KFRY TV: Concert to raise awareness for MMIW at Minot State
The topic of missing and murdered indigenous women isn't specific to North Dakota, but it does have a strong connection here.
Last summer, the body of Olivia Lone Bear was found in Lake Sakakawea after months of searching.
Savanna Greywind's murder in 2017 prompted North Dakota and U.S. lawmakers to push for better standards during investigations on crimes against indigenous women.
Still, some say the issue is often overlooked.
Next week, the Minot State Concert choir will perform a concert to bring a voice to this issue.
“It's something that would make you think a little bit more, than you would to begin with,” said Minot State Chorale Activities director Emerson Eads.
Sights, sounds, and emotions will come together in ‘Not One Sparrow is Forgotten’ to tell the story of injustices against missing and murdered indigenous women here in North Dakota and across the country.
“People are tired. They're tired of this happening. They're tired of their people disappearing, so that's why we do this,” said Minot State Native American Center Director Annette Mennem.
The performance aims to bring this issue to light by combining music from the Northern Plains, images from Native American culture, and even personal messages from U.S. lawmakers.
This includes one from the Alaskan Senator who reintroduced Savanna's Act to Congress.
“My senator from my home state, Senator Lisa Murkowski, was the one that reintroduced it for Heidi Heitkamp. Then on top of that she was willing to give us a video message to greet everybody,” said Eads.
Using their voices to spread the message of this nationwide epidemic.
The concert will be at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall on April 15 at 7:30 p.m.
There is no cost to attend.
By: Jack Springgate
Source: KFRY TV
