ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE (March 12, 2020) –  Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Glen Hare states that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the global coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak a pandemic because of the speed and scale of transmission.

“We understand that this is a stressful time for all; however, the safety of all citizens continues to be absolutely paramount as this pandemic unfolds. It is important to take necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of ourselves, families, and the most vulnerable. Please contact your First Nation Health Centres if you need help with keeping our First Nations healthy.”

Grand Council Chief reminds Anishinabek First Nations citizens to stay safe, follow the directions given by Health Organizations/Health Care providers to keep our citizens, from the Binoojiish (babies) to the Getzijig (Elders), safe and assist them if they think they may be affected.

Relevant links:

• Government of Ontario: The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19): https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus
• Government of Ontario: Wgimaawaad owi Mina Bimaadiziwin: https://files.ontario.ca/moh-coronavirus-info-sheet-eastern-ojibway-2020-03-11.pdf
• Public Health Ontario: Novel Coronavirus: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory-diseases/novel-coronavirus
• Public Health Agency of Canada: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
• Government of Canada: Travel advice and advisories: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coronavirus disease 2019: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html
• World Health Organization: Responding to community spread of COVID-19: https://www.who.int/publications-detail/responding-to-community-spread-of-covid-19
• World Health Organization: Coronavirus disease (COVID- 19) technical guidance: Infection prevention and control/WASH: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/technical-guidance/infection-prevention-and-control

The Anishinabek Nation is a political advocate for 39 member First Nations across Ontario, representing approximately 65,000 citizens.  The Anishinabek Nation is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact. 

– 30 –

Laura Barrios, Communications Officer

Anishinabek Nation

Phone: 705-497-9127 ext. 2290

E-mail: laura.barrios@anishinabek.ca