What Is MMIW and Why Does It Matter?
MMIW (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women) is a campaign dedicated to raising awareness and fighting for justice for Indigenous women and girls who have gone missing or been murdered—often without resolution. In the U.S. and Canada, thousands of MMIW cases remain unsolved, overlooked, or inadequately investigated.
More than a movement, MMIW is a call to action-a demand to protect the most vulnerable and ensure every voice is heard.
The Disappearance of Kailah Begaye – A Light Still Missing
On April 16, 2025, Kailah Begaye, a 13-year-old Indigenous girl, went missing in Farmington, New Mexico-a small city in the Four Corners region with a strong Indigenous presence. Kailah is 5'01", weighs 140 pounds, and has brown eyes and brown hair. She was last seen in the evening, wearing a black shirt, black pants, and Adidas shoes near the Dat the Coronado Apartments, a quiet residential area.
What’s deeply troubling is that Kailah vanished without a trace. No one knows how she left the area, whether she was alone, or if she was taken against her will. No clear surveillance footage captured her departure, and no witnesses reported seeing where she went.
Her family describes her as a happy, active girl who loved sports, cared deeply for her loved ones, and had no reason to run away. They were shocked by her sudden disappearance. In the early days, they organized search parties, shared her photo across social media, and posted flyers throughout the city.
Though Farmington isn’t large, the local community came together swiftly. Flyers went up everywhere, local businesses helped circulate her image, and people were urged to check doorbell cameras for any clues. Police followed up on tips, but none led to Kailah. Weeks later, her name appeared less frequently in the media, and the investigation slowed without answers.
Kailah’s absence has left a hole in her home and her community. But her family refuses to give up hope. They believe that one day, Kailah will return-to a place full of love, where her smile is still missed and cherished.
Why Kailah’s Story Matters
Kailah’s case underscores the systemic neglect that Indigenous communities continue to face. Too many similar cases receive little media attention and insufficient investigation. The MMIW movement exists to change this-to make sure every missing Indigenous woman or girl is remembered, and every story is heard.
To better understand what families like Kailah’s endure, the book TakeNote: Justice for MMIW is a powerful and visually compelling resource. It shares real stories, ongoing case information, and the voices of those still seeking justice-designed to inform, move, and mobilize readers.
Share Your Voice: How You Can Help
Kailah’s story is not just one of sorrow-it’s a call to take action. You can be the change that helps bring someone home.
🌟 Sign up today to become a volunteer flyer distributor for the #ShareYourVoice campaign and help raise awareness for Kailah Begaye and others like her.
👉 Join here: [Volunteer Registration Link]
📚 Read and share TakeNote - Justice for MMIW to help amplify the voices of those who can no longer speak for themselves.
Every flyer you hand out is a message of hope. Every post you share lights a path home.
Together, we can make a difference. Raise your voice. Take action. Share Your Voice.
Conclusion
Kailah Begaye is more than a missing girl - she is a symbol of the many Indigenous lives that have been forgotten or overlooked. The MMIW campaign exists to make sure these voices are no longer silenced. It’s about justice, remembrance, and the power of community.
Share her story. Be her voice. Be the change.