In a video address to his people on April 2, 2020, Governor Brian D. Vallo of the Pueblo of Acoma was overcome with emotion when discussing the impact of the coronavirus on the tribe’s most vulnerable — and most hopeful — population.
“You’re our most precious resource,” Vallo said in a portion of the video addressed to youth.
“You’re the future of this tribe,” Vallo said.
Vallo’s entire message lasted a little over an hour. He spoke in the Keres language and in English to explain why the tribe has shut down operations and businesses and is halting all ceremonies and public activities in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Acoma is most well known for Sky City, a village sitting atop a mesa west of Albuquerque, the most populous municipality in New Mexico. Sky City is a major tourist attraction and economic engine for the tribe and remains closed to outsiders.
Pueblo of Acoma COVID-19 Tribal Update: https://youtu.be/_03NsZfEvjo
