MMIWG2S Alaska Working Group Hosts Successful 2024 5K Run for Healing, Run for Justice Event!
Photo by Jeff Chen with Native Movement
Written by Autumn Cantu, MMIWG2S Communications Coordinator & Graphic Designer at Native Movement.
August 10, 2024
On August 10, 2024, the MMIWG2S Alaska Working Group held its annual 5K Run for Healing, Run for Justice event, drawing nearly 400 participants in a profound demonstration of community solidarity and support. The event, organized to honor Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and Two-Spirits (MMIWG2S), created a sacred space for healing and advocacy, and reflecting on the collective efforts of Indigenous organizations in Alaska who are taking actions to end the MMIP crisis and create healing opportunities for our communities and families.
The MMIWG2S Alaska Working Group, comprising the Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center (AKNWRC), Alaska Native Justice Center (ANJC), Alaska Native Heritage Center (ANHC), Data for Indigenous Justice (DIJ), and Native Movement (NM), organized this gathering to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) crisis affecting Alaska and beyond. The 5K Run for Healing, Run for Justice serves as both a tribute to the victims and a call to action for continued advocacy and awareness.
The event was marked by an impressive turnout, with close to 400 attendees, including families, advocates, and community members. Participants came together in a shared space of healing, underscoring the event's mission to foster unity and support for those affected by the MMIP crisis. The day was filled with heartfelt moments and meaningful interactions, as the community engaged in activities designed to promote healing and raise awareness. The strong presence of supporters was not only heartwarming but also invigorating reinforcing our commitment to this vital cause.
Acknowledgement and Appreciation!
The MMIWG2S Alaska Working Group extends a heartfelt thank you to the sponsors and supporters who made the event possible.
Welcome Native Spirit
Alaska Conservation Foundation
Goldbelt
Afognak
Skinny Raven
Their support played a crucial role in the event's success and underscored their dedication to addressing the MMIP crisis. A special mention goes to Aka's Food Truck for providing delicious treats and to the Mobilization Center's Rural & Indigenous Outreach Team for their invaluable presence. A special thank you and so much gratitude to our very loved elder Liz Sonnyboy for giving our blessing and thank you so each and everyone of our volunteers! Their contributions helped to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. Additionally, the working group is deeply grateful to everyone who participated in the sign-making event. This collaborative effort helped to amplify the voices of those advocating for justice and healing.
The success of this year's event highlights the ongoing need for community involvement and actions to end the MMIP crisis. The MMIWG2S Alaska Working Group remains committed to this essential work, with the unwavering support of partners, sponsors, and community members who share in the mission to honor and advocate for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Thank you to everyone who joined us, contributed to our efforts, and supported our mission. Together, we are making strides toward justice and healing for our community.
