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How a New Law Protects Indigenous Women and Girls From Violence
Legislation in Arizona may provide a template for other states in addressing this epidemic against Indigenous women
Arizona State Sen. Sally Ann Gonzales wore red, as did nearly 50 other crimson-clad Indigenous women, during a ceremony at the State Capitol on August 14. Accompanied by tribal leaders, law enforcement officials, and other legislators, the group looked on as Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey formally signed a bill designed to examine the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, known as MMIW, and violence against Native American women.
The legislative success resulted from a grassroots coalition of Indigenous women dedicated to ending the epidemic of violence against women and girls in Indian Country stretching over three years.
House Bill 2570 establishes a legislative committee to determine how to collect data, devise ways for Arizona’s 22 tribes and the state to prevent such crimes, and to propose means for culturally appropriate victim services. The legislative success resulted from a grassroots coalition of Indigenous women dedicated to ending the epidemic of…
