Listening Session for Alaska’s VAWA STOP Implementation Planning

Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026

Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT)

The State of Alaska, Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (CDVSA), invites representatives from all 229 federally recognized tribes to a listening session. We want to hear your direct input on issues related to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

This session builds on the joint letter, current VAWA-STOP Implementation Plan, and survey recently emailed to each tribe in partnership with the Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center (AKNWRC). Your comments will help Alaska prioritize services and training needs throughout the state.

Quick Agenda:

• 10:00 – 10:15 am: Welcome and overview

• 10:15 – 11:55 am: Open tribal comment period

• 11:55 – 12:00 pm: Closing and next steps

Please note: The listening session will be recorded.

Guidance for Testimony

• To ensure we hear from as many voices as possible, we kindly ask that testimony be limited to 10 minutes or less.
• Session hosts will invite participants to speak. Please introduce yourself with your name, title/position, and the tribe or region you are representing.
• We especially welcome your insights on victim service needs and training priorities for law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, and service providers in your community and region.

If you are unable to provide oral testimony, please consider filling out our online survey so your community’s input can still be included in the new four-year STOP Plan. Alternatively, please email written comments to michael.stevenson@alaska.gov. We will continue to accept written input after the session.

Survey Link: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8766045/Written-Testimony-Form-STOP-Services-Training-Officers-and-Prosecutors-Violence-Against-Women-Formula-Grant-2026-2029