What is the role of native corporations and have they responded socially responsible? ANCSA was unique in that it used capitalism and the corporate business model in setting up the framework of development for the Alaska Native Corporations. The corporations are autonomous, self-sufficient businesses that provide jobs, fund education, healthcare, social and cultural services.
Since their creation, the 12 regional corporations and over 200 village corporations have stimulated Alaska’s economic development. One of the first projects was the construction of the existing oil pipeline which benefits all Alaskans. The corporations are owned primarily by Native people who live in Alaska. They are staffed predominantly by Alaskan residents. Revenue from these corporations are either reinvested in other Alaskan businesses, paid in salaries or dividends to Alaskans. A main goal of the corporations is to foster sustainable growth and development in Alaskan owned businesses. The business model used varies from corporation to corporation.
In my opinion, the major social risk of programs that pay dividends without requiring action from the person receiving it is the decline of their work ethic as generations grow up with this benefit. I believe this is a major cost to the very people it is suppose to benefit.
In the end, it seems to me the extrinsic social and economic benefits outweigh the extrinsic costs of the Native corporations.
Lisa Pullen
Please note the upcoming blog 'What Rights Do Alaska Natives Have to Alaska lands and its associated wealth'
ReplyDeleteMatthew G