Press Release

Release Date: January 13, 2004
Release Number: 04-009

FEMA On-Line Course to Help Build Effective Partnerships with Tribal Governments

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released today an on-line, independent study course to help those who interact with tribal governments learn how to work in concert with them to protect native people and their property against all types of hazards. The course is open to anyone who has an interest in learning more about building partnerships with tribal communities.

"Throughout this on-line course, tribal representatives speak about their history, their culture, their way of life, and what those who work with them need to know to develop good relationships with them," said Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response. "Tribal representatives also provide insight into tribal communities that have endured great suffering and faced many challenges while remaining committed to caring for one another, their land and their traditions."

Specialists at FEMA's Emergency Management Institute developed the course, which is part of the institute's extensive independent study program. The course, Building Partnerships with Tribal Governments, IS 650, has seven lessons with topics on historical and legal perspectives, tribal culture, and challenges in delivering government programs and can be completed between four to six hours. Those who successfully pass the final exercise receive a certificate of completion. The course is located at: http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is650.asp.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, administers the National Flood Insurance Program and operates the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Updated: June 23, 2004 01:40 PM

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