It is time to move our community from Silence to Action! No more stolen sisters! No more violence against women!

Funds raised will support efforts such as:

Travel for those who provide testimony on behalf of survivors, families who have had members go missing, and others directly impacted by MMIP+
Healing events for individuals and communities impacted by MMIP+
Awareness events in the community, such as Silence to Action
Disseminating information related to finding MMIP+ relatives

According to alarming statistics from the U.S. Department of Justice, Indigenous women in certain tribal communities face murder rates that are 10 times the national average. The Urban Indian Health Institute's study has also highlighted California as having the 6th highest death rate of Indigenous women in urban areas. These staggering figures underscore the urgent need for concerted action and collaborative efforts.

Historical traumas, coupled with challenges such as denied sovereignty on tribal territories and disparities in health, housing, food security, and child welfare, further exacerbate this crisis.

"This discussion will serve as a catalyst for change," said Sonya Tetnowski, CEO of the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley (IHC), about the Silence to Action panel discussion hosted on May 24, 2024, at San Jose City Hall the first of its kind for San Jose, CA.

"By fostering collaboration among community leaders and policymakers, we aim to create lasting solutions that will ensure a world where all people, especially Indigenous women, girls, and 2-Spirit relatives, are free from harm and violence."

Sonya is a key advocate on the frontlines of the MMIP movement. She is a Makah tribal citizen, a mother, a grandmother, a veteran paratrooper for the US Army, and a trailblazer. Deb Haaland and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco of the Biden Administration named her to the Not Invisible Commission. During her tenure at IHC, she has dedicated herself to serving the community locally and nationally. Her amazing story and empowering work for and about American Indians and Alaskan Natives (AI/AN) is a testament that a woman can thrive and succeed in multiple roles while supporting and uplifting other women.

With the support of many indigenous advocates, agencies, and allies in the South San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, IHC is working to move the local community from Silence to Action. You can help by educating yourself and your community about this crisis by visiting the IHC MMIP+ Awareness Page.

Please consider donating to support this incredible work today!

MMIP+ Emergency Fund

No More Stolen Sisters! No More Disappearing of Indigenous People!

Team Members