ST. PAUL — Minnesotans can now help fund tips and rewards for cases of missing and murdered Indigenous people with a new license plate.
The new Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives plate features a red handprint, “which symbolizers the historic silencing of the violence that Indigenous people have faced for generations and the dedication to hearing those voices move forward.”
Released on Feb. 14, a day of remembrance when families raise awareness on MMIR in Bemidji, Duluth and Minneapolis, the fees from the plates will be deposited into the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account. Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag translates from Ojibwe to “they will be remembered forever.”
Funds from the reward account will bring awareness to cases, educate the public and prevent future cases. The reward fund board recently developed a policy that will consider rewards for tips that lead to a resolution with MMIR cases through an arrest, conviction or return of the individual.
Available for $15.50, the license plates are customizable and require a $25 annual contribution into the reward account.
“Our missing and murdered Indigenous relatives deserve more than just one day,” said MMIR Office Director Juliet Rudie. “Their cases, as well as their loved ones’ cries for justice, have gone silent for far too long.”
License plates can be ordered through the Department of Public Safety’s website or ordered in person at a local office.