May 5th is National Missing and Murdered Women and Girls Awareness Day. Siouxland Public Media’s public affairs show The Exchange shared insight from local leaders, regional advocates, law enforcement, and a cold case involving a member of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska.
The following guests joined hosts Mary Hartnett and Sheila Brummer for a live conversation:
- Trisha Etringer (Cax-Sep-Gu-Wiga), Great Plains Action Society, Ho-Chunk Nation, and member of Sioux City’s Inclusion Advisory Committee.
- Karen Mackey, Great Plains Action Society Board Member, Santee Sioux Tribal Member, Executive Director of the Sioux City Human Rights Commission, and Co-Founder of the Siouxland Pride Alliance.
The Exchange also highlighted the cold case of Terri McCauley. Her body was found in 1983. Her son Nathaniel wants justice and shared his family’s struggle and hope. Siouxland Public Media also talked to a former police sergeant and current investigator on the case.
Special thanks to Teri Kitto from the Santee Health and Wellness Centerfor giving details on events to honor MMIW. The FBI is currently investigating the death of 19-year-old tribal member Ashleigh Wabasha.
The Red Ribbon Skirt Society offers education and support for Missing Murdered Indigenous Women, Children, and Two Spirits. Lily Mendoza started the society in Rapids City, South Dakota, in 2016.
Former FBI Agent Brad Purscellprovided perspective from a law enforcement lens. He retired four years ago after spending most of his 22-year career serving Indian Country. He now lives in Winnebago, Nebraska.