When a woman goes missing in our community, or dies unexpectedly and often from suspicious circumstances, our communities go through a series of emotions from grief to anger. We are sad for the loss of our loved ones and we often have so many questions and concerns and no place to turn for answers. We are concerned about where she might be and who can help us with answers. After days, weeks, months or even years go by without adequate answers, we are angered about why we are not getting the necessary help. The missing and murder of Indigenous women, or “MMIW” is gaining national recognition and federal and states are now trying to develop a plan to address the need for data. Even still, we are without closure and have unanswered questions about what happened and who is responsible for the victims that are currently missing.
Beginning in April 2019, the Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center (AKNWRC) will host monthly calls on MMIW with the goal of developing community
action plans when a woman goes missing or is found dead from unnatural causes. We hope to put together a plan that includes information and action that can be undertaken to address the emotional needs, who to contact for answers, and what services can be available. It is clear that we need to act to raise awareness of these issues and to assist in finding answers and resolutions to promote healing within our communities.
Please join us the first Friday of every month at 11:00 am ADT by joining goto meeting @ https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/650401253; or call 1–646-749‑3131 Code 650–401-253