MMIW

The missing and murdered Indigenous women epidemic (MMIW) is a crisis issue currently affecting Indigenous people. This crisis affects the United States and Canada, including the First Nations, Inuit, Metis, FNM, and Native American communities. According to the National Institute of Justice, Native women experience violence of twice the rate of women in the U.S. in which over 1.5 million Native women have experienced violence, including sexual violence, in their lifetime. The movement to raise awareness about the epidemic of native women going missing or being killed needs to spoken about through the red hand. The red hand symbolizes the voices of these women being silenced. When I (Ayasha) danced at the New Years Sobriety Powwow this year the red hand was painted on my face. As I prayed and danced, I felt these women's and children's' pain and suffering. I prayed for the missing to be found and healed and the murdered for their spirits to rest in peace. As the New Year rolled over each step of the dance, I imagined the harmony of the drums would echo in these women's and children's ears to provide the strength and a light of hope they will need. These women and children's hearts are aching to be returned home. The lonely feeling with emotions of hopelessness can pierce their spirits and weaken them. This is why it's crucial we all stand up against this epidemic and make a combined impact that influences the government to stop these Human Trafficking organizations and criminals. We need to be the voice for those who can't ask for help because they are being silenced. The missing and murdered crisis American Indian and Alaska Natives face today need to be spoken about to educate others of the alarming rise in numbers. The tribes need to be heard by the government so that they can work together to put a stop to this horrific crisis. Help Stop Human Trafficking In efforts for the protection and bringing awareness to the reality of Native American, Alaska Native, and all women and children of all cultures across the world.