Third Annual Red Dress Pow Wow Highlights Missing and Murdered Relatives

Reno, NV, March 29, 2024 – Great Basin Indigenous Women Rising proudly presented its Third Annual Red Dress Pow Wow on March 29th, 2024, in Reno, NV. This gathering shined a spotlight on the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, girls, relatives, and Two-Spirits. The event, which attracted attendees nationwide, featured various activities and discussions focused on raising awareness and fostering solidarity within Indigenous communities.

Brian Wadsworth, Financial Director for Native Public and a Nevada tribal member, hosted an informative booth dedicated to the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) rulemaking on the proposed Missing and Endangered Persons (MEP) Event Code.

"The Annual Red Dress Pow Wow is a poignant reminder of the importance of unity and action play in confronting the challenges faced by Indigenous communities. It provides a platform for education, networking, and healing, empowering attendees to stand in solidarity with those affected by the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP). Sharing the news about the MEP Event Code and the importance of letting the FCC know they are doing the right thing was important," states Wadsworth.

Following the FCC meeting on March 14, 2024, where the commission unanimously voted to propose rules for the MEP Event Code, anticipation surged among tribal members. This standardized protocol promises to streamline the process of issuing alerts for missing and endangered adults. The proposed MEP Event Code rules were published in the Federal Register, kicking off the public comment period.

During the event, Wadsworth engaged with attendees from various states, including Nevada, California, New Mexico, Arizona, and New York. Native Public Media is prioritizing public outreach about the MEP Event Code.

"Participants shared personal stories, highlighting the devastating impact of missing or murdered loved ones. One woman shared her daughter's courageous escape from abduction. Many others underscored the enduring pain and loss experienced when missing family members are never located or murdered. An Amber Alert for adults gives us all hope, but tribal citizens need to let the FCC know the MEP Event Code is critical to saving lives," concludes Wadsworth.

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The public is welcome to comment on the FCC's proposed rules for the Missing and Endangered Persons Event Code. Comments regarding the MEP Event Code can be filed electronically by accessing the ECFS: https://apps.fcc.gov/​ecfs/​.

Public Comments Due: May 20, 2024

Public Reply Comments Due: June 17, 2024 

Featured Image: Artwork Created by Sana Sana. Jingle Dancer: Buhawiyipa