TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — An art exhibit this weekend highlights the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) crisis, an issue affecting Native communities locally and across the country.

The event, hosted by Josie Rios, aims to raise awareness and support for this ongoing crisis.

“We are fourth in reported cases of missing and murdered indigenous women,” Rios said. “This is a global crisis. It’s happening here in Tucson. It’s mostly women who are being murdered or kidnapped: our aunts, our grandmothers, our moms, our nieces and our two-spirit relatives are being taken to a drastic pace.”

Rios mentioned that fear and lack of serious attention from law enforcement are the reasons why many cases are overlooked.

“People are afraid to report or are not taken seriously by family members or law enforcement. Because of this, no one wants to continue reporting and abusers are not held accountable. responsible.”

In response, Rios organized an art exhibition featuring 13 local indigenous artists. All proceeds will go to supporting the MMIP movement, helping families cover travel costs, creating flyers, and keeping the issue in the spotlight.

The show will take place Saturday at Espace Coalition on 4th Avenue from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.