The Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise has announced that its casinos will remain closed through July 27 due to the pandemic.
Quincy Natay, chairman of the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise board of directors, commented, “We made this decision based on a number of factors, but our priority remains the safety of our team members, patrons and most importantly, our Diné people.”
On July 6, the Navajo Department of Health reported 74 new Covid-19 cases among nation members, but no new deaths. As a result, it also issued a new stay-at-home order. People may leave their homes to perform essential tasks, but must observe an 8 p.m. curfew, avoid public gatherings and wear masks in public.
The Navajo Nation’s four casinos—Fire Rock, Flowing Water and Northern Edge, all in New Mexico, and Twin Arrows, in Flagstaff, Arizona—have been closed since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
During the closure Navajo Gaming has kept employees on paid administrative leave, which includes health care. Eighty-two percent are members of the nation.
