Assembly adopts resolution designating May as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People awareness month; members call for action

The California State Assembly on April 28 adopted ACR 163, designating May as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People awareness month and prompting a broad floor discussion about systemic gaps in reporting, investigation and services.

"We continue to work hard on these issues," Assemblymember Ramos said in presenting the resolution, urging action beyond awareness events and calling for task forces to address geographic hot spots, resource shortages and historical harms.

Members from multiple caucuses described hearings, data shortfalls and personal community impact. "When the law fails to protect you and the media fails to see you, the message is loud and clear," Assemblymember Gonzalez said, characterizing jurisdictional and investigative gaps. Assemblymember Rogers relayed data from one tribe, noting "79 current open cases for missing family members" and urged sustained investment and coordinated data sharing.

Speakers highlighted disproportionate rates of violence, foster‑care pipelines, underreporting, and the need for tribal‑led investigations and long‑term funding rather than one‑time grants. The Jewish, LGBTQ, Black, Latino and Asian and Pacific Islander caucuses each spoke in support, and the resolution passed by voice vote after dozens of co‑authors were recorded.

What the resolution does: ACR 163 formally recognizes MMIP awareness month in California and signals legislative support for further policy and resource efforts; it does not itself appropriate funds or change statutes.

Next steps cited by members included proposals for improved data collection, funding for tribal‑led investigations, and incorporation of MMIP priorities in budget discussions.