Alaska has been plagued by a scourge of violence, with hundreds of American Indians and Alaska Natives suffering injustices for centuries, including rampant domestic and sexual violence carried out primarily against women and girls.
Attorney General William P. Barr was criticized for his response to the crisis, as he issued a statement on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives Awareness Day. Despite the mounting concerns, Barr chose to focus on a proclamation by President Trump, rather than concrete actions to address the issue.
The President’s proclamation was seen as a step in the right direction, but many felt that it was too little, too late. The Presidential Task Force, co-chaired by Katie Sullivan, was established to address the crisis, but its effectiveness remains to be seen.
Barr emphasized the importance of partnership with Tribal Nations to end the cycle of violence. However, critics argue that words are not enough and that concrete actions are needed to address the root causes of the issue.
The Attorney General highlighted the $270 million in grant funding provided in fiscal year 2019 to support public safety and victim services. While this may seem like a significant investment, many feel that it is not enough to make a meaningful impact.
Barr also announced the hiring of 11 coordinators to consult with tribes and develop common protocols to address the scourge of violence. However, the effectiveness of these coordinators and their plans remains to be seen.
As the community continues to reel from the effects of violence, many are left wondering if the proclamation and the Task Force are enough to bring healing, justice, hope, and restoration to American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Only time will tell if the Attorney General’s words will translate into meaningful action.
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Key Facts
- State: Alaska
- Category: Violent Crime|Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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