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Splatsin among bands declaring state of emergency

Mar 23, 2020 | 2:53 PM

The Secwepemc (Shuswap) First Nation — including the Splatsin — have declared a state of emergency over COVID-19.

Band leaders are calling on all governments, health authorities and external organizations to “ensure the Secwepemc Nation receives equal access to health, social and necessary infrastructure” to care for their members during the pandemic.

“As Secwepemc, we will work collectively to protect the health and safety of our nation,” the address said. “Through our joint efforts, we will support one another to ensure we have access to food, medical supplies and necessary equipment.

“Our nation leaders will have weekly teleconference calls to collectively coordinate our efforts.”

Everyone, including youth, are urged to do their part.

These include:

  • HANDS Wash them often
  • ELBOW Cough into it
  • FACE Don’t touch it
  • FEET Stay more than three-feet apart
  • FEEL sick? Stay home

Chief Wayne Christian is also asking nation members to support one another during the crisis.

“It is important that we all take steps to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in our communities. Secwepemc Nation members stand to have considerable impacts on our most vulnerable elders, immunocompromised and members with pre-existing and chronic health conditions. It is the duty of each of us to care for one another.

It is not a time to panic, rather it is a time to act rationally for the strongest defence,” he said.

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