Colorado task force pushes bill for missing indigenous relatives awareness license plates

On February 3, 2025, the Colorado Commission on Uniform State Laws convened to address pressing issues surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous relatives (MMIR) in the state. The meeting highlighted alarming statistics regarding the vulnerability of juvenile females, particularly within Indigenous communities, and emphasized the need for systemic changes to improve safety and support for these populations.

A key speaker from the Colorado Bureau of Investigations reported that juvenile females are the most likely demographic to go missing in Colorado. This data underscores the urgency for state authorities to enhance protective measures and resources aimed at preventing such incidents. The speaker expressed a commitment to prioritizing family support and building collaborative networks with federal and state agencies to address the crisis effectively.

Monica Snowbird, a founding member of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Task Force, presented compelling statistics that reveal the broader implications of violence against Indigenous people. She noted that 52% of MMIR cases tracked in Colorado involve men, prompting a shift in terminology from "missing and murdered Indigenous women" to "missing Indigenous relatives." This change reflects the widespread impact of violence across the community, where four out of five Native individuals experience violence in their lifetime.

Snowbird also discussed the introduction of a new bill aimed at creating awareness through specialized license plates. This initiative is modeled after successful legislation in other states and aims to generate ongoing public consciousness about the MMIR crisis. The funds raised would support various needs, including travel expenses and victim assistance, while also fostering a sense of community engagement.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration and data sharing among agencies to improve the accuracy of reporting and response to MMIR cases. The discussions underscored the importance of recognizing the presence and challenges faced by Indigenous populations in Colorado, particularly in urban and rural areas outside of reservation boundaries.

As the commission moves forward, the focus will remain on enhancing protective measures, increasing public awareness, and ensuring that the voices of Indigenous communities are heard and prioritized in legislative efforts. The anticipated next steps include further discussions on the proposed bill and continued outreach to support families affected by these tragic circumstances.