In focus: New police patch unveiled during missing or murdered Indigenous persons solidarity event at Toledo Middle School

A missing or murdered Indigenous persons (MMIP) solidarity event was held at Toledo Middle School on Sunday, May 5. T

he Toledo Police Department unveiled a custom patch to recognize missing and murdered Indigenous people (MMIP) across the country, with officials hoping the first-in-the-country patch will inspire other departments to take a similar step.

The event coincided with MMIP National Awareness Day, held annually on May 5, and included testimonials and tributes to the disproportionate rate that Indigenous tribes face abuse, and the challenges families often face when seeking justice.

A descendent of the Colville Tribe and Fort Peck Assiniboine, Toledo Police Chief Duane Garvais Lawrence praised former Mayor Steve Dobosh, current Mayor Cheri Devore and former city council member Kelly Thomas for their work in securing the patch.

The Chronicle will have additional coverage of the ceremony in the Thursday’s edition.