During a recent San Antonio City Council meeting, representatives from the American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions (AITSCM) gathered to commemorate the National Week of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP). This year marks the 30th anniversary of AITSCM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the ongoing crisis affecting Indigenous communities.

Council member Jalen McKee-Rodriguez opened the session by highlighting the alarming statistics surrounding violence against Indigenous women, who face murder rates three times higher than their white counterparts. He emphasized the need for solidarity against this violence, which is rooted in historical colonization and continues to impact Native peoples today.

Ramon D. Vasquez, a member of the Te Pilamcoetican Nation, spoke passionately about the significance of the MMIWP initiative, which aims to raise awareness and advocate for justice for Indigenous individuals. He noted that Texas is home to over 800,000 Native people, yet only one other organization in the state focuses specifically on MMIWP issues. This lack of resources underscores the urgent need for more support and awareness.

Maya Sotto, the community engagement coordinator for AITSCM, expressed gratitude for the council's attention to this critical issue. She announced the upcoming Week of Action from May 5 to May 9, which aims to bring public awareness to the epidemic of violence against Indigenous people. Sotto stressed that this issue transcends cultural boundaries, framing it as a community safety and racial equity concern that affects all residents.

The meeting also highlighted the case of Sarah Isabel Martinez, a 17-year-old girl missing since December 2022, underscoring the real-life implications of the MMIWP crisis. AITSCM aims to support families like hers, who often face significant challenges in seeking justice and resources.

In conclusion, the council's recognition of the MMIWP week serves as a vital first step in acknowledging the struggles faced by Indigenous communities in San Antonio. The discussions at the meeting reflect a broader commitment to addressing violence and advocating for the safety and rights of all residents, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.