Rev. Dr. Chief Anna Frank: Wisdom, resilience, cultural preservation

Reverend Doctor Chief Anna Frank is a name synonymous with unwavering dedication to her community. At 82, she continues to inspire and lead, drawing on decades of experience as a health educator, community leader and spiritual guide. Her story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring importance of cultural traditions.

Born and raised in Old Minto, Alaska, Anna Frank's journey began in a small village where she was deeply influenced by her aunt, the first health aide in their community.

"I learned early on the importance of caring for others," she recalls. "It was more than a job, it was a calling, something that was deeply rooted in our culture."

Despite the challenges of balancing work and education, Anna earned her GED through night school, a significant achievement at a time when educational opportunities for Native women were limited. Her perseverance paid off when she became the first health educator and supervisor at the Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC). This role was just the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to service.

Journey to priesthood

Anna's journey took a significant turn when she was ordained as a deacon and later as a priest, making history as the first Native woman to hold such a position in the Episcopal Church in the United States.

"When the opportunity came, I asked my late husband, Richard, for his thoughts. He said, 'If you don't do it, who will?' That was all the encouragement I needed," she recalls with a smile. Richard's unwavering support was a cornerstone of her decision, and she often reflects on how his belief in her mission helped her navigate the challenges of leadership.

However, her journey to priesthood was not without obstacles. There was resistance, especially from those who questioned a woman's role in such a position. But Anna's faith and determination were stronger. "I always believed that if something is meant to be, no one can stand in its way," she says. Her ordination was not just a personal victory but a significant milestone for indigenous women everywhere.

Anna's faith has always been a guiding force in her life, particularly during times of personal hardship. Later in life, she battled stage 4 cancer in her stomach and lungs. The diagnosis was grim, and doctors did not expect her to survive. Anna's faith, coupled with the unwavering support of her community, played a crucial role in her recovery, she says.

"I believe in the power of prayer. The doctors said it was a miracle, but I knew it was the strength of my people's prayers that pulled me through."

The power of community is a recurring theme in Anna's life. "In our culture, we don't face challenges alone. We come together, and we support each other. That's how we survive," she explains.

Sharing and healing

One of the most critical aspects of Anna's work has been her focus on trauma healing, particularly for Alaska Native women. Drawing from her own experiences with trauma-ranging from the lasting impacts of boarding school to her own family dynamics-Anna has developed a holistic approach to healing that emphasizes the importance of talking about the hurt.

"You can't heal what you don't acknowledge," she says. Her workshops, which often include storytelling, drawing, and burning ceremonies, provide a safe space for participants to confront their past and begin the healing process.

'Our culture is our strength'

Anna's commitment to preserving and passing on cultural values, traditions and language is another cornerstone of her life's work. She believes that these elements are essential to maintaining a strong sense of identity, particularly for younger generations. "Our culture is our strength. It's what grounds us, especially in difficult times," she says. Anna encourages young people to take pride in their heritage and to understand the importance of where they come from. "You have to know your roots to stand strong," she adds.

Ongoing advocacy

In her retirement, Anna continues to be active. She often advises elders on end-of-life care, stressing the importance of dignity and respect. She is also a vocal advocate for Native self-governance, land rights, and ensuring that Native voices are heard in decision-making processes that affect their communities.

"We have to be our own advocates. No one knows our needs better than we do," she asserts.

Anna's wisdom also extends to the broader challenges facing Native communities, including the housing crisis for elders, the lack of motivation among youth, and the impacts of climate change. On the latter, she shares a particularly poignant insight: "Climate change is happening, and it's happening fast. But we have the knowledge to adapt. We've been doing it for generations. It's about teaching the younger ones to be strong and to adapt positively."

Her dedication to mentorship remains unwavering, particularly when it comes to her own family. She is currently mentoring her grandson, teaching him leadership skills and preparing him to carry on her legacy.

"It's important to pass on what we know. That's how our traditions survive," she explains.

Anna's life and work have not gone unrecognized. In 2019, she was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, a fitting tribute to her decades of service. "It was a great honor," she says, "but the real reward has always been the ability to serve my people."

Anna also spent several years serving on the Alaska Commission on Aging, encouraging more engagement with rural communities.

"Life is about service," she says. "It's about giving back to your community and ensuring that the next generation is equipped to carry on the work. That's how we survive, and that's how we thrive."

We wish Rev. Dr. Chief Anna Frank a wonderful birthday. If you are interested in connecting with her, email neverlandvisions@gmail.com.

Athena Elise Barber is an MFA student and writer living in Fairbanks.