Families gather at University of Montana for Indigenous awareness day event

MONTANA — Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day brought families, advocates and community members together at a campus event focused on remembrance and awareness.

At the UM University Center, loved ones of Indigenous missing and murdered victims shared stories and honored the people they lost. The event was organized by the Montana Department of Corrections.

The gathering included the “Empty Place at the Table” exhibit. Each place setting represented a life lost and the lasting impact left behind.

Families said the exhibit stood for more than a display. They said it reflected the people they continued to fight for each day.

Carissa Heavy-Runner said being present and speaking up can help other families keep going.

“And, I feel like even speaking at events that a lot of other families told me that they have hope now that it is possible and you just don't give up. And things, little things do matter. They, create ripples, they get bigger. And so I even tell people you're here today that matters. It's helping wearing a red t shirt, attending an event. And, especially for encouraging other families to speak about their loved one because it has to come from them,” said Carissa Heavy-Runner.

Valenda Underwood said the event carried deep meaning because it reflected the absence families feel at important moments.

“I think this event is really important to me. It symbolizes that empty plate at a dinner table. especially, like during holidays and everything. Like when you know, the entire family is supposed to come together. It represents that empty place in the empty feeling. Everybody feels in their heart when they wish that their loved one could be there with them,” said Valenda Underwood.

Organizers said the event was meant to honor those who were lost while also building awareness and pushing for change. Families at the gathering said listening, learning and sharing these stories mattered.