Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Awareness Day

WHEREAS, all Alaskans have the right to safety and justice, and the elevated rates of missing and murdered Indigenous persons in Alaska is a serious problem; and

WHEREAS, in 2023, Alaska reported 155 cases of missing and murdered Indigenous persons - 143 missing and 12 murdered ; and

WHEREAS, Alaska Natives experience disproportionate rates of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes according to the Indian Law and Order Commission's 2013 report. Alaska Native women are overrepresented in the domestic violence victim population by 250 percent, and even though Alaska Natives make up 19 percent of the population in Alaska, they represent 47 percent of the reported rape victims in the State; and

WHEREAS, the call for a greater response to the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people led to increased communication between tribal communities and State agencies in an effort to better understand the scope of the issue; and

WHEREAS, the need continues for collaboration between Alaska Native Tribes and State, local, and other entities to raise awareness of the issue, to allocate the proper resources, and to improve coordination and investigation efforts under State law; and

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is committed to continuing its efforts to work with Alaska Tribes in combatting this crisis and offering support to communities and families who have for years carried the burden of honoring, remembering, and searching for those who remain missing or victims of unsolved murders.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim May 5, 2024 as:

Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Awareness Day

in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to recognize the elevated rates of missing and murdered Indigenous persons and support law enforcement, victim advocacy, and the efforts of Alaska Native Tribes to work with State, local, and other entities working together toward solutions.

Dated: May 5, 2024