Understanding the Urgent Issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) campaign urgently raises awareness about the disproportionately high number of Indigenous women and girls who go missing or are killed, often without justice. Across North America, countless cases remain unresolved, ignored, or mishandled, exposing systemic failures.
This campaign is a vital call to action, demanding protection for vulnerable Indigenous communities and recognition for every lost life.
Cherish Flood: A Family’s Resilient Search for Truth and Justice
On April 1, 2025, Cherish Flood, a 17-year-old Indigenous girl from Alaska, mysteriously disappeared in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Cherish is 5’04” tall, weighs approximately 115 pounds, and has striking brown eyes and soft brown hair. She was the pride and hope of her family-known for her strength, kindness, and resilience.
The last time Cherish was seen was on a chilly early April day in a busy area of the city. She wore casual, sporty clothes fitting her active lifestyle and friendly personality. Her sudden disappearance shocked her family and community, who immediately began a desperate search and called for help.
Shortly after Cherish went missing, her family closely coordinated with authorities and launched widespread search efforts. Her photo was distributed throughout Sioux Falls, and her story was widely shared on social media. Community gatherings and search parties reflected the unity and determination of Sioux Falls residents to bring Cherish home.
Despite these efforts, no clues have yet surfaced. No one witnessed Cherish leaving the area, and no security cameras captured footage to help locate her. The question “Where is Cherish?” continues to haunt those who love her.
Cherish’s family stresses that she never intended to run away and showed no signs of distress or serious conflict before her disappearance. She is a responsible, caring young woman who cherishes her friends and family, always spreading joy and positivity. Her disappearance is not only a personal tragedy but also a profound loss for the entire community.
Each passing day, her family continues to send messages of love and hope for her safe return. They refuse to accept silence or give up. Their faith burns like an unextinguishable flame, a testament to their unwavering love and determination.
Why Cherish’s Story Demands Attention
Cherish’s disappearance illustrates the relentless struggle Indigenous families face in seeking justice and recognition. Many similar cases receive insufficient media coverage, delaying action and leaving families without closure.
The MMIW campaign is committed to changing this by amplifying voices often overlooked.
How You Can Support the Campaign
Cherish’s story is more than a tragedy; it’s a call to action. You can help by:
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Signing up to volunteer as a flyer distributor to raise awareness through the #ShareYourVoice campaign. Here link: [Volunteer Registration Link]
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Sharing Cherish’s story and related content on social media to extend reach
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Reading and promoting the book TakeNote - Justice for MMIW-a collection of real stories highlighting this crisis
Your involvement can illuminate the path to justice and bring hope to families awaiting answers.
Final Thoughts: Speak Up, Take Action, Make a Difference
Cherish Flood’s story is a painful reminder that behind every missing person is a community demanding justice. The MMIW campaign tirelessly works to ensure no story is forgotten and no voice is silenced.
Let’s stand together to support Cherish and thousands more-share her story, raise your voice, and become a catalyst for change.