Missoula Gathers to Address Montana's MMIP Crisis

Advocates and community leaders met in Missoula to discuss the disproportionate rate of missing Indigenous people in Montana.

Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Native American

Missoula Gathers to Address Montana's MMIP Crisis

Advocates and community leaders gathered in Missoula on Monday, November 9, 2026, to discuss Montana's crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people (MMIP). Indigenous people account for 31% of the state's missing-person cases despite making up 6% of its population.

Why it matters

The gap between Indigenous representation in missing-person cases and in the overall population highlights a disparity that affects families and communities across Montana. Advocates are pressing for greater attention to cases that have historically received less public focus.

Indigenous people account for 31% of Montana's missing-person cases while making up 6% of the state's population. Total case counts and the underlying reasons for the disparity were not detailed at the gathering.

The players

Carissa Heavy Runner

Heavy Runner is a Montana advocate who founded "Mikah Matters" after her daughter was killed in a hit-and-run.

Chloe Zuraff

Zuraff is a Montana Department of Corrections employee whose work has examined disproportionate incarceration and gaps in culturally responsive support.

The details

Carissa Heavy Runner was pushed into activism after her 22-year-old daughter, Mikah, was killed in a hit-and-run. Heavy Runner and her family created "Mikah Matters" and organized a four-day awareness walk from Arlee to Polson. Chloe Zuraff's work at the Montana Department of Corrections has shown disproportionate incarceration and gaps in culturally responsive support.

Monday, November 9, 2026: Advocates and community leaders gather in Missoula to discuss MMIP.

Season Trajectory

The MMIP discussion in Missoula takes place as Montana voters elected 14 Native American state legislators in a record election. Advocacy on missing and murdered Indigenous people is occurring alongside expanding Indigenous political representation in the state.

Residents of Missoula and across Montana may find these discussions relevant to community safety and family support resources. Families with missing relatives can seek assistance through local advocacy networks represented at the gathering.

The takeaway

Community attention to missing-person cases can help ensure all families receive timely searches and support. Staying informed about local advocacy efforts is one way residents can contribute.