Providence City Council backs state recognition for Seconk Wampanoag tribe

The Providence City Council has taken a significant step towards recognizing the Seconk Wampanoag tribe, a group that has long sought acknowledgment from both state and federal governments. During the meeting on June 5, 2025, council members expressed strong support for a resolution urging the Rhode Island General Assembly to grant state recognition to the tribe. This recognition is crucial as it would enable tribe members to access federal education, job training, and housing benefits, which they currently cannot due to their lack of official status.

Councilwoman Peterson highlighted the historical importance of the Wampanoag people, recalling their contributions to the local community and their role in early American history. She emphasized the need for the community to honor and support the tribe's heritage and traditions, which have been integral to the region's identity.

The resolution, if passed, would align Rhode Island's actions with those of Massachusetts, which recognized the Seconk Wampanoag in 1997. This state acknowledgment would not only help preserve the tribe's cultural practices but also protect their burial sites and artifacts, and support the sale of authentic handicrafts made by tribe members.

The council's unanimous support reflects a growing recognition of the importance of indigenous communities in Rhode Island. As the resolution moves forward, it aims to strengthen the ties between the Seconk Wampanoag and the broader community, ensuring that their history and contributions are acknowledged and celebrated. The council plans to send copies of the resolution to key legislative leaders, urging swift action on this important matter.