The Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council on Thursday reaffirmed its stay-at-home order in contrast to Colorado’s new “safer-at-home” phase.
“It is crucial the Tribe continues to adhere to the order requiring tribal members to stay home unless it is for essential activities,” according to a news release. “The continuation of the order is based on Tribal Council’s continuous assessment of the rapidly-changing and serious public health emergency.”
The council issued the stay-at-home order on March 25 in its effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.
“Having reviewed the basis of the State’s decision, and more importantly, considered the special needs concerns and vulnerabilities of the Southern Ute people, it has been determined that any relaxation of social distancing standards or practices is premature,” the release said.
The council’s order remains in place “until further notice.”
Tribal parks remain closed to gatherings of more than 5 people, but exercising is still encouraged while practicing social distancing. Face masks have been distributed to disabled/at-risk people as well as tribal elders.
The 1,064-square-mile Southern Ute Reservation is in three counties — La Plata, Archuleta and Montezuma. The tribe’s headquarters is in Ignacio and a seven-member Tribal Council governs the tribe, according to its website.
Any tribal member who is concerned about their health, or who may be experiencing coronavirus symptoms, is urged to call the Southern Ute Health Center at 970-563-4581.
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