Howard Rock facts for kids

Howard Rock (born August 10, 1911 – died April 20, 1976) was an important Iñupiaq leader. He was an artist, a newspaper editor, and an activist. He is remembered for his beautiful artwork and for starting the very first newspaper for Alaska Native people.

Early Life and Art

Howard Rock was born in 1911 in a place called Point Hope (also known as Tikiġaq). His Iñupiaq name was Uyaġak, which means "rock" in the Iñupiaq language.

He went to high school at White Mountain Vocational School. Later, he studied at the University of Washington for three years. After college, Howard became an artist. He was very skilled at carving ivory.

His art career was put on hold when he joined the military during World War II. After the war ended, he returned to his passion for art.

Fighting for Alaska Native Rights

In 1961, Howard Rock became very involved in helping Alaska Native people. He returned to Point Hope and became a spokesperson for his village.

Stopping Project Chariot

Howard Rock helped his community fight against a big plan called Project Chariot. The United States Atomic Energy Commission wanted to create an underwater harbor. Their plan was to explode five atomic bombs in the area near Point Hope. Howard Rock spoke out strongly against this dangerous idea.

Starting The Tundra Times

In the same year, Howard was asked to help start a newspaper. In October 1962, he founded Tundra Times. He was both the editor and publisher of this newspaper. It was the first newspaper ever created specifically for Alaska Native people.

The Tundra Times played a huge role in stopping Project Chariot. It also brought attention to the unfair treatment of the Unangan (Aleut) people. These people were almost like slaves on St. Paul Island because of the U.S. Government.

Under Howard's leadership, the newspaper grew very popular. It reached over 3,500 readers. He continued to be the editor and publisher until he passed away in 1976.

Supporting Land Claims

The Tundra Times was very important in the fight for Alaska Native land rights. This struggle eventually led to the creation of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. This law gave Alaska Native people ownership of their traditional lands.

In 1975, The Tundra Times was even nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. This is a very famous award for excellent public service in journalism. Howard Rock also received many awards himself. He was named "Alaskan of the Year" in 1974 and "49er of the Year" in 1975.

Legacy and Awards

Howard Rock passed away on April 20, 1976. His work continues to inspire people today.

The First Alaskans Institute gives out an award in his honor. It's called the Howard Rock Award. It is given each year to an outstanding Alaska Native leader.