A federal task force created to improve investigations of missing and murdered indigenous people on Mar. 2 announced a series of listening sessions and consultations, including one in Billings.
The Presidential Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives was directed to consult with tribal governments on the scope and nature of disproportionately high rates of violence against indigenous people.
It will host a consultation with tribal leaders in Billings on July 7.
The Trump Administration launched the task force, also called Operation Lady Justice, late last year with the mandate to review Indian Country cold cases, strengthen law enforcement protocols and work with tribes to improve investigations, information sharing and a more seamless response to missing persons investigations.
The task force is expected to present a progress report to the president in November, with a final report detailing its activities and accomplishments November 2021.