National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
May 5 marks a significant day of remembrance and action—the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). This day shines a spotlight on the alarming crisis faced by Indigenous women and girls across North America, who experience murder rates more than ten times the national average. In Montana, the situation is particularly dire, with Indigenous women being four times more likely to be reported missing than their non-Indigenous counterparts. This article delves into the ongoing crisis, highlighting the stories and efforts of those working to address these injustices.
The Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons
The statistics surrounding Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) are staggering and deeply troubling. Indigenous women face systemic issues that contribute to their vulnerability, including poverty, lack of access to resources, and a justice system that often fails to protect them. Many families are left searching for answers, grappling with the loss of loved ones while navigating a complex and often indifferent legal landscape.
In Montana, the crisis is particularly pronounced. The state’s Indigenous communities have been disproportionately affected, with many families reporting that they know someone who has gone missing or been murdered. This shared trauma underscores the urgent need for action and advocacy.
Grassroots Efforts: Ohkomi Forensics
In response to this crisis, grassroots organizations are stepping up to fill the gaps left by the justice system. One such initiative is Ohkomi Forensics, founded by a dedicated PhD student at the University of Montana. This non-profit organization is committed to investigating MMIP cases, re-opening cold cases, and providing support to families searching for their missing loved ones.
The founder of Ohkomi Forensics has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of MMIP on her community. She expressed her frustration with the justice system, stating, “I’ve just seen so many cases fall through the cracks.” This sentiment resonates with many Indigenous families who feel abandoned by the very institutions meant to protect them.
Community-Centered Investigations
Ohkomi Forensics takes a unique approach to addressing the MMIP crisis by focusing on community-centered investigations. The organization mobilizes volunteers and resources to conduct searches on the ground, often in areas where law enforcement resources are scarce. “In the city, we can have people flying over, we can have cadaver dogs, we have the FBI,” she explained. “But you go back to the reservation, and it’s just us and the family that’s out there searching.”
This hands-on approach not only aids in locating missing individuals but also fosters a sense of community solidarity and empowerment. Families are actively involved in the search, which can provide a measure of closure and hope in the face of overwhelming grief.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement
In addition to grassroots efforts, Ohkomi Forensics is working to establish collaborative networks with law enforcement agencies. Through an agreement with the Montana State Crime Lab, the organization is analyzing DNA evidence and skeletal remains, which can be crucial in solving cold cases. This partnership aims to bring more resources to reservations, ensuring that Indigenous communities have access to the same forensic capabilities as urban areas.
The goal is not only to solve individual cases but also to advocate for systemic changes that will improve the overall response to MMIP cases. By bringing Indigenous voices to the table, the organization seeks to influence policy and create a more equitable justice system.
A Vision for the Future
As she approaches the completion of her PhD in Forensic and Molecular Anthropology, the founder of Ohkomi Forensics remains committed to her mission. She envisions a future where all reservations have access to advanced forensic testing facilities, enabling communities to take control of their own cases and advocate for justice.
This vision is rooted in the belief that Indigenous people can reclaim their narratives and assert their rights within the justice system. “This nonprofit, as an Indigenous person, as a woman, we can show people that we can take control over our own cases,” she stated. This empowerment is crucial in the fight against the systemic injustices that have plagued Indigenous communities for far too long.
Conclusion
The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis affecting Indigenous communities. Through grassroots initiatives like Ohkomi Forensics, families are finding hope and support in their search for justice. As awareness grows and advocacy efforts continue, there is a collective movement toward healing, empowerment, and ultimately, change. The stories of those affected by MMIP are not just statistics; they are calls to action that demand our attention and commitment to justice.