The Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW): A Call to Action

The ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW) is a painful reality that has haunted Native communities for decades. The issue, largely ignored by mainstream media and public policy, highlights the systemic injustice, racism, and neglect faced by Indigenous women and girls across North America.

At Tribal Fit Gear, we are committed to promoting health, empowerment, and cultural strength within our communities, and raising awareness for MMIW is an essential part of that mission. Together, we can amplify voices, support change, and honor those whose lives have been taken far too soon.

The Scope of the Crisis

Native women and girls in the U.S. and Canada face disproportionate rates of violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and murder.

• In the U.S., Native women are murdered at rates up to 10 times higher than the national average, with cases frequently going unsolved.
• In Canada, the National Inquiry into MMIWG identified over 1,000 cases in recent decades, describing the crisis as a “genocide”.

Beyond the statistics, there are untold stories of trauma—mothers losing daughters, families waiting years for justice, and survivors fighting to make their voices heard.

MMIW and Systemic Injustice

The root causes of this crisis are deeply tied to colonization, systemic racism, and poverty. Contributing factors include:

• Jurisdictional barriers: Cases involving Native victims are often lost in jurisdictional limbo between tribal, state, and federal authorities.
• Underreporting: Due to fear, mistrust, or a lack of proper resources, many crimes go unreported.
• Lack of attention from law enforcement: Some families report waiting years before police begin investigating a missing loved one.

This neglect perpetuates cycles of violence, creating gaps that make Indigenous women and girls uniquely vulnerable.

The Movement for Justice: No More Stolen Sisters

Organizations across the U.S. and Canada have mobilized to address MMIW, raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and supporting affected families.

• The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, Inc. (NIWRC). A Native-led nonprofit organization dedicated to ending violence against Native women and children.
• No More Stolen Sisters: Amnesty International's campaign focuses on human rights, pressuring governments to take meaningful action.

On tribal lands, initiatives such as the Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act have strengthened tracking and data collection for missing persons cases. However, much more must be done.

How You Can Help

Every individual can make a difference by taking action:

1. Spread Awareness: Wear MMIW advocacy apparel, such as designs from Tribal Fit Gear. A portion of proceeds from these items will support Indigenous advocacy groups.
2. Support Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with groups like MMIWG2S Family and Community Resources.
3. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the histories and cultures of Indigenous communities and why the MMIW crisis exists.
4. Advocate for Policy Change: Contact your representatives to support legislation like the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Not Invisible Act.

Honoring the Lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women

At Tribal Fit Gear, we honor the MMIW movement through collaboration and education. Our “No More Stolen Sisters” collection represents solidarity and support for Indigenous women. By purchasing from this line, you're raising awareness to this important issue.

Indigenous women are the lifeblood of their communities—caretakers, leaders, and warriors. Addressing the crisis of MMIW is about justice, but it’s also about the survival and resilience of Indigenous cultures.

Join us at Tribal Fit Gear to make a difference. Together, we can fight for justice, safety, and empowerment for Native women everywhere.

For more resources and to learn about upcoming events, visit National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center.