Multiple organizations collaborate on MMIP Walk to raise awareness
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News from the Journey to Wellness Program
PABLO — Imagine what a family faces when someone they love goes missing. Each person in their circle is forever impacted by the loss. For some, the unknown last for years and even decades. In other cases, an answer comes with the heartbreaking resolution of locating a body. For years, tribal citizens and grass roots organizations have been aware of the high number of missing or murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. In the last few years, the rest of the world has become better informed about this crisis. Efforts have been made to bring about improved reporting procedures, the development of better systems for supporting families, and increased training options for law enforcement and responders. Progress has been achieved but there is always more that can be done.
Raising community awareness and promoting individual engagement in prevention are two important actions. To support this effort, a collaboration of partners from across the Flathead Reservation, along with the Rising Hearts-Running for Justice Initiative, will be hosting a 5K Walk/Run at Salish Kootenai College, in Pablo, Montana, on May 6, in conjunction with the designation of May 5 as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. This is one of the Rising Hearts “Running for Justice” walk/runs taking place across the nation and being supported by them with online registration and promotions. Rising Hearts is an indigenous led grassroots organization committed to the heart work in elevating voices, and supporting efforts for social, climate, and economic justice. Reflecting the spirit of the day, it is being called the Step By Step...We Remember Walk/Run.
“The devastation of a family member missing directly effects everyone in that person’s circle for the rest of their life,” said Erin Rumelhart, the Head of Nursing at Providence St. Josephs in Polson, Montana. Rumelhart is a member of the leadership team for the event. In Montana, more than 25% of those missing are Native American, while the statewide Native American population is only 7%. On the Flathead Reservation, several individuals have been missing for years, including Jermain Charlo, whose case has been spotlighted in podcasts and national newscasts.
“Efforts have been made to help with this national problem, including the creation of a Montana statewide task force and an online reporting system, but support and awareness events such as this are so important to our own communities,” explained Ellie Bundy, a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Council. She has been an active member of the task force, serving as its chair and helping develop training options for communities.
“We have been able to bring together a group representing agencies from across the community to coordinate this event which is open to everyone,” said Ashlynn Marasco, the Project Director for the Journey to Wellness. “Everyone is so passionate about this issue, and we look forward to having an amazing day for walkers and runners of all ages.” The event will bring the community together to remember those who are missing, while promoting community awareness.
“Connecting people of all ages, around such an important challenge recognizes the loss to the community and builds hope for the future,” said Dr. Nikki McKinsey, of Providence St. Josephs. Special presenters and music will also be part of the day, along with vendors and resource providers. Anyone interested in sharing information about their services or to be a volunteer that day can go to https://www.journeytomentalwellness.org, TAKE ACTION tab to sign up for free. Sponsorships are also available on the same page. “I think of it as a chance for social interaction and building unity,” said Marasco. “You should get together some friends or family and come take a stroll.” At this time, those signed on to co-host the gathering include Providence St. Joseph Medical Center, the Journey to Wellness, Salish Kootenai College, SAFE Harbor, SKC Center for Prevention and Wellness, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Anderson Broadcasting. Sponsorships options are available. Proceeds will be donated to the Rising Hearts Fund and to the CSKT’s Victim Services Assistance Fund, created to help support families with costs related to search efforts.
“This is for the community, and we want everyone to turn out,” said Rumelhart “Don’t be intimidated...the route is inclusive, whether runner, walker or with a disability. Join us for a time to gather, to remember and to support one another.” Activities will kick off with an opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m. and the walk/run starting at 10:30 a.m. Participants can register in advance by going to the Rising Hearts website, www.rising.hearts.org. Donations are welcome for registration but are not required. People will also be able to register on the day of the event. To find out more about the event contact Ashlynn at 406-275-4051 or at ashlynn_fish@skc.edu.
