A Missing or Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) Task Force has been formed to address high rates of violence against Indigenous people in Michigan.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessell announced the formation of the task force on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024. It’s a collaboration that brings together tribal, federal, and state and local prosecutors, law enforcement officers, victim advocates, and human services specialists to identify, develop, and implement solutions to the MMIP crisis.
According to the AG’s office, studies show that nearly 85% of Indigenous women experience violence in their lifetime.
“The MMIP Task Force marks a critical first step in combatting abuse and violence against Indigenous people in Michigan,” Nessel said. “By prosecuting and tackling the root causes of these crimes, working directly with this broad coalition of MMIP Task Force members, we can build safer communities and pave the way for justice for the families and victims impacted by this crisis. I look forward to working alongside tribal leaders and state, federal, and nonprofit partners to create real, systematic change for Michigan’s Indigenous population.”
The MMIP Task Force was created to improve the investigation and prosecution of cases involving missing or murdered Indigenous people. They will examine factors that contribute to the vulnerability of Indigenous people, particularly women, children, and two-spirit people. The task force aims to create a holistic, victim-centered, and culturally honoring approach to prevention, response, and support, according to the AG’s office.
The first MMIP Task Force meeting was held in September. Tribal leaders, state and federal agencies, and advocacy groups discussed raising awareness, identifying contributing factors, and developing solutions to the MMIP crisis in Michigan.
The next meeting will be held in December.
Tip line created
A tip line has been created to connect with MMIP victims.
Anyone with information about missing or murdered Indigenous people in Michigan can call 517-284-0008.
The tip line is in addition to federal and tribal resources that have been put in place, including tribal community response plans.