Addressing the Crisis of Missing and Murdered African American Women and Girls
I n 2020, according to The Guardian, Wisconsin had the highest homicide victimization rate for African American women and girls in the nation, a rate that doubled from the previous year. Ad- ditionally, the National Crime Information Center reports that 34% of the 268,884 missing women and girls in 2020 were African American. In a significant move to address the crisis-level disparities of missing and murdered African American women in our state, Representative Shelia Stubbs intro- duced legislation to establish a Task Force on Missing and Murdered African American Women in Wisconsin in the Department of Justice. Representative Stubbs continually emphasizes the urgency of protecting Black women and girls within the community from a heightened threat of violence, stressing the imperative for change. She underscores the need for proactive measures to address the root causes behind these distressing trends and provide resources to victims and their families. The proposed Task Force aims to delve into the underlying factors contributing to violence against African American women, seeking tan- gible and effective solutions through a dedicated investigative approach. Recognizing that systemic challenges demand comprehensive responses, Rep. Stubbs highlights the importance of collective action across institutions to foster a safer environment for Black women and girls. By engaging legislators, law enforcement, criminal justice and legal experts, community advocates, and family members impacted by this issue, the Task Force intends to pave the way for groundbreaking policies that prioritize the well-being of all missing people and victim families, es- pecially those belonging to marginalized communities. The Task Force represents a pivotal step towards creating a more secure and inclusive Wisconsin for Black women, children, and families alike, underscoring the transformative potential of collabora- tive efforts and policy implementation in shaping a brighter future for all.
sheliastubbsforassembly@gmail.com | 17
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