American Indian and Alaska Native communities have struggled for decades with violent crime rates that are higher than the national average (Bureau of Indian Affairs).

On November 15, 2021, President Biden signed Executive Order 14053 to improve public safety and criminal justice for Native Americans and address the issues of missing or murdered Indigenous people. Through this Executive Order, the Administration pledges to work in collaboration with Tribal communities to support prevention and intervention efforts that will make a meaningful and lasting difference.

The U.S. Department of Justice is committed to addressing the persistent violence endured by Native American families and communities across the country, including by working with Tribal nations to address the missing or murdered Indigenous persons crisis.

OVC offers resources that underscore the scope of this issue and equip victim service providers and allied professionals with tools to help assist relatives of missing or murdered Indigenous persons.

Through the Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside (TVSSA) formula grant program, OVC administers funds to enhance services for victims of crime in Tribal communities. View a fact sheet to learn how Tribes can use their TVSSA funds to help missing or murdered Indigenous persons.

Missing or Murdered Indigenous People: Bringing Loved Ones Home

Grassroots efforts working to increase national awareness and understanding of the missing or murdered indigenous persons crisis are highlighted in this video.

Working together can help bring healing and justice.