The Urgent Need to Relocate in Kwigillingok

In the small village of Kwigillingok, Alaska, environmental challenges have been relentless, culminating in a dramatic event when the remnants of Typhoon Halong struck in October. Houses, along with the hopes of their inhabitants, were uprooted and set adrift by the flooding.

Noah Andrew Sr., a 74-year-old resident, experienced this firsthand as his home was set afloat, eventually moving two miles inland. Although he managed to stay safe, the incident was a catalyst for his decision to leave the village forever.

Climate Change: A Persistent Threat

The people of Kwigillingok have long faced the consequences of climate change. Thawing permafrost and aggressive erosion have increased the residents' vulnerability. With the palpable threat of more severe weather, relocating the village to a safer location has become a pressing issue.

Historically, the U.S. government established these communities near educational facilities without considering climate risks, highlighting a lack of foresight that now demands urgent attention and intervention.

Culture at Risk

The situation poses cultural threats as well. Evacuations to urban centers mean that residents risk losing their traditional language and lifestyle, which are cornerstones of the Yup'ik culture. Maintaining cultural identity becomes challenging as language and traditions may fade in city environments.

Challenges and Costs of Relocation

Suggestions to relocate the village face obstacles, both financial and logistical. Previous efforts at moving communities, like those in Newtok and Isle de Jean Charles, demonstrated high costs and numerous complications. Nonetheless, the community's resolve to seek a safer future remains strong.

There is hope that recent events will garner more government support. Residents like Darrel John are optimistic yet wary, eager to see commitments to their safety turn into concrete action.

The Path Forward: A Community's Hope

As the community waits, the residents continue to rely on their resilience. They hope that plans to move to a new, elevated location will soon come to fruition, allowing them to continue their cultural traditions in a safer environment, while being mindful of the lessons and challenges from previous relocation efforts.

Ultimately, the choice to move is interwoven with maintaining cultural connections and ensuring safety. Residents advocate for continued use of their current village for subsistence activities, preserving a link to the past even as they look to the future.