The Bering Sea Elders Group (BSEG) and Kawerak have both released public statements opposing U.S. Supreme Court justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh.

Kawerak Inc. issued a statement earlier this month (September 10) urging Sen. Lisa Murkowski to vote “no” on Brett Kavanaugh. They expressed concern that Kavanaugh’s support of “state’s rights” could affect subsistence protections for Alaska Natives. The Supreme Court is set to hear Sturgeon v. Frost on November 5, in a case that could impact control of Alaska waters.

The BSEG echoes the concerns of Kawerak and other Native rights’ groups around the country, stating in a press release what they call a misunderstanding of the “inherent status, rights, and roles of federally recognized Tribes.” They are also concerned that his judicial interpretation between federal and tribal governments could put programs like the Indian Child Welfare Act and the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act at risk.

The group also called for an investigation of Kavanaugh after three women have now accused him of sexual assault and attempted rape. Kavanaugh denies the allegations.

Image at top: Brett Kavanaugh stands outside the Oval Office in the White House, Washington, D.C. Date unknown. Photo: White House, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.