Dark Horse Coffee Co. serves free food at AFN convention to boost voter turnout

Dark Horse Coffee Co. is providing complimentary coffee, soup, sandwiches, and snacks to attendees of the Alaska Federation of Natives convention and the First Alaskans Institute’s Elders & Youth conference. The shop, located across the street from the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center, serves as the primary beverage and food supplier for both events.

The free service runs through the final day of the AFN convention, ending when the shop closes at 3 p.m. on Saturday. While the specific identity of the sponsor remains undisclosed, the arrangement was driven by a desire to increase voter participation during the local election cycle.

Karin Johnson, the owner of Dark Horse, stated that a political action committee approached her to fund the initiative. Johnson explained that the group preferred to support the community directly rather than purchase a commercial. She described the partnership as a low-risk opportunity for the business.

“From what I gather, they just didn’t want to spend money on a commercial,” Johnson said. “Instead, they said, 'Hey, there’s this deal we can do with you.' I couldn’t see a downside.”

Staff members have used the high traffic to remind customers about voting logistics. Jessica Johnson, the owner’s daughter and a regular barista, noted that the shop serves over 300 people daily during the conference.

Jessica Johnson emphasized that the message to customers has been consistent. “We’ve been doing a lot of telling people: 'Go vote! Go to City Hall! You can vote right here! You don’t need to worry about finding a ride to Midtown or wherever!'” she said. She added that the shop is helping to spread the word from their location.

The increased foot traffic has filled the dining room throughout the day. Johnson recalled that at one point, the line of customers wound through the interior of the shop. The arrangement allows regulars and new visitors to enjoy meals without cost while the conferences are in session.