On February 14, 2025, hundreds gathered in Minneapolis for the 10th annual march honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR). Participants carried signs with messages such as “We are not invisible” and “No more stolen sisters,” aiming to raise awareness about the disproportionate rates of violence faced by Indigenous communities.
The event, organized by local Indigenous leaders and community members, commenced at the Minneapolis American Indian Center. Speakers included family members of missing individuals, such as Teddi Wind, mother of Nevaeh Kingbird, who has been missing since 2021. Wind shared heartfelt memories of her daughter, emphasizing her love for Ojibwe culture and education. She stated, “I will always look for my daughter until I find her and find answers.”
According to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, 716 Indigenous people were reported missing in the state in 2024 alone. Despite comprising less than 1% of Minnesota’s population, Indigenous individuals account for a significant portion of missing person cases.
The MMIR Office, established to address this crisis, unveiled a new specialty license plate during the event. Proceeds from the plate will fund the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag reward fund, supporting efforts to locate missing Indigenous persons.
State Senator Mary Kunesh, a longtime advocate for Indigenous rights, addressed the crowd, urging attendees to educate themselves on the historical trauma contributing to the current crisis. She highlighted the importance of understanding the social impacts of systemic issues such as homelessness and joblessness on Native communities.
The march concluded with a call to action for continued support, policy changes, and community engagement to combat the epidemic of violence against Indigenous people.
Sources:
- A day of remembrance honors, spotlights missing and murdered Indigenous relatives
- Minnesota BCA reports 716 Indigenous persons missing in 2024, hundreds march to raise awareness
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Office (MMIR)
- Hundreds march through Minneapolis for missing and murdered Indigenous relatives
