A solemn ‘Walk for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People’ took place on Thursday evening at the University of Alaska Anchorage, bringing attention to the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous communities.

Event Highlights

The walk was organized by the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP). Participants gathered at the ANSEP building at 5:30 p.m. to honor those lost and advocate for justice.

Cultural Performances & Speakers

The Qissunamiut Yurartet Dancers began the march with a moving drum procession. Upon returning to the ANSEP building, they performed a traditional ceremony.

Tatiana Ticknor, a Dena’ina, Deg Hit’an, and Lingit woman and program coordinator for Data for Indigenous Justice, delivered a powerful speech. She is actively involved in reclaiming data and advocating for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).

“If I don’t fight for justice for my son or any missing or murdered Indigenous person, then who’s going to fight for them? We are the ones, as Alaska Natives, who must stand up so we can get justice for anybody that’s missing or murdered,”

Ticknor’s words deeply resonated with attendees, many of whom have been personally impacted by violence.

Addressing Systemic Issues

The walk served as both a call to action and a moment of collective healing for survivors, families, and allies. It also highlighted systemic issues contributing to the disproportionate rates of violence against Indigenous people.

These issues include inadequate law enforcement response, jurisdictional gaps, and the lasting effects of historical trauma.

Other Alaska News

In other news from Alaska, a man was hospitalized with serious injuries after a crash at the Slush Cup event. Additionally, the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) was reduced to $1,000 in the latest state budget, sparking debate.

Despite these challenges, the ‘Walk for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People’ demonstrated the resilience and determination of Alaska’s Indigenous communities in their ongoing fight for justice and healing.