Honoring lives, demanding justice: MMIWR week of action 

This week, we recognize the National Week of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives (MMIWR). 

Across Tribal communities, Indigenous women and relatives face alarming rates of violence and disappearance. On some reservations, the risk of murder is more than ten times the national average. These realities are deeply connected to domestic and sexual violence, trafficking, and systemic inequities that have impacted Indigenous communities for generations. 

This week is not only about awareness. 

It is about remembrance, truth, and collective responsibility. 

The movement behind MMIWR was built by families and advocates who refused to let their loved ones be forgotten. What began as grassroots organizing has grown into a national call to honor lives, uplift voices, and demand accountability. 

At Esperanza United, we stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities and all those working to end violence. We believe meaningful change happens when communities lead, when stories are honored with dignity, and when awareness leads to action. 

Ending domestic and sexual violence requires us to work across communities, recognizing that while experiences differ, the need for culturally grounded, community-led solutions remains constant. 

We invite you to learn more about the Week of Action and how you can engage.