Native America

Native storyteller and musician with the band Native Roots Emmett "Shkeme" Garcia (Santa Ana Pueblo) shares his take on COVID-19 and the challenges it has brought to Native communities as well as, how music and culture are carrying him through these trying times.

Hopi Tribe Vice Chairman Clark Tenakhongva gives an update on COVID-19’s impact on his nation and the importance of turning to Native culture and song during these times. 

Preston Sanchez (Diné and Jemez and Laguna Pueblos) ACLU Indigenous Justice attorney shares information on COVID-19’s impact on the education system including the digital divide as well as, tribal considerations on early release efforts for incarcerated populations.

Former Executive Director of Tewa Women United and San Ildefonso Pueblo Elder Kathy (Wan Povi) Sanchez shares ways to face COVID-19 with culture and resilience. 

Zuni Elder Clyde Yatsattie who is also the Pueblo of Zuni Tribal Council Secretary shares how COVID-19 is affecting his beloved community as well as, what it means to be an elder in these times.

Jicarilla Apache Nation student Kaylee Wood talks about the transitions she’s had to make as a student because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Miss Eastern Navajo 2019-2020 Danielle Dawes discusses working with elders in Gallup, New Mexico during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also shares what this emergency health issue has brought to her current title reign.

Dr. Bret Smoker from Indian Health Service talks about the impact of COVID-19 on the state's indigenous population and why so many are at such high risk for infection.

Secretary Trujillo discusses the State of New Mexico's "Tribal Response Plan COVID-19" that was prepared by the NM Indian Affairs Department as well as, the 4/19/20 New Mexico's Tribal Communities and COVID-19: A Virtual Town Hall

Governor Talachy discusses using the Buffalo Thunder resort as a quarantine facility for New Mexico tribal members awaiting test results for COVID-19

New Mexico Representative Derrick J. Lente (Isleta & Sandia Pueblos) House District 65

Christy Chapman (Zuni Pueblo) is an attorney who works with the Native American Budget and Policy Institute. She also serves as a Guardian Ad Litem with Pegasus Legal Services for Children. She has also worked as a nurse in her pueblo.