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Denise Bates
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2020-03-12
Karuk Tribe Restricts Non-Essential Travel for Tribal Employees to Protect Sensitive Population
“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.” -
2020-04-01
Karuk Tribe Provides Tribal Members Emergency Services for Up to Four Months
Coronavirus Covid-19 crisis services "will be provided up to 4 months, but may change depending on the length of this crisis." -
2020-03-22
Chairman of the Pala Band of Mission Indians Encourages Community Not to Spread Rumors and Misinformation
“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 -
2020-04-01
Pala Band and Cupa Center Announces the Postponement of the 2020 Annual Kupa Cemetery Warner’s Gathering
“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 -
2020-03-13
Pit River Tribe Decides to Close Offices
“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 -
2020-04-16
Quechan Tribe Cancels Full Traditional Funeral Rites Until Further Notice
"Due to a confirmed case in our community...funerals may take place under the big house ramada up to an hour before cremation." #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-27
Quechan Tribe Reassures that Drinking Water Isn't Contaminated with Virus
“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 -
2020-04-27
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Extends Casino Closure to May 31st
“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 -
2020-04-16
Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians Issues Detailed Instructions for Tribal Citizens
In a 15 point statement, the tribal council instructs its citizens on how to stay safe and healthy during the pandemic. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-22
Chief of Penobscot Nation Offers Condolences for the Loss of Three Tribal Citizens
“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 -
2020-04-30
Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head: "Social Distancing Is Not a Suggestion"
"Live and act like you and everyone around you already has the virus." #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-01
Narragansett Tribe Closes Tribal Parks and Beaches
“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 -
2020-03-26
Catawba Nation Adjusts Services in Response to Pandemic
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 -
2020-04-30
Central Oregon Community College May Transition Indigenous Summer Program to Online Platform
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 -
2020-04-01
Tribal Election Process Changes Due to Declaration of Emergency
Tribal elections held by mail ballot only. “This resolution affects only the current election as it is a temporary emergency amendment.” #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-01
Practicing Culture From Home
“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 -
2020-04-01
Havasu Lake Tribe Relies on Science For Clues in Operating in a Safe and Sustainable Way
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 -
2020-03-17
Getting Ahead of the Virus: Northern California Tribe Takes Precautions
"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 -
2020-04-01
"Our Survival is Dependent on our Discipline to Comply": Colorado River Tribe Mandates "Stay-At_Home" Order
“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 -
2020-04-21
Keeping Tribal Members Informed: Hoopa Valley Tribe's Community Updates, April 21st
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 -
2020-04-03
California Valley Miwok Tribe Chairwoman Issues Statement In Response to Passage of Federal Stimulus Package
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 -
2020-03-21
La Jolla Band of Luiseno Tribal Chairman Addresses Tribe
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 -
2020-03-31
"This Might Be An Opportunity to Master Our Potawatomi Language"
Pokagon Band of Potawatomi extend emergency services and resources to community and offer suggestions on how to spend time during social distancing. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-20
Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Organizes Home Deliveries of Food for Elders
"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 -
2020-04-01
Bishop Paiute Tribal Council Continues to Work Hard Serving Community Through Teleconferencing
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 -
03/16/2020
Big Pine Paiute Tribe Passes Resolution Proclaiming An Emergency Declaration of A Public Health Threat
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 -
2020-03-27
California's Agua Caliente Tribe Closes Casino, One of the Largest Employers in Coachella Valley
"""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" -
2020-04-24
Native Americans Being Left Out of US Coronavirus Data and Labelled as 'Other'
“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 -
2020-04-24
California Tribe Issues Mandatory Face Mask Order, Fine Enforced
Order is part of a coordinated response between the tribe and Humboldt County to stop the spread of the virus in the vicinity. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-01
25th Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow Postponed Until Further Notice
"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 -
2020-04-20
Alaskan Native Villages Prepare for Predicted Flooding Without Additional Assistance
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 -
2020-04-13
Herring Eggs For Elders Giveaway: Ketchikan Indian Community of Alaska Takes Care of Its People in Time of Need
Native fisherman share their catches with elders in need in a drive thru or delivery giveaway. #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-23
Iowa Tribe Appeals to Businesses to Help Keep the Community Safe
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 -
2020-04-01
Meskwaki Nation Closes Roads and Non-Essential Buildings
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 -
2020-04-03
Northern California Tribe Provides Stimulus Funds to Tribal Citizens to Assist During Pandemic
"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 -
2020-04-06
Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Council Ensures that No Tribal Citizen Loses Home During Pandemic
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 -
2020-03-15
Navajo and Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief Fund Established
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 -
2020-03-24
Louisiana Tribe Joins Forces with Pharmaceutical Company to Increase Covid-19 Tests
“As the First People of this land we carry the genetic memory of the devastation pandemics cause, but in this present moment of crisis we are one tribe,” said David Sickey, Tribal Chairman of the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. “COVID-19 does not discriminate. The virus doesn’t care what ethnicity we are or what our political ideology is. We are facing an invisible enemy that we must unite to defeat. The CoV-2 Rapid Test brings visibility to this faceless foe so that our heroes on the frontlines, the doctors, nurses and first responders, know where to take the fight and how to treat our fellow citizens who have contracted the virus. Fear is stoked by the unknown. With these tests we can reduce the fear factor for people across the United States.” #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-12
Maya Village Leaders in Belize Enforce Curfew and Limit Visitors
Amid uncertainty about the impact COVID-19 would have on the Maya villages of the Toledo District of Belize, several villages enacted their own curfews. These signs were posted as one enters the Queche Maya Village of Laguna. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-07
First Confirmed Covid-19 Death of Zuni Tribal Member
"Our hearts go out to the family and everyone who is impacted by the tragic loss of a tribal member." --Zuni Governor Panteah #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-27
Threat to Tribal Sovereignty: Bureau of Indian Affairs Moves to Disestablish Mashpee Wampanoag Reservation Amid Pandemic
In an emotional message, Chairman Cromwell addresses his dismay that amid the record confirmed cases of the coronavirus that he was informed that his tribe's reservation was being disestablished and the land taken out of trust. "Not since the termination era of the mid-twentieth century has a Secretary taken action to disestablish a reservation." #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-06
United Nations Statement on COVID-19 Guidance for Indigenous Peoples
Recommends that "states should take into account Indigenous peoples’ distinctive concepts of health, including their traditional medicine, consult and consider the free prior and informed consent of indigenous peoples in the development of preventive measures on COVID-19." Recommendations also include measures for voluntary isolation from outsiders. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-14
American Indian Organizations Call for Congress to Extend Census Operations Due to the Impact of Covid-19
The impact of the U.S. Census Bureau's suspension of field operations in Indian Country due to the pandemic will have profound implications for future funding. As a result, tribal leaders issue a joint statement to Congress asking for the extension of census data collection. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-06
The National Congress of American Indians' Response to CARES Act
With the passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, attention is drawn to the advocates across Indian Country who "worked tirelessly to ensure that the bill included these and other resources to enable tribal nations and commmunities to respond to and recover from the effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic." #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-18
Call for More Attention to Covid-19 Impact on American Indian Communities
"In the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic, tribal nations – comprised of some of the most vulnerable communities in the United States – have been left out of the conversation. As the COVID-19 pandemic has now reached all 50 states, tribal governments also face heightened challenges to protect their citizens, and have inadequate federal funding and resources to do so." #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-15
Native Alaskans Call for Response to 2020 Census to Ensure They Are Counted Amid Covid-19 Crisis
"While Census field operations are on hold until at least April 1 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's even more important for Alaskans to respond to the Census from home...For the first time, you can choose to complete the census online, by phone, or by mail." #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-31
Florida Seminole Learning Center Goes Online
"For those sheltering at home and practicing social distancing, there is only so much internet browsing and television watching one can do before cabin fever really sets in. Luckily, the Native Learning Center is ready to step in to expand minds through podcasts and webinare on multiple subjects." #IndigenousStories -
2020-03-31
Tribal Leaders Worried about Being Left Out of Conversation in Washington, D.C. on COVID-funding
"Even before the COVID-19 public health crisis began to grip the globe, Indian Country faced significant challenges from underfunding in health care, education, broadband and internet access, economic development, housing, human services and more." As a result, tribal leaders held a March 20 teleconference to discuss their next move. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-10
Navajo Nation Hit Hard: Approaching Top 3 Hot Spots in Nation and Running Out of Water
597 people in Navajo Nation have tested positive for Coronovirus while people also are running out of water. National Guard rushing potable water to rural Navajo families while also setting up emergency health facilities. #IndigenousStories -
2020-04-08
Governor Stephen Roe Lewis Addresses the Gila River Indian Community Giving Update on New Cases in Community
Tribal leadership launches social media campaign in collaboration with Gila River Health Care staff to inform community on status of Covid-19. Addresses the status of the positive cases and reassures community that there are also an "overwhelming number of negative" cases of people who were tested, which means "we are getting a handle on what is actually going on and that is key to our success in beating this." For questions, the community is encouraged to call a reservation Coronavirus Hotline. #IndigenousStories