The June 9, 2025, Regular Assembly Meeting of the City and Borough of Juneau highlighted significant discussions surrounding the return of Mayflower Island to the Douglas Indian Association (DIA). This momentous decision marks a step towards healing historical grievances and restoring tribal stewardship over land that holds cultural significance for the community.

Dionne Cadiente Laiti, a resident of Juneau, expressed gratitude to the assembly for their resolution affirming the promise made 63 years ago to restore the land to the tribe. Laiti recounted the historical context, noting that a request for a harbor to support Native American fishermen was made in 1946, but the village was ultimately lost to a fire. The resolution represents a long-awaited acknowledgment of past injustices and a commitment to restoring what was lost.

Alyssa Glatner, an administrative support manager for the DIA, also spoke passionately about the return of Mayflower Island. She emphasized its importance as a traditional subsistence site and a place of gathering for the tribe. Glatner highlighted the collaborative efforts between the city and the DIA, noting that this transfer symbolizes a commitment to truth, reconciliation, and unity. She expressed hope for future initiatives that will benefit tribal members and strengthen community ties.

The assembly received overwhelming support for the resolution, with community members expressing their appreciation for the city’s role in this restorative process. The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism for the future, as the assembly prepares to take further steps in partnership with the DIA to honor and restore the cultural heritage of the Douglas Indian community.