The Justice Department, spearheaded by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, has reinforced its commitment to Indigenous communities on National Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Day, putting a spotlight on the federal drive to address this enduring crisis and related public safety concerns, including the scourge of fentanyl, according to a statement.
Garland recognized the unsettling violence that has plagued Tribal communities, particularly impacting women and girls, stating, "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," moreover, he pressed for justice and safety as paramount rights for these communities, asserting that the Justice Department's resolve was steadfast in tackling these issues head-on, and he emphasized their dedication to being "true partners" with Tribal communities in eradicating this crisis.
Addressing a knotty problem, United States Attorney Gary Restaino remarked on the need for a refined approach to sensitive cases involving missing Indigenous individuals, mentioning, "The uncertainty caused in a missing persons case can exacerbate trauma for family and friends," He also highlighted the necessity of sensitizing legal processes to Tribal customs, according to the Justice Department's announcement.
FBI Director Christopher Wray pledged unwavering support for addressing violence in Tribal communities, while DEA Administrator Anne Milgram recognized the dangers posed by drugs, chiefly fentanyl, vowing continued efforts to protect these communities from such perils, both emphasizing inter-agency and Tribal collaboration as key to addressing the sweeping issues of violence and drug abuse that heighten the risk factors for missing and murdered Indigenous persons.
To bolster efforts, the MMIP Regional Outreach Program was launched last July, situating specialized personnel in key regions to aid in the prevention and response to MMIP incidents. Further, on May 2 and 4, Justice Department representatives are set to partake in awareness events in Arizona, demonstrating support and commitment to the cause, the department outlined.
The Justice Department has allocated $268 million in grants over the past year, aiming to enhance tribal justice systems and strengthen law enforcement response. This financial support also improves how child abuse cases are handled, combats domestic and sexual violence, bolsters youth programs, and strengthens victim services in Tribal communities. For those searching for resources or reporting missing individuals, further information can be found on the department's Tribal Safety and Justice website.
