Task force formed to address high levels of violence against Indigenous people in Michigan

The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) Task Force was formed to combat the high rate of violence against Indigenous peoples in Michigan.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessell announced the formation of the task force on Friday, November 22, 2024. It is a collaboration that brings together tribal, federal, state and local prosecutors, law enforcement officials, victim advocates and social service professionals to identify, develop and implement solutions to the MMIP crisis.

According to the Attorney General’s office, research shows that nearly 85% of Indigenous women experience violence in their lifetime.

“The MMIP Task Force marks an important first step in combating abuse and violence against Indigenous people in Michigan,” Nessel said. “By investigating and addressing 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 to justice for the families and victims impacted by this crisis. “I look forward to working with tribal leaders, as well as state, federal and nonprofit partners to create real, systematic change for Michigan’s Native people.”

The MMIP Working Group was created to improve the investigation and prosecution of cases involving missing and murdered Indigenous people. They will explore factors that contribute to the vulnerability of Indigenous people, especially women, children and Two-Spirit people. According to the Attorney General’s office, the task force strives to create a holistic, victim-centered, and culturally respectful approach to prevention, response and support.

The first meeting of the MMIP Task Force took place 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 take place in December.

Hint line created

A hotline has been established to contact MMIP victims.

Anyone with information about missing or murdered Indigenous people in Michigan can call 517-284-0008.

The helpline complements existing federal and tribal resources, including tribal community response plans.