UTQIAGVIK – USA

Asisaun Toovak is the current mayor of Utqiaġvik, Alaska

Asisaun Toovak is the current mayor of Utqiaġvik, Alaska.

Utqiagvik is the northernmost city in the United States of America and is on the traditional territory of the Inupiat. Located in the North Slope Borough of Alaska, Utqiagvik is the administrative, transportation, and economic centre of the region. The city is traditionally known as Ukpeagvik which means “place where snowy owls are hunted.” Utqiagvik is on the coast of the Chukchi Sea.

“A good leader is a good servant.”

Asisaun Toovak, Mayor of Utqiagvik

“Our goal [in joining the Arctic Mayors’ Forum] is to gain knowledge and experience in other Arctic communities and bring that home to Utqiagvik. As well as gain connections with other Mayors. Share leadership ideals with other Mayors.”

– Asisaun Toovak, Mayor of Utqiagvik

Utqiagvik is in the area of the Pigniq archaeological site, which consists of 16 dwelling mounds of a culture believed to believed to have existed from 500-900 AD.

46% of the workforce is employed by the Borough, and 19% are employed by the school board. About one third of the workforce works in the private sector.

Subsistence hunting, fishing, and whaling remain a very important part of the local economy, and many people who work continue to hunt and fish for their food.

Quick facts

  • English name: City of Utqiagvik (formerly called Barrow)
  • Population: 5200

Language and culture

  • Traditional territory of: Inupiat
  • Languages spoken: English and Iñupiak
  • Utqiaġvik translates to “place where we hunt the snowy owls”

Demographics

  • 65% of the population is Inupiat
  • 10% is asian
  • 8% is white
  • 17% are other.

Other facts

  • Ilisagvik College is a tribal college in Utqiagvik
  • The oldest frame building is the Cape Smythe Whaling and Trading Station, and is in Utqiagvik.

Arctic Mayors’ Forum

  • Joined: 2024

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