The Navajo Nation has announced its plan for a phased-in reopening beginning Aug. 17. The plan includes safety measures for residents as well as new business policies.
Navajo President Jonathan Nez says it will not be a rushed reopening, and the plan prioritizes elders and high-risk individuals.
“Everybody’s saying ‘keep everything closed.’ You can’t keep everything closed and get our elders the direct services that they need," said Nez. "I know a lot of people are saying ‘I can’t get things done because offices are closed.’ You can’t have it both ways.”
Depending on data trends, the tribe may move from a less-restrictive to a more-restrictive status and vice versa.
The Navajo Nation struggled after the pandemic broke out. It had its first COVID-19 case on March 17.
At times, it had one of the highest per capita infection rates in the country. Now, it has had 48 consecutive days with fewer than 100 reported daily coronavirus cases.
