"Tribal governments were supposed to get $8 billion in direct emergecy relief from the CARES Act, the $2 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill that became law on March 27. More than a month later, they haven't gotten any of it." #IndigenousStories

Following the March 27, 2020 decision by the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs, under the Trump Administration, to remove over 300 acres of Mashpee Wampanoag reservation lands from federal trust, Indigenous and non-Indigenous advocates helped launch a #StandWithMashpee campaign as the tribe also struggles to deal with battling the spread of the coronovirus. #IndigenousStories

“During these difficult times, the community of Akwesasne has pulled together. There is a strong spirit of unity and perseverance in the people of Akwesasne and there is no denying that. The actions of our local first responders have lifted up the minds and hearts of not only our local healthcare workers, but also the elders and community members who are cared for daily by Akwesasne's finest.” #IndigenousStories

"It is being NAMED and KNOWN and COUNTED as all the citizens of this Nation" is the message that goes out to the community from the Coushatta Tribal office in a drive to encourage participation in the U.S. Census, which determines government funding and services for the next decade. #IndigenousStories

“Indigenous Peoples are no strangers to disease and disaster. Through generations, Indigenous Peoples have established responses and coping mechanisms – grounded in traditional knowledge, customs and practices – to different circumstances affecting their communities. These are all founded on one fundamental principle: to ensure that the community survives. A common response across Indigenous communities is that of closing-off the community to all – this means no one can enter the community until deemed safe. Such community closures are done for different reasons. In the Cordillera, Philippines such practice is regularly observed during the agricultural cycle. Before or after the fields are ready for planting and harvesting, the community declares ubaya/tengaw which basically means everyone stays at home, no hard labor is to be done by anyone. This is a time for the community and the earth to rest and typically lasts a day or two.” #IndigenousStories

“The year 2020 has not begun favorably for the Indigenous Peoples on the Nicaraguan Caribbean coast. Amidst the impending coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, settler colonists (called colonos) violently attack Indigenous people and invade their rainforest lands. Ten Miskitu and Mayangna leaders and land defenders have been killed since early January.” #IndigenousStories

“Through online, webinars and social networking, Indigenous leaders are sharing traditional knowledge - and the latest biomedical and epidemiological information - to protect their communities from harm…Tribal communities all over the world are showing leadership in acting swiftly to protect their communities, even where some individual freedoms are curtailed.” #IndigenousStories

“Karen people in a number of highland communities begin to shut-down their villages one by one, not to allow entering nor getting out at all times. These village shut-downs were announced in conjunction with the revival of the ancient ritual called, “Kroh Yee” (or village closure). It was found that this ritual was used seventy years ago when there was an outbreak of cholera. Local knowledge holders believe that there would be enough food for annual consumption if a pandemic occurs and the village needs to be blockaded, but the town’s people may run away to the forest for their survival.” #IndigenousStories

Webinar discussion between Indigenous health professionals who are grounded in their cultures and share their views on how best to respond to the pandemic in Indigenous communities. #IndigenousStories *Participants from Canada, Australia and the United States.

“The Morongo Tribal Council remains fully focused on this issue and is working with federal, state, local and tribal organizations in a unified response to this national public health emergency. We are doing everything we can to address the needs of our tribal community and our region, and we remain in close contact with health and public safety officials.” #IndigenousStories

"Today, the Karuk Tribe will alter several employees work schedules minimizing exposure to high risk persons."

“If you have any activity that is booked but is not required by a grant funder, federal or state agency, and/or not necessary for an essential function of the Karuk Tribe, you are hereby directed to withdraw from any appointment, meeting, convention, and/or training scheduled…We understand that this may be inconvenient and short notice, however the data regarding the COVID19 virus is evolving quickly and the Karuk Tribe must ensure its most sensitive populations are protected.”

Coronavirus Covid-19 crisis services "will be provided up to 4 months, but may change depending on the length of this crisis."

“The County of San Diego has reported today, April 22, 2020, that there is one confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in the area covered by Pala’s zip code, 92059. By law, the County is not able to provide any identifying information about who this individual is, where they live, or their current health status (i.e. hospitalized, quarantined at home, etc.)…The dots on that map are not associated with any specific address; rather, they are placed in the geographic center of the area the zip code covers. Therefore, the dot on the map for Pala is not indicating where the confirmed positive individual lives…I encourage you not to spread rumors or misinformation about this case or make any attempt to discover who the confirmed positive individual may be. This is private information that none of us has, and spreading rumors only serves to stir up fear and panic.” #IndigenousStories

“In an effort to protect the health and safety of the community and our elders and to further prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Pala Band of Mission Indians and the Cupa Cultural Center announced the Postponement of the 2020 Annual Kupa Cemetery Warner’s Gathering.” #IndigenousStories

“After careful consideration, the Pit River Tribal Chairperson has made the decision to close our site office to the public due to the increasing concerns related to the COVID-19 virus. This includes cancelling all in person meetings and not allowing anyone besides employees inside any of our buildings..” #IndigenousStories

"Due to a confirmed case in our community...funerals may take place under the big house ramada up to an hour before cremation." #IndigenousStories

“Per the US Environmental Protection Agency's regulations for public water systems, our trained and certified operators carefully test each month the water produced by our two wells. The test results confirm that our water is safe to drink and to use for cooking, washing, and so on. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has not been detected in drinking water supplies, and based on current scientific evidence, the risk to water supplies is low.” #IndigenousStories

“This afternoon three Round Valley residents tested positive for COVID-19. This testing was performed at Round Valley Indian Health Center. Per protocol Mendocino County Public Health has been notified and will work together with our community to ensure steps are taken to keep our community as safe as possible.” #IndigenousStories

“As the coronavirus pandemic and response to it continues to affect just about every aspect of our world, we remain committed to the principle that the health and safety of our community is the most important priority.” #IndigenousStories

In a 15 point statement, the tribal council instructs its citizens on how to stay safe and healthy during the pandemic. #IndigenousStories

“I understand the frustration; we are all feeling it, but it is important that we stay focused and continue to follow the community restrictions to protect the health and safety of our community, especially our most vulnerable elders and those with health issues. It is only through our own combined efforts that we will succeed in protecting our community. Although no one knows when this pandemic will end, we know it will end; and we are already making plans about what safety practices we will continue to follow when we lift the Tribal workplace and community restrictions.” #IndigenousStories

"Live and act like you and everyone around you already has the virus." #IndigenousStories

“Narragansett Indian Tribal DEM Environmental Police and Narragansett Tribal Police Department will continue to monitor Tribal Parks, Camping, Beaches, and Tribal Lands for compliance. If people are blatantly ignoring the new rules and they choose to congregate at Tribal parks and beaches they may be cited if actions and behavior are not corrected.” #IndigenousStories

While seniors will continue to receive meals and some services will continue to be partially offered, Catawba tribal citizens are informed about how COVID-19 has impacted daily tribal operations. Seniors will be closely watched, with a phone tree to check on them “since they are hardest hit by this virus.” #IndigenousStories

Summer Training to Revive Indigenous Vision and Empowerment for Native American high school students set to run during August 2020. "Due to the COVID-19 situation, dates may change or STRIVE may move online." #IndigenousStories

Tribal elections held by mail ballot only. “This resolution affects only the current election as it is a temporary emergency amendment.” #IndigenousStories

“The unfortunate side effect of Culture Activity closures is just this, a hiccup in the passing down of knowledge from one Tribal Member to another. Fortunately you can, as always, practice your culture from home and even learn more about it.” #IndigenousStories

Podcast on the impact of the 1918 influenza on the State of Utah and the Navajo Nation with refereence to the current covid-19 pandemic. Interviews with historians Gregory Smoak and Brian Cannon, and journalist Sunnie R. Clahchischiligi.

Chemehuevi Indian Tribe Chairman, Charles F. Wood, addresses his community about the sacrifice of having to shut down tribal operations. “It may be lonely, boring and depressing to remain at home but it is safe and we thank you for your sacrifice.” He also looks ahead, “while it is hoped that the worst of the COVID-19 coronavirus has passed, I must emphasize the need to protect ourselves from the lingering possibility of a second outbreak.” #IndigenousStories

"The Tribal Council is taking the current Cornoavirus pandemic very seriously and we want to keep you informed. As you know, things are changing very fast and we receive new information daily." #IndigenousStories

“All Tribal communities face this plight and we do so with an unyielding will to persevere. Our survival is dependent on our discipline to comply with protocol and precautionary health advice. Our ability to help one another has remained strong and has brought Native American people to this day and age. We will continue helping one another through our compliance to the actions taken by tribal, state and federal leaders and also utilizing the sanitary health advice by the medical and scientific professionals of this world.” #IndigenousStories

Community report updates tribe on the number of confirmed cases, response team activities, elders services information, firewood distribution, tribal grocery store, mini mart, and essential services hours of operation. #IndigenousStories

The California Valley Miwok Tribe’s Chairwoman Silvia Burley issued a statement in response to the $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill passed by Congress: “Our Tribe, like many others throughout the United States, will not see a penny from the federal stimulus package despite our members’ dire need and right to these funds. An ongoing dispute with the Bureau of Indian Affairs over our Tribe’s right to self-govern has placed our Tribal members’ health and safety, including that of my mother – the last full blood Miwok Indian, at immediate risk.” #IndigenousStories

Tribal chairman addresses community, giving a brief history of the tribal response to date and offering the results of a recent survey among tribal members where 55% said that they had underlying health conditions that put them at greater risk. As a result, the Council has decided to close the tribal offices temporarily and close tribal enterprises to the public. #IndigenousStories

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi extend emergency services and resources to community and offer suggestions on how to spend time during social distancing. #IndigenousStories

"To help members with the difficulties of staying at home, the Tribes are providing delivery for necessary resources and services. These services will be available during the COVID-19 pandemic." #IndigenousStories

Tribal Council maintains regular communation with community through newsletters, website announcements, and a tribal radio station. This April newsletter details measures taken to date to protect the community from the COVID-19. #IndigenousStories

Tribal Council exercises its sovereign power to protect and promote the interests of its people through proactive measures adopted following reports about COVID-19 cases in California. Resolution was unanimously approved. #IndigenousStories

"""Stay healthy and safe during this challenging time,"" Tribal Chairman Jeff L. Grubbe said. ""We remain hopeful and are eager for the day we can reopen. Since time immemorial, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has been resilient in overcoming major challenges and obstacles. We will get through this together, Coachella Valley."" #IndigenousStories"

“Native Americans are being left out of demographic data on the impact of the coronavirus across the US, raising fears of hidden health emergencies in one of the country’s most vulnerable populations. A Guardian analysis found that about 80% of state health departments have released some racial demographic data, which has already revealed stark disparities in the impact of Covid-19 in black and Latinx communities. But of those states, almost half did not explicitly include Native Americans in their breakdowns and instead categorized them under the label ‘other’” #IndigenousStories

Order is part of a coordinated response between the tribe and Humboldt County to stop the spread of the virus in the vicinity. #IndigenousStories

"The Pow Wow is an opportunity for our Tribe as well as other Native Americans to come together as a community and celebrate our heritage. Out of concern for the health and well-being of our members and all who plan to attend, we will reschedule when we feel that it is safe to do so." #IndigenousStories

Villages monitor National Weather Service predictions, developing a response plan to anticipated flooding in 2020. Press release cites: "This year in particular it is really important that our villages make their own plans and preparations because of the spread of COVID-19- the pandemic is taking the focus of many agencies and resources." #IndigenousStories

Native fisherman share their catches with elders in need in a drive thru or delivery giveaway. #IndigenousStories

States essential categories of businesses that can continue operating. "Until further notice anyone who doesn't work in the specific areas deemed essential categories will NOT be allowed in tribal buildings...Wash hands every 20 minutes, unless farming/fieldwork." #IndigenousStories

Multiple cases of people infected with the coronovirus in Iowa, and positive tests in the Meskwaki Settlment, caused the tribal council to declare a state of emergency, closing buildings and roads to prevent the spread. #IndigenousStories

"We understand the importance of the time we are in as a nation, we are all in this together, and we will get through this. Now more than ever is our time to come together and do the best we can for our people." #IndigenousStories

Resolution passed to suspend evictions under housing programs managed by tribal housing to "avoid the risk of residents losing their homes in this difficult time." #IndigenousStories

Thousands of donors contribute to relief fund set up with the goal of raising $1 million to assist the Navajo and Hopi Nations during the pandemic. #IndigenousStories