New Framework on Missing and Murdered Native Americans Strengthen Individuals at Risk

This ACF framework advances priorities set by President Trump’s Executive Order on Establishing the Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives

October 27, 2020

Today, HHS’ Administration for Children and Families (ACF) released the framework on Missing and Murdered Native Americans (MMNA) containing guidance for supporting and strengthening Tribal and Native American communities whose citizens are at risk for going missing or being murdered. The framework focuses on improving the wellbeing of Native populations and communities through a wide range of ACF programs and technical assistance resources. The primary intent is to move ACF resources upstream to promote prevention, intervene for those in crisis, and support individuals, families, and communities in need of healing. This ACF framework supports broader Department of Health and Human Services efforts on this critical issue.

“The Framework on MMNA is a next step in solidifying President Trump’s commitment to Native communities nationwide,” said Assistant Secretary Lynn Johnson. “We must continue to support our vulnerable and high-risk populations, and through this framework, ACF will work with Native American communities to enhance prevention and human services efforts.”

In November 2019, President Trump signed the Executive Order on Establishing the Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives, called Operation Lady Justice .

According to a report by the Department of Justice, Native American women and men continue to have the highest rates of victimization, with 84.3 percent of women and 81.6 percent of men experiencing violence in their lifetime.

“This is not just a Native American crisis – this is an American crisis. Our people are hurting, and we need all Americans to be informed, to be involved, and to be part of the solution,” said Commissioner Jeannie Hovland of ACF’s Administration for Native Americans, who is a member of the task force, and is committed to advancing justice and resolution for Native Americans nationwide.

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Quotes

“The Framework on MMNA is a next step in solidifying President Trump’s commitment to Native communities nationwide.”
— Lynn Johnson, HHS' Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Children and Families
“We must continue to support our vulnerable and high-risk populations, and through this framework, ACF will work with Native American communities to enhance preventions and human services efforts.”
— Lynn Johnson, HHS' Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Children and Families
“This is not just a Native American crisis – this is an American crisis. Our people are hurting, and we need all Americans to be informed, to be involved, and to be part of the solution.”
— Jeannie Hovland, Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans

Contact

Administration for Children & Families
Office of Communications
330 C Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20201

Phone: (202) 401-9215
Fax: (202) 205-9688
Email: media@acf.hhs.gov