Hello /r/IndianCountry.

As we know, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to plague our world. We are also familiar with the disproportionate and devastating impact it has had on our own Native communities. However, the prevalence of the COVID-19 vaccines have now made a significant impact in these numbers, allowing us to turn the tide on this disease. In fact, American Indians have the highest vaccination rate among any group in the United States.

Unfortunately, there is another plague out there besides this viral nightmare. That is the plague of misinformation. While it might seem like it is only those with nefarious agendas or apathetic attitudes who fall prey to the propaganda and debunked claims about the COVID-19 vaccines, the reality is that many of our relatives, friends, and family have fallen victim to these erroneous tails. Some in our communities have become wrapped up in this misinformation, resulting in its proliferation and possibly leading to more negative outcomes for our families. The last thing we want is for more of our relatives to end up the hospital--or worse, die--from COVID-19 when we now have the means to effectively combat it and prevent further impacts to our already devastated communities.

In order to help raise awareness about the safety of the vaccines, the moderators wish to ask the community to post any relevant resources, informational links, or explanatory sources that you may know of in this thread so we can make it accessible to those who visit this forum.

We are looking for information that is both general in nature about the safety of the vaccines, but also information that you may have access to or know about that specifically relates to Native communities and/or those who resides on reservations. The unfortunate reality is that while the COVID-19 vaccines are very safe, our peoples, like many marginalized and oppressed peoples, have suffered at the hands of the medical profession since the beginning of colonization. It is understandable that many of our relatives might have fears or hesitations. But we must also recognize that despite this very valid trauma, these vaccines are necessary if we want to protect those closest to us.

Qe'ci'yew'yew for your time and consideration.