(Wind River Reservation, WY) – The Northern Arapaho Business Council regrets to announce the passing of two Tribal Members due to COVID-19.
The deceased include an adult man and woman. Names are not being released at this time out of respect for the families’ privacy.
Chairman Jordan Dresser and Co-Chairman Lee Spoonhunter offer their sincere condolences on behalf of the NABC and entire Northern Arapaho community.
“The passing of any Tribal member is a loss felt by all of us, and I join the Arapaho people in sending prayers and condolences for the loved ones during their time of unimaginable grief,” said Chairman Dresser. “May our Creator bring them comfort and peace, and may we all continue to do our part to slow the spread of this terrible virus.”
In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 on the reservation, the Wind River Inter-Tribal Council approved additional public health measures last week. Those safeguards – which only apply within the boundaries of the reservation – include an indoor masking requirement in public places, 25% building capacity limit and requirement that all individuals who work with minors be vaccinated.
“This is a sad day for the Northern Arapaho people, and a sobering reminder of the continued threat posed by COVID-19,” said Co-Chairman Spoonhunter. “We are not out of the woods yet when it comes to this pandemic – and for the sake of all of our fellow Members, we must not let up on our efforts to combat this virus. Please: be safe, be smart and be vigilant. Together, let’s all do our part to stop the spread and save lives.”