May 5th: Honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Awareness Day
Every year on May 5th, communities across the United States and Canada observe Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Awareness Day, a day to remember, to speak names that should never be forgotten, and to demand justice for lives that too often go overlooked.
This is not just a day of awareness. It is a call to action.
Why MMIW Awareness Day Matters
Indigenous women and girls face disproportionately high rates of violence, disappearance, and homicide. In many cases, their stories receive little media attention, their investigations are delayed or mishandled, and their families are left searching for answers on their own.
Jurisdictional challenges between tribal, local, state, and federal authorities have historically created gaps in investigations. Data collection has been inconsistent, and many cases have gone unreported or misclassified.
Behind every statistic is a person—a daughter, a sister, a mother, a friend—whose absence leaves a permanent void.
The Symbolism of Red
Red has become the color of the MMIW movement. You may see red handprints painted across faces, red dresses hanging in trees, or entire gatherings dressed in red.
These symbols represent:
- The voices of those who are missing
- The bloodshed that has too often gone unanswered
- The visibility that has long been denied
The red handprint, in particular, is a powerful statement—symbolizing the silencing of Indigenous voices.
Real People. Real Cases.
There are countless cases that deserve attention—many without the coverage they need to generate leads or accountability.
Women like Ashley Loring Heavyrunner, who disappeared from the Blackfeet Nation in Montana in 2017, remain missing. Her case, like many others, highlights the urgent need for awareness, resources, and coordinated investigation.
And she is not alone.
Families continue to search. Communities continue to advocate. But they should not have to do it alone.
The Role of Awareness
Awareness can make a difference. Sharing a name, a photo, a story—it can lead to tips, reignite investigations, and put pressure on agencies to act.
But awareness must be sustained. It cannot begin and end on May 5th.
If we truly want change, we must:
- Continue sharing cases year-round
- Support Indigenous-led organizations and advocacy groups
- Demand better data collection and transparency
- Push for stronger legislation and accountability
How You Can Help
Today, and every day, you can take action:
- Share MMIW cases on social media
- Listen to and amplify Indigenous voices
- Support organizations working directly with affected families
- Attend local events or vigils if available
- Educate yourself and others about the crisis
Even small actions can help bring attention to cases that need it most.
A Commitment to Remember
At Where are they? Podcast, our mission has always been to bring awareness to missing persons, especially those who are underreported and overlooked.
MMIW Awareness Day is a reminder that there are still so many stories that need to be told.
So today, we remember.
We speak their names.
We share their stories.
And we ask the question that still remains for far too many:
Where are they?
If you know of a Missing or Murdered Indigenous Woman case that deserves more attention, please share it. Awareness can be the first step toward answers.
