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COVID-19 vaccines from two pharmaceutical companies are making their way to Native populations and tribes are among those creating vaccine distribution plans. Hundreds of Native health workers, elders and others were among the first to receive the vaccine. It’s among the more promising developments in at least a year in the fight against the pandemic that has disproportionately affected Native Americans. But many individuals remain wary of the vaccine, citing possible unforeseen side effects, and a general distrust of the federal government and the Indian Health Service. We’ll get an update from health leaders and tribal leaders about vaccine distribution.
Guests:
Dr. Kailee Fretland (direct descendent of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe) – Indian Health Service COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force deputy lead
Kiana Beaudin (enrolled Ho-Chunk and Ojibwe) – executive director of health for the Ho-Chunk Nation
Jonathan Nez (Navajo) – Navajo Nation President
Stacey Bohlen (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians) – chief executive officer of the National Indian Health Board
Break 1 music: Keep it Hoppin’ (song) Bryden Gwiss Kiwenzie (artist) Round Dance & Beats (Powwow)
Break 2 music: Drum Time (song) Cree Confederation (artist) Horse Dance – Mistamim Simoowin (album)
