Data for Indigenous Justice

We are an Alaska Native and womxn-led non-profit stewarding a database for missing and murdered Indigenous womxn, girls and relatives in Alaska.

Our Vision: Indigenous Peoples thriving in strong, vibrant communities steeped in ancestral power, justice, and love.

Our Mission:

1. Reclamation and Stewardship of Data: We prioritize the decolonization of data by ensuring accurate information about MMIWG2S across all fields, ranging from demographics to truthful case classifications. As there are 229 Federally Recognized Tribes in Alaska, local and specific information is critical and often unavailable from unaccountable state agencies. 

2. Advocacy for Improved Data Systems: We make recommendations to Tribes and state agencies aimed at enhancing data collection, utilization, and reporting tailored to Indigenous peoples. We educate policymakers, law enforcement and other entities on changes that need to be made, and enable Tribal governments to have consistent funds to manage their own justice systems. We have worked on three bills, one is specific to data, and the other two have data components. In 2024, Alaska passed it’s first MMIP bill.

3. Community Building: Any strategy for addressing MMIWG2S will only be sustainable with healing. DIJ is a partner to a working group who collaborates in hosting community healing events such as May 5th National MMIWG2S Day, survivor family vigils, a healing 5k run, and DIJ hosts healing through the arts events.

4. Capacity Building: We prioritize leadership mentoring through our fellowship program. This paid opportunity for two Alaska Native fellows each year provides experience decolonizing data and leading grassroots initiatives.