Small, Two Household Gatherings Permitted in Kahnawake

In an effort to reduce stress levels among Kahnawaero:non, the COVID-19 Task Force will allow gatherings between two households at a time only. And at a maximum of once per week. The new measure goes into effect on Friday.

Commissioner of Public Safety Lloyd Phillips, speaking on Kahnawake 911 on Facebook on Thursday, said that parties are still not permitted. As well it does not allow for gatherings from multiple households. It also means that three family members from three different households may not gather together. “It is in order to minimize the possibility of contacts,” Phillips said. Masks, distance and hand washing are still strongly recommended.

“The Task Force recognizes the exhaustion, stress, fatigue and anxiety the community is feeling,” said Lisa Westaway, the Executive Director of the Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre. “We are focussed on the psycho social and mental well being of the community, as well as our physical health.”

There are three active cases now in Kahnawake.

The Task Force is still asking people to remain cautious. “We are still at a very high level of risk in Kahnawake,” Westaway said. “The number of cases continues to rise in communities around us.”