Uplifting Indigenous Women and the Fight Against Violence

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, cultures, and significant contributions of Native American communities while also recognizing the challenges they continue to face. This month of celebration traces its origins back to the early 20th century, when Seneca archaeologist Dr. Arthur C. Parker advocated for a day dedicated to recognizing Native Americans. In 1916, New York became the first state to observe "American Indian Day," and in 1990, President George H.W. Bush proclaimed November as National Native American Heritage Month.

This month is also a powerful reminder that the fight for Indigenous sovereignty, reparations, and cultural preservation is ongoing. We must recognize and address how systems of oppression, including settler colonialism, continue to affect Indigenous peoples' right to freedom and well-being.

One of the most urgent public health issues in the United States is the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) epidemic. Indigenous women in the U.S. face violence at significantly higher rates than other groups, with homicide being one of the leading causes of death for Indigenous women under 44 (Urban Indian Health Institute, 2018). Due to systemic gaps in data collection, law enforcement jurisdictional challenges, and insufficient media coverage, many cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women go unreported and unresolved, contributing to a heinous cycle of inaction.

It's essential to learn from the leaders, advocates, and organizations who are shaping the movement to combat violence against Indigenous women. Community-driven efforts, such as those led by Indigenous activists, grassroots organizations, and tribal leaders, are at the forefront of raising awareness and advocating for justice. Organizations like the National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (NIWRC), Native Hope, and Urban Indian Health Institute (UIHI) work tirelessly to address gaps in data collection, support families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, and push for policy changes that protect tribal, land, and Indigenous sovereignty.

Specific to challenges around law enforcement and jurisdiction, advocates are calling for comprehensive reforms, including improved evaluation and data collection efforts, expanded federal support, and stronger interjurisdictional coordination among tribal, federal, and state law enforcement. Recently, initiatives such as Savanna's Act and the Not Invisible Act have been enacted to improve law enforcement response, though much more work remains to ensure these efforts are fully implemented, monitored, and supported.

At a community level, Indigenous-led organizations are promoting prevention through culturally grounded programs that empower women and educate communities. Some are creating databases and networks for tracking missing cases, while others are providing legal aid, mental health resources, and safe spaces for survivors and families. Healing through traditional practices, ceremonies, and community gatherings is also central to these efforts.

In order to address the MMIW crisis, it is critical for allies, policymakers, and community members to stand in solidarity, uplift and learn from Indigenous voices, and commit to action that respects tribal sovereignty and supports sustainable change. Together, we must honor those lost, support survivors, and work toward a future where Indigenous women and girls are protected, valued, and safe.

As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, let's continue to reflect on the critical role of Indigenous leaders in creating sustainable solutions, while committing ourselves to anti-racism, cultural preservation, and solidarity with Indigenous communities. By supporting Indigenous-led movements and advocating for the rights and sovereignty of Indigenous people, we collectively move towards a more equitable and inclusive society.

To learn more about getting involved, explore the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women and the National Indigenous Women's Resource Center. These organizations, along with many others, offer resources, learning materials, programming, policy information, funding, and opportunities for advocacy.

Citations 

Urban Indian Health Institute. Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls: A Snapshot of Data from 71 Urban Cities in the United States. Seattle, WA, 2018. https://www.uihi.org/resources/missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-girls/