Governor Dunleavy Proclaims May 5, 2025 as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Awareness Day in Alaska
In a critical recognition of the alarming rates of missing and murdered Indigenous individuals in Alaska, Governor Mike Dunleavy has proclaimed May 5, 2025, as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Awareness Day. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the crisis that disproportionately affects Alaska Native communities.
Statistics reveal that Alaska Native women are overrepresented in domestic violence cases by 250 percent. While Alaska Natives make up 19 percent of the state’s population, they account for 47 percent of reported rape victims. This disparity highlights the urgent need for action.
The state’s response to this crisis has evolved significantly, fostering improved collaboration between tribal communities and state agencies. Currently, Alaska employs four MMIP investigators and two tribal liaisons, focusing on addressing these cases and working closely with families of the victims.
In 2024, Governor Dunleavy signed legislation to enhance the state’s approach, mandating the entry of missing persons into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System and requiring cultural diversity training for all current and future law enforcement officers with a focus on MMIP issues.
The State of Alaska is dedicated to sustaining its efforts in combating this crisis and offering essential support to affected communities and families. Governor Dunleavy encourages all Alaskans to recognize the elevated rates of missing and murdered Indigenous persons and to support law enforcement, victim advocacy, and the collective work of Alaska Native Tribes, state and local entities aimed at achieving solutions.
Dated: May 5, 2025
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Photo credit gov.alaska.gov
