Friday, March 29, 2024

Member of Cowichan Tribes dies in COVID-19 outbreak

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A member of Cowichan Tribes has passed away in the midst of an ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 in the First Nation community.

The death was confirmed publicly on January 26 by Chief William Seymour, who said in a statement that the individual’s identity will be kept confidential.

“I ask that all media and everyone to give the space and opportunity for the family and our community to grieve and support each other during this difficult time,” Seymour said.

Cowichan Tribes added that they will be pausing their regular COVID-19 updates out of respect for the deceased person’s family and to revisit their current pandemic plan.

A shelter in place order that was originally implemented on January 6 in the First Nation has been extended until February 5.

Seymour also repeated his earlier condemnation of racism that has affected Cowichan Tribes and other indigenous people on Vancouver Island following the news of the Nation’s outbreak.

“It is important to emphasize that the COVID-19 virus can be found in every community,” he said.

“It can affect anyone and at any time. Racism and discrimination has no place in our society, and we must work together to help each other through this unprecedented time and prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

Tim Ford
Tim Ford
Digital staff writer with Victoria Buzz

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