By Shawn Dick, Tulalip News
Many of us have a fear of speaking in front of crowds. My heart felt the pull to speak of my wife’s sister Tiffany Granquist. I spoke of how she was taken at the age of 11 by her father. Giving her a voice and bringing awareness to the families all over Indian country who tragically have had to deal with the same kind of loss.
Tulalip tribal member and activist, Sarah Hart, brought together community members, leaders, and cultural representatives to honor Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People while calling for justice, healing, and unity. A crowd of over 200 took part in the family jam at the Greg Williams gym on Saturday, May 2. The event highlighted both the urgency of the crisis and the strength of Indigenous communities.
The gathering also carried significant meaning for Hart, who has been deeply involved in campaigning for the cause. “The reason I do this work is to bring awareness and justice for those that have no voice,” she shared. “This event is about bringing everyone together for peace and solidarity and letting our families know we love and support them.”
In a meaningful gesture, the family of Mary Ellen Davis honored Hart by selecting her to serve as their family representative, recognizing her dedication to advocacy and her commitment to standing alongside families navigating loss and seeking justice.
Josh ”Jee-Leets-Kynum” Fryberg delivered a message centered on unity and responsibility, reminding those present of the importance of standing together for families impacted by MMIW/MMIP. “We want to send the healing the best way that we can for all our families, give recognition and remember all of our loved ones,” he said.
The jam featured drummers from Tulalip, Nooksack, Lummi, Muckleshoot, and a visiting group from Canada, whose songs created a powerful atmosphere. A particularly emotional moment came during Antone George’s performance of his MMIW song, which captured both grief and resilience. His voice resonated deeply, offering a tribute to those who are missing and to the families who continue to search, remember, and advocate.
Dancers also played an important role, bringing movement and meaning to the event. Miss Nooksack, Louanne Roberts, shared her perspective on participating in MMIW awareness efforts. “It helps those who came for healing,” she said. “I dance for my relatives that have gotten lost due to MMIW.”
Pictures of those lost and taken were displayed, symbolizing the lives of those who are missing and the voices that are no longer heard. Attendees showed their support in a variety of ways, some carrying photos, others offering prayers, and many standing in quiet reflection.
The MMIW/MMIP crisis continues to impact Indigenous communities across the nation and beyond. Through leadership, cultural expression, and shared voices, events like this reinforce the importance of awareness, remembrance, and action.