Indigenous Elders’ knowledge has saved lives during the pandemic – Ricochet Media

Memories of deadly disease outbreaks and traditional wisdom have prepared First Nations for COVID-19

When COVID-19 hit this country, many First Nations responded quickly to the health threat by closing their communities to outsiders. Many of these rapid responses can, at least in part, be attributed to their knowledge of the past.

Thanks to the teachings of Elders, they have not forgotten the deadly outbreaks of diseases like the Spanish flu and smallpox that led to high mortality rates for their communities.

The history of colonialism is inseparable from the history of disease, and survival and resistance depend on the memories that Elders transmit to their communities.

Read More: https://ricochet.media/en/3640/indigenous-elders-knowledge-has-saved-lives-during-the-pandemic

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