Alaskans from across the state are being asked to converge in downtown Anchorage on Friday, Dec. 11, 2026, for a peaceful citizen assembly hosted by the Alaska Grand Jurors Association. The event runs from noon to 6 p.m. at the Atwood Building, 550 West 7th Avenue, which houses the governor’s Anchorage office.
Why the timing matters
The assembly is scheduled to begin immediately after Alaska’s newly‑elected governor is sworn in. Organizers say the first message to the new administration should be clear: residents demand transparency and accountability in the state’s judicial system.
Two specific requests
Participants will present a petition asking the governor to appoint an independent commission to investigate systemic problems within Alaska’s courts. They will also call for the release of a sealed grand‑jury recommendation that resulted from a two‑year investigation into suspected judicial corruption.
Historical context of grand‑jury power
Alaska’s constitution, drafted in 1955‑56, grants grand juries a unique authority that many states lack. Article I, Section 8 states the grand jury’s investigative power “SHALL NEVER BE SUSPENDED,” ensuring citizens can examine alleged government misconduct.
Throughout the state’s history, grand juries have used this power to expose wrongdoing. In 1954, a Ketchikan grand jury’s findings led to the indictment of a police chief, a police captain, and the U.S. Attorney. In 1985, a Juneau grand jury investigated a $10 million state office lease and recommended impeachment of Governor William Sheffield for steering the lease to a campaign contributor. Similar investigations have occurred in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Bethel, Barrow and Kenai, covering topics from jail conditions to police practices.
Why a large turnout matters
Organizers argue that a petition with a handful of signatures can be dismissed, but a crowd of hundreds standing outside the governor’s office on the first day of a new administration sends a powerful message. They are urging residents to bring family, friends, church groups, coworkers, hunting partners, and anyone who cares about fair courts.
Potential attendees are encouraged to carpool from towns such as Wasilla, Palmer, Eagle River, Homer or Soldotna, or to fly into Anchorage and make a day of it. Even a brief stop during a lunch break is welcomed.
Logistics and amenities
Food and beverages will be available, with some items provided at no cost. Organizers remind participants that December in Anchorage is cold, so dressing warmly with boots, hats and mittens is advisable. A thermos of a hot drink is also recommended.
Constitutional protection and inclusivity
The assembly is described as a peaceful, lawful, constitutionally protected gathering. All Alaskans are welcome regardless of political affiliation; the focus is on ensuring the courts answer to the people they serve.
For more information, to RSVP, or to read a timeline of past grand‑jury actions, interested individuals can contact David Haeg at (907) 398‑6403 or via email.
Original reporting: Must Read Alaska (Anchorage) — read the source article.
