On March, 18 the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Chairman Cedric Cromwell declared a State of Emergency for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Nation in response to the Covid-19 Pandemic that is spreading across the Country. A request was also formally sent to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for federal assistance as a direct recipient under the National Emergency Management Declaration.
“I’m thankful that we had a solid emergency management plan in place and have been able to respond swiftly to the needs of tribal families and the guidelines being set at both the state and federal level,” said Chairman Cromwell. “It’s so important that we all do our part to stem the spread of this virus, especially to our elders and those with health issues, while maintaining access to essential services. That’s our number one goal right now…we’re being extremely proactive.”
On March, 20th a FEMA Tribal Liaison Officer/Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) was deployed to assist the tribe at the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Community and Government Center in coordination with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Emergency Management Department.
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe was the first tribe in the U.S to receive direct federal assistance through FEMA, two additional tribes have followed suit since. The tribe is also the first tribe in the Northeast Region 1 of FEMA as a direct grant recipient under a federal declaration. Many additional tribes across Indian Country are in the process of declaring separate states of emergencies as well. As a direct recipient under FEMA, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is able to exercise full sovereignty as opposed to becoming a sub-recipient under the state. The tribe will also be eligible for reimbursement measures as a result of the COVID-19 response.
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Emergency Management Department with assistance from FEMA, are currently in coordination and collaboration efforts with MWT departments and the Mashpee Wampanoag IHS to provide support and assistance while exploring different avenues through federal and non-federal support.
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Emergency Management Director, Nelson Andrews remains focused on the immediate needs of the community. "During this pressing time and pandemic that we are facing as a tribal nation, we must be sure to adhere to all of the public health guidelines, to help slow the spread. We will get through this and remain as a strong, resilient nation. The Emergency Management department is working day and night with our FEMA counterparts and other agencies to ensure that we are able to meet the response and recovery needs of our tribal community"
