Day of Awareness Highlights Crisis Facing Indigenous Peoples

Communities across the United States observed National Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Day through events such as prayer walks, rallies, art exhibits, and justice marches in cities including Missoula, Palm Springs, Colorado Springs, and Boise. Organizers highlighted the crisis of violence in Native communities, noting that Indigenous women are murdered at nearly ten times the national average and that many cases remain unsolved due to systemic neglect and underreporting. Ceremonies, advocacy speeches, self-defense classes, and displays of art were central to the gatherings, promoting healing and collective action. Calls for justice included demands for improved legal protections, better data collection, and more resources for families. Task forces and grassroots organizations offered support to those searching for missing loved ones and worked to raise public awareness. Indigenous leaders and advocates underscored the need for community solidarity and the critical role of allies in seeking justice and remembrance.