If Native American tribes were counted as states, the five most infected states in the US would all be native tribes, with NY dropping to No. 6. Here's my new column from the front line in Navajo Nation, with photos by @AZehbrauskas nyti.ms/3eA4mZw
@AZehbrauskas It's worth noting that the Navajo are vulnerable to the coronavirus because of decades of discrimination, exploitation and neglect. Even before Covid-19, life expectancy in Navajo lands was shorter than in Guatemala -- and now it will be shorter still.
After the coronavirus hit, South Korea and Ireland offered heartfelt assistance to Navajo Nation, in gratitude for help they had received in the past from Native Americans. The U.S. government, in contrast, has been more grudging in its help for Native communities.
What struck me in Navajo Nation was that 40% of homes don't even have running water. Navajo water goes to grow golf courses in Phoenix, while Navajo struggle to wash hands. The Navajo have done a good job handling the crisis, but they need help. My column: nyti.ms/3eA4mZw
