FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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CSVANW Reacts to News of New Mexico Governor establishing advisory council to implement Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons State Response Plan

Albuquerque, N.M.— Today, Tiffany Jiron, Policy & Advocacy Director for the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW), issued the following statement in reaction to a recent announcement by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety (DPS) & Governor Michelle Luján Grisham on the establishment of an advisory council to implement Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) State Response Plan:

“The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) acknowledges the important steps taken to advance the implementation of the New Mexico State Response Plan for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP). We commend Governor Janelle Roybal from the Pueblo of Pojoaque and Governor Craig Quanchello from the Pueblo of Picuris for their outstanding leadership and dedication in spearheading efforts to address this critical issue that has deeply affected Indigenous communities. We trust that Governor Roybal and Governor Quanchello will continue to lead this initiative with unwavering strength and a deep love for Native people.

“The progress made thus far is attributed to the knowledge, dedication, and collaboration of the MMIWR Task Force members. Their invaluable insights have contributed significantly to the development and execution of the state response plan. CSVANW appreciates the commitment shown by all those involved in this vital work.

“CSVANW recognizes that combating violence requires more than just addressing immediate crises; it necessitates a holistic approach to healing, education, and narrative shifts. CSVANW knows how crucial it is to have survivors and impacted families at the decision-making tables as they are experts of their own heart-wrenching lived experiences. We hope to see that survivors and impacted families remain included as part of the advisory council to continue their work they have started while serving as MMIWR Task Force members. It remains crucial to include MMIWR Task Force members in an advisory capacity to sustain the momentum and ensure that the plan’s recommendations are effectively implemented. The spirit of reciprocity and collaboration must continue to guide our efforts as we work to strengthen relationships and rebuild trust within our communities.

“Our dedication to ending violence against Native women and uplifting their voices embodies the resilience and determination of Indigenous peoples.”

For further information or media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

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CSVANW is an award winning organization at the forefront to a dynamic approach to the tribal domestic and sexual violence fields that is demonstrating the most effective, creative and innovative ways to address and prevent the cycle of violence within tribal communities.