Why Is There Widespread Silence on the MMIW Issue?

Why Is There Widespread Silence on the MMIW Issue?

By Bobby Darvish

darvishintelligence.blogspot.com 

The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) has increasingly drawn attention, yet remains shrouded in a troubling silence. This silence can be traced to multiple systemic issues, many of which are rooted in the historical and ongoing effects of the Indian Relocation Act and federal policies. The complexities surrounding jurisdictional challenges, lack of resources, and socio-economic vulnerabilities contribute to the profound underreporting and neglect of this critical issue.

Historical Context and Federal Policies

The Indian Relocation Act of 1956 aimed to assimilate Native Americans into urban American society by encouraging them to leave their tribal lands and integrate into city life. This policy, while ostensibly offering economic opportunities, displaced many Native Americans from their traditional communities. Consequently, only about 22% of Native Americans now live on tribal lands or reservations, with the majority residing in urban areas (National Congress of American Indians, 2021). This displacement has fragmented their social support systems and exacerbated their vulnerabilities.

The federal policies that followed have had long-lasting repercussions. These policies often ignored the unique needs of Native populations, failing to provide adequate resources or support for those living outside tribal lands. The lack of cultural and community ties in urban areas has intensified the challenges faced by Native Americans, particularly women, who are disproportionately affected by violence and exploitation.

Jurisdictional Complications

One of the central issues in addressing MMIW cases is the jurisdictional complexity that arises when Native Americans live off tribal lands. Law enforcement responsibilities are often divided between federal, state, and tribal authorities, each with its own protocols and priorities. This division can lead to confusion and inefficiency, as well as a lack of coordinated response in investigating and addressing cases of missing and murdered women.

According to the Department of Justice, many MMIW cases involve multiple jurisdictions, which complicates the investigation process (U.S. Department of Justice, 2020). The overlapping and sometimes conflicting jurisdictions can result in delays and a lack of comprehensive tracking of cases, further contributing to the silence surrounding this issue.

Socio-Economic Vulnerabilities

Urban Native Americans frequently face severe socio-economic challenges that exacerbate their vulnerability. Many are affected by poverty, homelessness, and isolation, factors that significantly increase their risk of becoming victims of violence. Janeen Comenote, executive director of the National Urban Indian Family Coalition, highlights that “poverty remains one of the most challenging aspects to contemporary urban Indian life” (Comenote, 2021). The lack of access to resources and support systems in urban settings leaves many Native individuals without the necessary assistance or protection.

The cycle of poverty and marginalization affects not only individual safety but also community stability. Without stable housing and employment, many urban Native Americans find themselves in precarious situations, further isolating them from their communities and increasing their exposure to risk.

The Need for Enhanced Reporting and Support Systems

To address the MMIW crisis effectively, there must be a concerted effort to improve reporting systems and enhance support for Native Americans living in urban areas. Strengthening coordination between federal, state, and tribal agencies is crucial for ensuring a more effective response to cases of missing and murdered women. Additionally, increasing funding and resources for urban Native American communities can help mitigate some of the socio-economic factors that contribute to their vulnerability.

Efforts should also focus on raising awareness and amplifying the voices of Native women and their advocates. By highlighting the unique challenges faced by this population and advocating for systemic changes, it is possible to combat the silence that surrounds the MMIW issue and work towards meaningful solutions.

Conclusion

The silence surrounding the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women issue is deeply rooted in historical injustices and systemic failures. The legacy of the Indian Relocation Act, jurisdictional complications, and socio-economic vulnerabilities all contribute to the challenges faced by Native American women. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes better coordination between agencies, increased support for urban Native communities, and greater awareness and advocacy. Only through these efforts can we hope to break the silence and address the crisis affecting Native American women.

References

Comenote, J. (2021). Personal communication. National Urban Indian Family Coalition.

National Congress of American Indians. (2021). Tribal Nations and the United States: An Introduction. National Congress of American Indians.

U.S. Department of Justice. (2020). Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Report. U.S. Department of Justice.