MMIWG2S- What is it?

The Crisis of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People: A Call for Justice

Throughout history, Indigenous communities have faced systemic violence, discrimination, and erasure. Among the most heartbreaking and urgent injustices is the crisis of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). Across the United States, Canada, and beyond, Indigenous women and Two-Spirit individuals disproportionately face violence, abduction, and death—often with little accountability or resolution. This writing explores the historical roots of this crisis, its devastating societal impact, and the ongoing fight for justice.

Historical Context: The Legacy of Colonial Violence

The roots of the MMIWG2S crisis stretch back to the colonial period when Indigenous peoples were forcibly displaced, subjected to policies of assimilation, and stripped of their rights. In both the U.S. and Canada, government policies such as forced relocation, the Indian boarding school system, and the suppression of Indigenous sovereignty disrupted traditional family structures and exposed Indigenous communities to violence. The legacy of colonization created a cycle of vulnerability, where Indigenous women and Two-Spirit people faced heightened risks of abuse, trafficking, and systemic neglect.

For decades, law enforcement agencies have failed to respond effectively to cases involving missing or murdered Indigenous individuals. Jurisdictional conflicts between tribal, state, and federal authorities often complicate investigations, leaving families without answers or accountability. The lack of accurate data and reporting further deepens the crisis, making it difficult to grasp the true extent of the violence.

The Societal Impact: Enduring Trauma and Structural Inequality

The disappearance and murder of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people have profound consequences, not only for their families and communities but for society at large. These losses lead to cycles of grief, trauma, and fear, destabilizing Indigenous communities and undermining their ability to thrive. Survivors and the families left behind struggle for justice, facing indifference from authorities and a lack of institutional support.

Beyond personal and communal suffering, the crisis reflects deep-seated structural inequalities. Indigenous communities often experience higher rates of poverty, unemployment, and inadequate access to healthcare—factors that increase vulnerability to violence. Discrimination in legal systems, racial bias, and gender-based violence continue to exacerbate the issue, creating barriers to justice and protection.

The Fight for Justice: Advocacy and Policy Change

Indigenous activists, grassroots organizations, and allies have tirelessly worked to bring attention to the MMIWG2S crisis. Movements such as "No More Stolen Sisters," the REDress Project, and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls have helped raise awareness and demand change. In Canada, the 2019 National Inquiry concluded that the MMIWG2S epidemic constituted "a genocide," urging urgent systemic reform.

In the U.S., legislation such as Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act seek to improve data collection and strengthen collaboration between tribal and federal agencies in addressing cases of missing and murdered Indigenous persons. However, despite these efforts, many cases remain unsolved, and justice remains elusive for far too many families.

Conclusion: Honoring Lives, Demanding Action

The MMIWG2S crisis is not just a tragedy—it is a call to action. It underscores the need for policy reform, public awareness, and sustained advocacy to combat violence against Indigenous communities. Governments, law enforcement agencies, and the public must actively work toward solutions that prioritize accountability, Indigenous sovereignty, and the protection of all Indigenous lives.

While awareness has grown, the fight is far from over. Honoring the memory of those lost means ensuring their voices are heard, demanding justice, and building a future where Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people are safe, valued, and protected.

#MMIWG2S #reddress