Native American Tribes Navigate Hurdles Amid COVID Vaccine Rollout

The Cherokee and Navajo Nations are prioritizing the vaccination of native language speakers to preserve cultural heritage. Tribal leaders, like Cherokee Nation's Chuck Hoskin Jr., emphasize the importance of building trust in vaccines. Efforts include educational initiatives and addressing vaccine distribution challenges. The Navajo Nation, led by President Jonathan Nez, has successfully administered over 50% of its vaccine doses, showcasing a faster rollout than many states. Nez advocates for reallocating unused vaccines from other states to the Navajo Nation to ensure community safety.

Why is vaccinating native language speakers a priority for the Cherokee and Navajo Nations?

• To improve their health statistics

• To preserve crucial cultural ties

• To increase tourism

• To reduce healthcare costs

What role does the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation believe native speakers play in vaccine confidence?

• They are more educated about vaccines

• They are less likely to get vaccinated

• They hold a special place in people's hearts and minds

• They have more access to vaccines

What strategies are being used to educate the Navajo people about vaccines?

• Television commercials

• Livestreaming vaccinations and town halls

• Social media campaigns

• Door-to-door visits

How has the Navajo Nation's vaccine rollout compared to many states?

• It has been about the same

• It has been slower

• It has not started yet

• It has been faster

What is the Navajo Nation's stance on unused vaccines from other states?

• They prefer to wait for their own supply

• They are willing to accept them

• They do not need additional vaccines

• They want to return them