SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico Legislature has approved a bill to establish a “turquoise” alert system for missing Native American individuals within the state.
The state Senate unanimously passed the rapid response measure on Thursday, sending it to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who has voiced her support.
The legislation addresses the concerning number of disappearances and homicides in Native American communities and aims to expedite the sharing of information by law enforcement regarding missing Native Americans.
The “turquoise alert,” named after the blue-green gemstone, will operate similarly to existing “amber” and “silver” alerts for missing children and elderly individuals. Cellphone alerts will be issued when law enforcement discovers evidence suggesting imminent danger in the disappearance of a Native American person.
Democratic state Sen. Angel Charley of Acoma Pueblo, a co-sponsor of the bill, stated, “I carry with me countless stories of how our system has failed to respond to the disappearance or murder of Native people in our state. We have answered the call.”
According to the New Mexico Department of Indian Affairs, California, Washington, and Colorado have implemented similar alert systems. Arizona lawmakers are also considering implementing their own alert system, spurred by a recent high-profile death that has deeply affected Native American communities.
New Mexico is home to 23 federally recognized tribes, including significant portions of the Navajo Nation and land belonging to the Fort Sill Apache.
The safety and concerns of these communities were a key focus during the 60-day legislative session, which concludes Saturday at noon.
Governor Lujan Grisham signed a bill on Wednesday ensuring students can wear Native American regalia at graduation ceremonies and other school events, promoting free expression related to cultural heritage.
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