What began as an emergency response has become a long-term success story for Alaska’s workforce, economy and communities.
Word of Life Church serves a congregation of about 300 Slavic people in Delta Junction. Photographed on May 6, 2025. , urging that Ukrainian refugees who have built lives and careers in Alaska be allowed to remain here.
This advocacy highlights a truth many Alaskans recognize: These families are no longer temporary guests. They are valued members of our communities, contributing daily to our state’s vitality. As May 21 approaches, Alaska marks a significant milestone — nearly four years since the first Ukrainian refugees arrived, fleeing Russia’s full-scale invasion that uprooted millions. For those of us involved from the start — coordinating evacuations, securing travel and supporting initial resettlement — this anniversary prompts reflection on what made the effort succeed. Alaska acted decisively and effectively.Alaskans responded with impressive resolve: Volunteers, churches, businesses, nonprofits and local governments united to welcome families who arrived with little beyond determination and hope. This broad, grassroots support was the foundation of successful integration.to welcome displaced Ukrainians. That prompt condemnation and supportive stance provided crucial credibility and reassurance when uncertainty was highest. It signaled to families in peril that Alaska was a place of safety and opportunity. His consistent backing since then, including the recent direct appeal to extend protections, has helped sustain and strengthen this commitment.Today, Ukrainians are embedded across Alaska’s communities. They fill essential roles in schools, health care facilities, pharmacies, engineering firms, construction, child care and agriculture — often addressing chronic labor shortages. Their skills, work ethic and energy are making a tangible difference. Alaska has long battled population decline and workforce gaps. By choosing our state and thriving here, these newcomers are helping reverse those trends, bolstering our economy and infrastructure at a critical time.This is a genuine two-way success: Ukrainian families have found security, stability and purpose, while Alaska gains dedicated residents who strengthen our future.Nearly four years later, the lesson is evident: When Alaska steps up with resolve and compassion, remarkable things happen. Ukrainian families, through their hard work and integration, are repaying that welcome by building a more resilient state for all of us.We extend our thanks to Dunleavy for once again showing the leadership essential to our state’s future by working to allow these families to stay and continue contributing to Alaska.is executive director of Project Alaska Inc. and has been involved in the resettlement and workforce integration of Ukrainian refugees since the beginning of the war.Portland has a wonky secret to building cheaper houses. Other cities are copying.
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