CONCHO – The governor of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes announced Thursday that all powwows and social gatherings on tribal lands will be postponed until further notice.
The change comes amid a new wave of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma and throughout the country.
Gov. Reggie Wassana met with officials from the Indian Health Service, the Tribal COVID Task Force, legislators, powwow committee representatives, chiefs and elders “to discuss and make decisions regarding the new COVID variant and the safety of our tribal members,” his office said.
It was “unanimously” decided to postpone all powwow and social gatherings on tribal lands “until further notice,” he said, “and a time where the events can take place without health risks.”
The rule was effective as of Monday, Aug. 16. The rule includes a prohibition of funeral services on tribal lands.
The tribes will reassess the ban on or around Sept. 22. In the meantime, tribal offices remain closed to the public; “however,” Wassana’s office said,
“essential services will continue to be provided by appointment only.”
The Delta variant of COVID-19 is causing a new spike in cases throughout Indian Country, Oklahoma and the nation at large. The surge is fueling concern and debate about renewed mask policies and tightened restrictions after months of loosening regulations as the pandemic appeared to be waning.
Health officials encourage Oklahomans to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and resume mask-wearing indoors.