRaven about Sitka.

(03:34):
Next time someone asks you if Sitkahas any connection to the Dave
Matthews Band, you can say nope.And also. Yes. Spiritually.
Emotionally. Ecologically.And that, my friends, is enough.
Until next time, keep your head up.Try to listen to your heart and

(03:55):
be kind. Always. No matter.