Is Alaska and are Alaska Natives better off as part of the United States?  If the answer to that question is yes, then a statue honoring the man who made it possible seems fitting. And while Natives undoubtedly suffered from racial discrimination over the years, and in some instances still do, they have also benefitted from laws that recognize their rights (ANCSA) and programs enacted to meet their needs -- Native hospitals and investments in village schools, water and sewer systems.   Bennie Benson, a Native, designed the state flag. It should also be noted that the Alaska purchase was a small part of Seward's career which is distinguished by his lifelong efforts to eradicate the oppression of blacks (slavery) and his major role in preserving the nation during the Civil War.  On balance, I think he deserves a statute. But if denied, the next time I visit Alaska I can travel to Seward on July 4.