Missing in California Indian Country

Last Saturday, September 30th, our staff participated in the Missing in California’s Indian Country hosted at Soboba Casino Resort. Through this event, families were able to gain updates on cases of family members who have went missing or have been murdered, report a loved one missing, learn additional resources to help families who have been affected by the crisis, and participate in culturally sensitive healing practices with the community. With attendees upward of 200 Tribal and non-tribal community members, the event successfully provided information on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Person crisis and provided support for families that have been affected.

The event was created as a response to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous people and their families in California and California Assembly Bill 3099 which is aimed at addressing the epidemic. As a state, California is home to over 700,000 American Indian and Alaska Native people living both on and off reservations. Southern California itself is home to over 30 tribes and tribal communities. However, the Native American population in California are ultimately highly underreported in the areas of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. The event allowed multiple families to discuss their loved one's case and receive direct updates and connections with law enforcement agencies. All in all, the event was a great way for those that have been affected by the crisis to gain more information and for some, closure.We look forward to continued efforts from the California Department of Justice at helping end the MMIP crisis.

If you or your family has been affected by the MMIP epidemic, the CA Department of Justice wants to hear of your experiences with Law Enforcement and the investigation. If you are willing to share, please reach out to our Outreach, Prevention, and Education Coordinator, Cesar Segura for more information.