CHIEF BARNES RESPONDS TO OMB'S MEMO ON FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

Jan 28, 2025

CHIEF BARNES RESPONDS TO OMB’S MEMO ON FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

On Monday, the acting director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memorandum for heads of executive departments and federal agencies requiring agencies to “complete a comprehensive analysis of all of their [f]ederal financial assistance programs to identify programs, projects, and activities that may be implicated by any of the President’s executive orders. In the interim, to the extent permissible under applicable law, [f]ederal agencies must temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all [f]ederal financial assistance, and other relevant agency activities that may be implicated by the executive orders.”

Although a federal judge has temporarily halted the funding freeze until at least February 3, uncertainties still remain.

In response, Chief Benjamin Barnes assures Shawnee citizens that the tribal administration is working intently on gaining clarity as quickly as possible during this period:

“The Shawnee Tribe is aware of the temporary holds implemented by the Office of Management and Budget, and we are closely monitoring the transition progress to ensure the Tribe’s priorities are well-represented. Our team is actively working with federal partners and stakeholders to better understand how these holds may impact funding streams and programs. The federal government’s trust responsibility to tribal nations is a statutory obligation, and we will continue to advocate for the recognition of this unique relationship throughout the administration’s review process. The Shawnee Tribe remains focused on maintaining stability and continuity in our programs and services and will continue to prioritize the best interests of our citizens while navigating this transition with care and diligence.“

###

Back

Feb 5, 2026

RECYCLING SPOTLIGHT: HOW TO RECYCLE CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Did you know that the average US Citizen throws away an average of 70 lbs. of clothing annually? The fashion industry is a major contributor to global pollution, generating about 10% of annual CO₂ emissions. Reusing, donating, or recycling clothing helps reduce its environmental impact. Clean Out Your Closet—Responsibly Finished cleaning out your closet and […]

Feb 5, 2026

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: JENEAN PERRYMAN

Hello! My name is Jenean Perryman, and I’m so grateful to join the Shawnee Tribe as the Education Outreach and Special Projects Director. I’m honored to be part of this community and appreciate the opportunity to work alongside tribal youth, families, and our education partners. I am a citizen of the Choctaw Nation – Halito […]

Feb 5, 2026

FEBRUARY IS DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

The Shawnee Tribe’s Behavioral Health Program is providing information in February for Dating Violence Awareness Month. This is a time dedicated to raising awareness about a serious issue that impacts people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Dating violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to gain power and control over a partner in […]

More News

Feb 5, 2026

RECYCLING SPOTLIGHT: HOW TO RECYCLE CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Feb 5, 2026

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: JENEAN PERRYMAN

Feb 5, 2026

FEBRUARY IS DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

Feb 5, 2026

THE OKLAHOMAN GUEST COLUMNIST CHIEF BARNES: OKLAHOMA TRIBES ARE STRONGER TOGETHER

On December 24, 2025, The Oklahoman published Chief Ben Barnes’ op-ed on important priorities for the state in 2026. As Oklahoma prepares for an election year and the 250th anniversary of the United States, this is a fitting moment to reflect on who we are as a state and what kind of future we want […]

Jan 7, 2026

HOUSING DEPARTMENT MOVES LOCATIONS

The Housing Department is moving! Housing is now located at 1525 A St NE, Miami OK 74354. Directly behind (East) of the Sonic Restaurant. * As with the previous location (at the Headquarters building) please press the button to be let inside. DOWNLOAD directions to the new location from the headquarters building.

Dec 22, 2025

JANUARY IS STALKING AWARENESS MONTH

The Shawnee Tribe’s Behavioral Health Program is providing information in January for Stalking Awareness Month. Stalking is a serious and often misunderstood form of victimization. It involves a pattern of behaviors that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or experience significant emotional distress. Stalking is not rare, and it is not […]

Dec 22, 2025

RECYCLING SPOTLIGHT: WHAT TIRE RECYCLING IS

Tire recycling (or rubber recycling) is the process of collecting worn-out tires and reprocessing them into useful materials instead of letting them take up space in landfills. Because tires are durable and don’t break down easily, recycling them protects the environment, reduces fire risks, and eliminates potential mosquito-breeding sites in improperly disposed tire piles. Common […]

Dec 4, 2025

HEALING & TRAUMA: NAVIGATING TRIGGERS AROUND THE HOLIDAYS

For many people, the holiday season brings connection, celebration, and routine changes. But for survivors of domestic violence or past trauma, this time of year can also bring unexpected emotional challenges. Increased stress, family expectations, and sensory triggers can intensify anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. Holiday environments can activate the brain’s trauma pathways. Sensory […]

See All News