The MMIR (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives) (external link crisis, initially referred to as the MMIW (Women) crisis, is a national crime pattern of disproportionate murder and missing cases of Indigenous peoples in the US that has been ongoing for centuries. The crisis is a result of many forces, one being the failure of the US to protect Indigenous relatives, paired with the lack of resources for Tribes to provide justice and victim services.
In a remarkable initiative led by the Native American House, the spirit of creativity and awareness converged to spotlight the pressing crisis of violence against Indigenous Peoples. For two inspiring weeks, Chicago-based Native artist Angel Starr (Arikara, Omaha, and Odawa) led participants through a journey of identity and remembrance. The focus of this unique residency was the creation of traditional red regalia, a symbolic expression of creativity and remembrance. Under Angel's guidance, participants crafted beautiful red ribbon skirts and shirts. Each piece is embedded with cultural significance and personal touch from the hands that brought their pieces into existence.
These garments will be on display in the Laubin Gallery of American Indian Cultures from May 10 to December 1.