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Operation Spirit Return: A New Hope for Justice

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Operation Spirit Return aims to address the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people in the United States. Collaborating with forensic lab Othram, the initiative seeks to leverage advanced DNA technology to resolve cold cases, bringing renewed hope to families affected by these tragedies. The case of Aubrey Dameron exemplifies the urgent need for action. With legislative support and community awareness growing, initiatives like Operation Spirit Return highlight the potential for justice and closure for Indigenous communities.

Operation Spirit Return: A New Hope for Resolving Missing and Murdered Indigenous Cases

Across the United States, the heart-wrenching issue of missing and murdered Indigenous people is finally catching the attention it desperately needs. Operation Spirit Return is an initiative that aims to shine a light on these cases, specifically those of American Indians and Alaska Natives. With the collaborative efforts of a Texas-based accredited forensic laboratory, Othram, and the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, there’s a renewed hope to resolve these long-standing mysteries.

Advanced Forensics Stepping In

Othram specializes in transforming DNA evidence into new human identities. This high-tech forensic work includes analyzing samples from either unidentified remains or crime scenes that have gone cold over time. Michael Vogen, Othram’s Director of Case Management, explains how the lab can search through DNA data to generate fresh investigative leads, potentially opening doors to cases that have long been gathering dust.

Imagine being able to revisit cold cases—some of which have no current leads—because of advancements in technology! The ability to utilize available DNA evidence can be a game changer for communities who have suffered from the impact of these unresolved tragedies.

A Case in Point: The Tragic Story of Aubrey Dameron

Among the many stories, the case of Aubrey Dameron stands out as a stark reminder of the violence faced by Indigenous and LGBTQ+ individuals. A cherished member of the Cherokee Nation, Dameron was a Two-Spirit woman who disappeared back on March 9, 2019. Tragically, her remains were discovered six long years later. Dameron’s case is currently under investigation, with foul play suspected, but the quest for justice remains ongoing.

This investigation has prompted a collaborative effort involving various agencies, including the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the FBI. Local officials, including the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, are extending their condolences and support to families affected by similar cases. The ongoing search for the truth reflects a broader issue that has plagued Indigenous communities for far too long.

Staggering Statistics Demand Attention

In 2016 alone, there were more than 5,000 reports of missing or murdered Indigenous women and girls. Shockingly, only about 2% of those cases were documented by the National Missing and Unidentified Person System. Moreover, Oklahoma currently has the third-highest number of missing Indigenous people in the United States with 329 reported cases, totaling at least 875 missing Indigenous persons across the nation. Many of these cases remain unresolved, which only amplifies the urgency for initiatives like Operation Spirit Return.

Policy Changes on the Horizon

Legislative efforts are also taking shape with the introduction of measures such as the Not Invisible Act and Savanna’s Act, both aimed at improving data collection and addressing the crucial issues surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous people. Not to be overlooked, a proposed increase in funding for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the fiscal year 2025 House Interior Appropriations Bill highlights a commitment to enhancing public safety and justice initiatives.

Awareness is critical in addressing this ongoing crisis. Tribal officials and communities are leveraging social media to raise voices and seek justice for those who have gone missing or have been murdered. The combined efforts of communities, law enforcement, and advanced forensic technology paint a hopeful picture moving forward.

In conclusion, Operation Spirit Return is paving the way for justice and resolution for families who have long endured the burdens of unanswered questions. As we introduce more technology and foster collaboration among agencies, we inch closer to solving these heartbreaking cases and offering families the answers they deserve.

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