In recognition of the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples on May 5, several virtual events will be taking place aimed at increasing awareness around the growing epidemic.
Members of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, including Sexual Assault Prevention Subcommittee Chair Amber Kanazbah Crotty, are expected to take part in the following events:
May 5: Our Women, Our Relatives: New Mexico’s Call to Action (MMIWR Task Force);
May 5: MMDR Awareness: Understanding the Trials Navajo Families Face;
May 5: Office for Victims of Crime Webinar: Bringing our Missing Home: The Power of Science, Hope, and Community;
Additionally, an awareness walk will take place at the Navajo Nation Council Chamber in Window Rock, Ariz. and will end at the Tséhootsooí Middle School in Fort Defiance, Ariz. beginning at 3:30 pm on May 5. A candlelight vigil will follow at the middle school parking lot.
The awareness walk will be a socially distanced event and will follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance for coronavirus prevention and safety.
The awareness walk will commemorate the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Native Women, Girls and 2 Spirit peoples. The event is being organized by the family of Laverda “Verge” Guy Sorrel who has been missing from the Window Rock area.
