11-09-2024 9:37am

AG Host Inaugural Meeting of the New Mexico Department of Justice’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Task Force

Chris Edwards Editor

Attorney General Raúl Torrez is hosted the inaugural meeting of the New Mexico Department of Justice’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) Task Force. The meeting was hosted Friday, October 25th, at The Clyde Hotel in Albuquerque, with public comment that began at 11:30 a.m.

“The members of our Task Force bring an incredible depth of experience and commitment to their communities,” said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. “Each individual was thoughtfully chosen to ensure a diverse representation of law enforcement professionals, service providers, and community advocates. As we move forward, we will keep the public informed by posting meeting details, and updates on our dedicated MMIP webpage. I’m grateful to all who have stepped up to participate in this critical effort, as we work together to develop and strengthen solutions to address this issue.”

The NMDOJ’s MMIP Task Force will provide a revamped approach to action on this important issue, involving individuals from the previously established Indian Affairs Department (IAD) Task Force, as well as new members, carefully selected from communities and organizations across the state. The new Task Force allows for a comprehensive collection of the history of this issue, combined with fresh perspectives for action by its new members.

Public comment registration has been promoted through in-person outreach, digital platforms, and via Task Force members, ensuring broad community participation. Those interested in providing public comment can also register online here. Individuals present for public comment should check in upon arrival and will be admitted into the meeting at the start of the public comment portion at 11:30 a.m., following the procedural portion of the meeting.

The first meeting will focus on approving bylaws and establishing meeting guidelines. Members of the public can find more information and as well as a list of Task Force members here.