CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In a dismal reminder of the ongoing crisis, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in North Carolina is joining forces with the Department of Justice and Tribal communities to commemorate National Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day on May 5.
The stark reality of this national issue is a haunting one: despite years of efforts, violence against American Indian and Alaska Native communities persists at an alarming rate, with women and girls bearing the brunt of this senseless brutality. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland addressed the issue, saying, “There is still so much more to do in the face of persistently high levels of violence that Tribal communities have endured for generations, and that women and girls, particularly, have endured.”
U.S. Attorney Dena J. King echoed the Attorney General’s sentiments, stating, “Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day is a time to stand with our Tribal communities in honoring and remembering the loved ones who were lost to violence or remain missing. It is also a moment to reaffirm our commitment to continue to collaborate with our Tribal partners to enhance public safety, address the root causes of violence that disproportionately harm Tribal communities, and support crime victims, survivors, and their families.”
The Department of Justice is taking a multifaceted approach to tackle the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) crisis, including efforts to address human trafficking and the fentanyl crisis in Tribal communities. In recognition of MMIP Awareness Day, Attorney General Garland highlighted these ongoing efforts to tackle the MMIP and trafficking crises.
To commemorate the occasion, U.S. Attorney’s Office personnel will participate in the 5th Annual Walk and Vigil for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives on Sunday, May 5, at Oconaluftee Island Park in Cherokee.
For those seeking to support the Department of Justice’s efforts to address the MMIP crisis, the Tribal Safety and Justice website provides valuable resources and information on reporting or identifying missing persons. It’s a crucial step in bringing justice to those affected by this devastating issue.
As the nation pauses to reflect on the lives lost and the loved ones left behind, it’s essential to acknowledge the tireless work of law enforcement agencies and Tribal leaders working to address the MMIP crisis. Their dedication to justice and their commitment to preserving the lives and dignity of Indigenous communities is a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
The DOJ’s MMIP Awareness Day serves as a poignant reminder of the need for continued action and collaboration in the pursuit of justice. As the nation moves forward, it’s crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and to support the efforts of those working tirelessly to address the MMIP crisis.
Related Federal Cases
- Justice Department Fails Indigenous Nations: MMIP Crisis Deepens · Alaska
- Justice Fails Indigenous Communities: MMIP Crisis Unabated · Alaska
- MMIP Crisis Deepens: DOJ Stepped Up Efforts to Tackle Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons · Alaska
- Oregon Feds Step Up for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day · Washington
- MMIP Crisis Deepens: DOJ Struggles to Address Epidemic of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons · Alaska
Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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