Editorial

The World Eskimo-Indian Olympics is almost as old as the state of Alaska, but the games it features are far older. They test strength, agility, endurance and mental tenacity with unique contests developed by the Native people who have inhabited this end of the North American continent since before recorded history.

WEIO, which begins today at the Carlson Center, both preserves those traditional contests and provides a interesting, exciting show for residents and visitors alike. This is the only place on Earth that a person can spend a few days watching the modern version of Alaska’s ancient Native games.

It all began in Fairbanks in 1961, just two years after Alaska became a state. The games were organized with the help of the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce and several local men who were familiar with Bush Alaska.

They worried that the traditional Native games and dancing would disappear as modern civilization moved into the villages. With the event still going strong decades later, WEIO has helped prevent those fears from becoming reality.

The event has more than sporting competitions and dancing exhibitions, too. There is a pageant, a baby contest, a Native regalia contest and, of course, an arts and crafts fair famous for its variety and volume.

Starting today, sporting events begin daily at

10 a.m. and are free. Evening events, which include dance performances, begin at 6 and cost $10 for adults, $8 for students and elders. For more information, go online to www.weio.org.

Next year, WEIO will celebrate its 50th anniversary, and organizers are already planning to recognize the half-century mark with special events. Compared to the hundreds or even thousands of years during which these games evolved, a half-century isn’t much. But it has been a time of great transformation in Alaska. WEIO has helped to sustain these unique traditions despite that change, and we’re all the richer for it.