Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs (SCIA), and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Vice Chairman of the SCIA, released the following statement recognizing National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives (MMIWR).

“On this day of awareness we acknowledge the families and communities who have lost loved ones to violence and those impacted by the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and people. This week, we honor their memory, share their stories, and acknowledge the deep pain felt by their loved ones in the wake of their absence,” said Senator Murkowski. “We have made good progress together, largely in thanks to the advocacy of Native communities across U.S. But, we must continue to raise awareness and demand justice. Our federal, state, and Tribal governments have a shared responsibility to protect Native peoples and ensure that no one is left behind. To the advocates, families, and community members who continue to speak truth, demand accountability, and work tirelessly to create a future rooted in safety, healing, and justice—I stand with you.”

“Too many Native families have endured the pain of a missing loved one or a violent loss with no answers and no justice. This crisis has been ignored for far too long—but it is real, urgent, and demands action,” said Senator Schatz. “We owe it to every victim and family to keep pushing for truth, safety, and accountability.”