The Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives (MMDR) Task Force was established by the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee to address the alarming crisis of violence, murder, and missing persons affecting Diné people. Focused on advocacy, healing, and justice, the task force employs a holistic approach that includes data-driven initiatives, community engagement, and the development of vital programs like victim services. Through partnerships across tribal, state, and federal levels, the MMDR Task Force seeks to create solutions and pathways for justice and safety, honoring and protecting the Diné community.
Missing and Murder Diné Relative Task Force Livestream
Click here to join the next MMDR Task Force public meeting on Thursdays.
Learn more about the task force and their efforts to bring resources to the community.
Priorities of the Missing and Murder Diné Relative Task Force
- Data and Community Knowledge
The MMDR Task Force is collaborating with Navajo Technical University to build the nation’s first data institute to collect and preserve community knowledge and survivor stories. This institute will help us understand the scope of the crisis and develop effective, culturally informed solutions. - Family Support and Advocacy
The task force is dedicated to supporting families through programs that offer victim services, advocacy, and resources. We hold forums to engage the community, educate the public, and ensure families have the tools they need. - Holistic Approaches to Justice
The task force takes a comprehensive approach to prevention and justice. By working with various branches of the Navajo Nation, health organizations, and law enforcement, we aim to address intergenerational trauma, strengthen safety nets, and seek justice for our loved ones.
Goals of the Missing and Murder Diné Relative Task Force
- Build a Data Institute
Collect and maintain information on missing and murdered Diné relatives to foster healing and develop actionable solutions. - Support Families
Provide direct advocacy, resources, and victim services to families in need. - Enhance Community Engagement
Engage with families and communities through forums, education campaigns, and partnerships to spread awareness. - Advocate for Policy Changes
Collaborate with leaders and lawmakers to address systemic barriers and secure sustainable funding and resources.
Missing Person Toolkit by the Missing and Murder Diné Relatives Coalition
Never feel alone when filling a missing person case, especially for your loved ones, child or friend.
Download the Missing Person Toolkit for resources and guidance when filing a missing person’s case.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Using the Missing Persons Community Action Toolkit
Understand the Toolkit’s Purpose
The Missing Person Community Action Toolkit’s purpose is to aid families in locating missing relatives, coordinating with law enforcement, mobilizing search efforts, and improving communication among involved parties.
Start with Preliminary Steps
- Gather information about the missing individual (e.g., name, physical description, last known location, etc.).
- Contact local agencies like jails, hospitals, and shelters to check for the individual.
Filing a Missing Person Report
- Collect all required documentation, including personal details, recent photos, and information on the last interaction.
- Determine the jurisdiction (tribal, state, or local law enforcement) and file the report accordingly.
Create a Missing Persons Poster
Mobilize the Community
Utilize Logs for Communication and Documentation
- Maintain a Contact Log for individuals and agencies involved in the search.
- Use the Communication Log to record all interactions and updates.
Follow Safety and Self-Care Tips
Access Resources
- Refer to the appendix for tools like the jurisdiction map, AMBER Alert guidelines, and tips for media relations.
Resources and Tools for Families of Missing Loved Ones
Navajo Nation Division of Behavioral and Mental Health Services
Navajo Nation Police Department
Navajo Nation Division for Children and Family Services
Battered Families Services Inc.
Missing and Murdered Diné Relative Coalition
Victim Witness Services for Northern Arizona
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual & Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence Help, Programs and Statistics
New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Navajo Nation Sex Offender Registry
Domestic Violence Help, Programs and Statistics
Operation Rainbow Bridge
Non-profits, and departments part of the task force
State resources for families
Explore NamUs: The National Resource for Missing and Unidentified Persons Cases
The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) is a comprehensive, federally-funded program dedicated to resolving missing, unidentified, and unclaimed persons cases across the United States. Managed by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), NamUs serves as a critical resource for law enforcement, forensic professionals, and families searching for their loved ones.
What is NamUs?
NamUs is the nation’s only centralized, secure database for missing and unidentified persons cases. This powerful tool facilitates collaboration among law enforcement, medical examiners, coroners, forensic experts, and the public. By improving access to critical information and leveraging cutting-edge forensic technologies, NamUs bridges gaps in communication and data sharing that often hinder case resolutions.
Since its establishment in 2007, NamUs has assisted in resolving over 46,600 cases, with more than 10,300 identifications achieved through DNA, fingerprints, dental records, and advanced genetic technologies.
Key Features and Services
NamUs offers a range of free resources and services, making it an invaluable asset for investigating and solving cases:
Forensic Services
- DNA analysis, including advanced genetic genealogy.
- Fingerprint examination and forensic anthropology.
- Odontology and tattoo image enhancement.
- Forensic artistry and composite sketches.
Investigative and Analytical Support
- Multidisciplinary case reviews by experts in law enforcement, forensic science, and medicolegal investigation.
- Database crossmatching and geospatial searches to identify connections between cases.
- Support for tribal, juvenile, and sexually motivated homicide cases.
Secure and Unified Database
- Houses over 54,000 cases, enabling detailed searches for missing, unidentified, and unclaimed persons.
- Public users can participate by adding or updating case details to aid investigations.
Training and Outreach
- Free training programs for criminal justice professionals and families.
- Nationwide collaboration with organizations such as the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and tribal communities.
How to Use the NamUs Website
Navigating the NamUs platform is straightforward:
- Create a Profile: Both public and professional users can register for free.
- Search Cases: Utilize advanced filters to search for missing or unidentified persons by geographic region, physical characteristics, or case status.
- Submit a Case: Law enforcement, medical examiners, and families can upload case details for investigation.
- Access Resources: Explore forensic services, request case reviews, or find training opportunities
The Importance of NamUs
NamUs is more than a database—it’s a vital tool in reuniting families and resolving cases that have long remained unsolved. By offering advanced forensic technology, robust investigative support, and a secure platform for data sharing, NamUs empowers communities to find answers and bring closure.
For more information or to access NamUs services, visit the official website
Office of Medical Examiner (OME)
This section provides essential information about the medical examiners serving Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado. Medical examiners play a critical role in helping families of Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives (MMDR) by investigating and identifying remains, determining causes of death, and ensuring that justice can be pursued. Their work combines medical expertise with compassionate care to provide families with answers and closure while supporting broader efforts to address the MMDR crisis. This section is designed to educate and guide families through the processes involved, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between communities and medical professionals.
Arizona Medical Examiners
New Mexico Medical Examiners
Utah Medical Examiners
Colorado Medical Examiners
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC): A Vital Resource for Child Protection
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding children from abduction, abuse, and exploitation. Established in 1984, NCMEC serves as a comprehensive resource for families, law enforcement, and child welfare professionals across the United States.
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: Protecting Kids, Restoring Hope
Join the mission to safeguard children and support families in need. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) is a vital resource for preventing child abduction, combatting exploitation, and reuniting families. Explore the tools, programs, and success stories that are making a difference in communities across the nation.
Visit NCMEC’s Impact Page to learn more about their transformative work and how you can contribute to creating a safer future for all children. Stay informed, share resources, and be part of the solution today!
