"The people of Alaska own the land," Hickel tells Alaska's youth, in a new film, "You Own Alaska!" "We are an owner state. We own it collectively."

Hickel said the film's goal is to encourage young Alaska residents to get more involved in policy issues, especially involving commonly owned natural resources, which provide the majority of the state revenues and Alaska Permanent Fund.

"We have got to listen to the young," he said.

The film, which was introduced at a news conference March 25, includes images, ideas and interviews with Alaskans who have figured prominently in the state's history. It includes the fight for statehood, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, and future rights and responsibilities of all Alaskans. Its aim is to provide a dialogue around issues of ownership and citizens' obligations to participate actively in public policy decisions and issues.

Among those appearing in the film are Hickel, senior fellow Malcolm Roberts of the Institute of the North, Alaska Constitutional Convention Delegate Vic Fischer, author Harold Napoleon, former North Pacific Fishery Management Council chairman Clem Tillion, and community activists Kokayi Nokashere, Rebecca Prieto, Jon Waterhouse of the Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council and Scott Heyworth, chairman of the Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority.

The film also features Q'orianka Kilcher, great granddaughter of Alaska Constitutional delegate Yule Kilcher, and other young Alaskans.

Each one talks about their connection to the state's history and encourages all Alaskans to take responsibility for further development of the state.

"The solution (of the state's future) will have to come within our own selves," said Napoleon. "In the end we are all responsible."

"We are the only land grant state," said Tillion. "We are building the foundation on which everything else will stand."

"It's not all about me," Heyworth said. "It's not all about you. It's about all of us together."

Roberts points to the importance of Article VIII in the Alaska Constitution. "It gives authority as owners in development of resources,"

Article VIII clearly states that "the Legislature shall provide for the utilization, development, and conservation of all natural resources belonging to the state, including land and waters, for the maximum benefit of its people."

"The people of Alaska own the land," Hickel said. "We own it collectively. We have to make the decisions."

Since its creation 1994, the Institute of the North has gained a reputation as a center for the study of commonly owned lands, seas and resources using the "owner state" of Alaska as a model. The institute's mission combines both economic relevance and geopolitical urgency as most trouble spots around the world are found in regions where the commons has been mismanaged or exploited, institute officials said.

The film, which cost about $100,000, was financed primarily through a private donation from John Hendrickson, vice president of the board, with additional funds donated by Hickel.

Copies of the film are available for $24.99 for the general public, and for $19.99 for educational uses.

The Anchorage School District will include the film in its Alaska studies program, and the Institute of the North hopes to also put the film in similar programs throughout the state, said Nils Andreassen, research associate for Alaska programs at the institute.

The institute also is sponsoring the 2009 emerging leaders dialogue, a gathering of young Alaska leaders, ages 25 to 40, set for May 14-16 at the Chena Hot Springs Resort in Fairbanks.

Margaret Bauman can be reached at margie.bauman@alaska

journal.com.