On November 21, 2024, the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations convened an oversight hearing to investigate the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). The session featured testimonies from various stakeholders, including tribal leaders and community advocates, who highlighted systemic failures in law enforcement and the judicial system affecting Indigenous communities.

The meeting began with a focus on the need for increased resources and training for law enforcement to better serve urban Indigenous populations. A representative from the Pawnee Nation emphasized that treaty and trust responsibilities do not cease when individuals leave their reservations, underscoring the importance of accountability and representation for urban Indians.

Testimonies revealed alarming instances of violence and inadequate responses from law enforcement. One speaker recounted a recent murder case on their reservation, expressing frustration over the lack of accountability for the perpetrator and the failure of federal and tribal courts to address such serious crimes effectively. The speaker criticized the tribal court system as weak, noting difficulties in jury selection and the limited time for holding offenders accountable, particularly in cases of domestic violence and murder.

Another participant shared personal experiences of loss and the challenges faced by families seeking justice. They called for stronger tribal governance and judicial systems, advocating for more funding but also emphasizing the need for proper management and accountability to ensure that resources are used effectively.

The discussion also touched on the broader context of tribal sovereignty and the interconnectedness of various issues facing Indigenous communities, including health care and natural resources. A representative from the Wabanaki Confederacy highlighted historical injustices related to land settlements in Maine, which continue to impact their ability to address the MMIW crisis.

Committee members expressed appreciation for the testimonies and acknowledged the complexity of the issues at hand. They noted the critical need for increased funding and support for law enforcement, with current federal funding levels falling significantly short of what is necessary to address the crisis effectively.

The hearing concluded with a commitment to further explore solutions and ensure that the voices of Indigenous communities are heard in the ongoing efforts to combat the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. The committee plans to follow up on the discussions and consider actionable steps to improve the situation.