California tribes demand action on missing and murdered indigenous people crisis

The Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs convened on May 7, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people (MMIP) in California. The meeting featured testimonies from various tribal leaders, emphasizing the urgent need for action and systemic change.

The session began with a focus on historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities, particularly the legacy of violence and forced removal. Chairperson Cheyenne Stone of the Big Pine Paiute Tribe shared a poignant account of the forced march of Paiute people in 1863, highlighting the ongoing impact of these historical traumas on contemporary Indigenous lives. Stone underscored that the crisis of MMIP is not merely a statistic but a continuation of a legacy of elimination and injustice that leaves Indigenous individuals vulnerable to violence and disappearance.

Stone also addressed recent archaeological findings during a Caltrans highway expansion project, where human remains and cultural artifacts were discovered. This incident raised concerns about the lack of adequate tribal consultation and the need for stronger protections for Indigenous ancestral lands. The testimony called for California to implement decisive actions, including dedicated funding for forensic laboratories, legally mandated tribal consultations for infrastructure projects, and culturally informed victim services.

Assembly member James Ramos, the first Native American elected to the California legislature, was recognized for his advocacy in promoting visibility for Indigenous rights and MMIP policy reform. His leadership was seen as pivotal in shifting the conversation towards actionable solutions, although it was noted that substantial budget appropriations are necessary to empower tribes effectively.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for California's leadership to respond with urgency and respect to the MMIP crisis. Tribal leaders urged community members to engage with elected officials and advocate for justice, emphasizing that the fight for recognition and protection of Indigenous lives must be a collective effort. The testimonies served as a powerful reminder of the resilience of Indigenous communities and the need for systemic change to honor their history and protect their future.