Petersburg’s Tribal Council has a new member. Brandon Ware was appointed to the seat at last week’s meeting.
“My name’s Brandon Ware, my English name. My Lingít name’s ShaaL’aanee, and my clanhouse is from Wrangell,” he said. “I’m a lifelong Petersburg resident, but my clan[house] is the Chief Shakes house out of there. And growing up around here I’ve always appreciated the work done by the Council.”
Ware is 24 years old, making him the youngest on the council. He told council members that growing up, he participated in the Petersburg Indian Association’s cultural programs, potlucks, and assistance programs.
“I’ve definitely benefited from it, it’s made a huge impact on who I am today,” he said. “And helped me to come into my identity as a Lingit man. And so as a result, it’s given me a great appreciation for you guys. And it’s also inspired me to want to serve our people.”
The council voted unanimously to appoint Ware to the seat.
Petersburg Indian Association Tribal Council is made up of six council members and the Tribal president. The sixth seat had been vacant since January, when council member Joseph Stewart stepped down. The same night, three new council members and a new council president were sworn in after winning a landslide election. But Stewart told KFSK at the time that the resignation was not a reflection of his feelings about the new council. He said it just seemed like the right time to step aside and make room for new ideas.
“I’m always encouraging young people to step up, I’m always encouraging people [to] get involved, you know, have a voice,” he said.
The council put out a call for letters of interest for the vacant seat last month. Ware was the only person who submitted a letter. The seat will be up for re-election in January of 2025.
