Tribal buildings in Sitka go smoke-free

ANCHORAGE - Sitka tribal organizations have banned smoking in their buildings for all activities, including bingo and community gatherings.

• Photos

Sitka Tribe of Alaska and Alaska Native Brotherhood/Alaska Native Sisterhood voted for a smoking ban because of concerns for tribal members' health, said Isabella Brady, president of Alaska Native Sisterhood.

The tribal organizations are working with the Partnership for a Tobacco-free Sitka, which is advocating for a local smoke-free ordinance covering public places and work sites.