Caps for Cops offer traditions and warmth

A unique program is underway in Fairbanks in which local police officers are learning to make beaver hats from Native elders, while learning about Native traditions and cultures.

Hosted by the Interior regional non-profit elder organization Denakkanaaga, the sewing sessions are held over several weeks, with the result being a warm hat the officers can wear while on duty in the winter. Four officers are paired with four elders to make the hats in each session.

This is the second round of the program with more to follow so that, ultimately, all officers will have a hat. The idea for the program was introduced by former Fairbanks police officer Kurt Lockwood to Fairbanks Police Chief Ron Dupee several years ago.

"Programs like this one are important because it allows our officers, especially those who are new to Fairbanks, an opportunity to engage more with those we serve in the community," Police Chief Dupee said.

Denakkanaaga Executive Director Sharon McConnell added, "We're happy that our elders are able to share their knowledge, both on hat making and our Native ways, because it helps build a better relationship with the police department."

One of the officers from the first round, Officer Sean Lai said, "I had such a great time connecting and working with everyone at Denakkanaaga. It was such a great experience to learn, work and create my beautiful beaver hat. Miranda Wright was the best teacher I could have asked for. She was so inviting and patient with me throughout the entire process. She treated me like one of her own and we even joked about her being my new grandmother. I got to learn so much about her culture and I got to share a little of my culture with everyone. I even brought my children along with me to get to meet everyone and it's an experience that I will carry with me. I hope this program continues not only with my department but with other departments here in Fairbanks."

Lt. Amy Davis, another officer from the first round, said, "When police officers engage in shared activities with elders from different cultures, they unravel the threads of misunderstanding and weave bonds of respect. Through these simple yet profound

interactions, they come to know the heart of a community, learning that true service begins with connection and understanding."

Another participant, Sgt. Stephen Hancock said, "What I enjoyed most was not making the hats, that was just a plus. The best aspect of it for me was gaining a new level of knowledge and respect for the culture and experiences of all the Aunties I got to spend time with."

The elders who are teaching the officers are originally from various Interior Alaskan villages, including Huslia, Minto and Nulato. Hunting, trapping and making hats, boots and garments were part of their lives growing up in the remote areas. They say they are happy to meet with the officers.

Vernell Titus, who is 83 and originally from Minto, has taught officers in both rounds of the program. She said that she enjoys this opportunity, because "it allows me to interact with them on a personal level, so I get to know them better, and teach them our traditions." Ms. Titus stated that her mother always told her to help others, so she is carrying that on.

Another elder teacher, 86-year-old Marie Yaska, originally of Huslia, said, "It's like working with my grandchildren, which I enjoy." Ms. Yaska said she learned how to sew when she was young, because it was a necessity since they lived so far away from stores and had no money to buy clothing. "It is nice to share my knowledge with them, and that they're learning from us," she said.

In 2023, FPD officers Sean Lai, Clint Brubeck, Stephen Hancock and Lt. Amy Davis completed the first Caps for Cops session. Their instructors were elders Marie Yaska, Vernell Titus, Dr. Rev. Anna Frank, Dr. Elizabeth Fleagle, and Miranda Wright. The current session that is underway includes Officer Joseph Butler, Officer Jennifer Mathna, Sgt. Caleb Reuter, and Detective Mayra Reyes. The elders teaching them are Miranda Wright, Marie Yaska, Edith Thomas and Vernell Titus.

More sessions are planned, so that ultimately all officers interested in the program can sew a hat.

Sharon McConnell is the Denakkanaaga executive director.