For too long, the federal government has treated Indigenous communities as an afterthought. The lack of investments into basic infrastructure and resources like health care, food, education and running water but also voter suppression, racial profiling in border towns, racism, and environmental degradation have had deep, systemic impacts for life on reservations. Sadly, we are seeing the consequences of this during one of the worst public health crises in modern history.

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, Native Americans account for 6 percent of all cases — close to their percentage in the state population — but 16 percent of all COVID-19 deaths.

This town hall will include discussions about re-envisioning a new normal where our government in consultation with tribal community leaders can advance progressive policies to ensure a better life for all Indigenous People in Arizona and across the nation.

Our special guests are:

Ethel Branch, former Navajo Nation Attorney General and organizer of the Navajo & Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief Fund, Diné

Gabriella Cázares-Kelly, candidate for Pima County Recorder, educator, and grassroots organizer, Tohono O’odham

Nikki Cooley, resident of Flagstaff, Indigenous scientist, and climate educator, Diné

Eric Descheenie, former state representative (AZ-07) and National Tribal Advisor for the Bernie 2020 Presidential Campaign, Diné