In this blog post:
- New MN license plate released
- The design and its meaning
- MMIR Office’s mission
- Purchase the license plate
Big Spirit Inc. is very proud to be a part of a powerful collaboration aimed at raising awareness and funds for a crucial cause. We have designed a new license plate for the Minnesota Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office. This initiative not only contributes to the ongoing fight for justice but also pays tribute to the Indigenous communities that these tragedies have disproportionately affected.
The Design of the License Plate
The red handprint featured in the MMIR logo, shown on the license plate, serves as a poignant symbol, representing the fight against injustice faced by Indigenous people in Minnesota. Shockingly, a 2023 Bureau of Criminal Apprehension report revealed that 8.7 percent of all people reported missing to the National Criminal Information Center were Indigenous, despite Indigenous individuals comprising just 1 percent of Minnesota’s population.
This vivid red handprint also stands as a tribute to the historic silencing of Indigenous voices, emphasizing the commitment to amplify and recognize these voices. The plate further incorporates a ribbon skirt adorned with colors sacred to Indigenous cultures, symbolizing unity, strength, and resilience.
The Mission of MMIR Office
The MMIR Office plays a vital role in supporting Indigenous victims, survivors, and their families by providing access to culturally responsive healing resources. Additionally, the office collaborates with law enforcement at various levels to help solve crimes and bring justice to those missing their loved ones.
Raising Funds for the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account
The newly designed license plate, available for purchase through the Driver and Vehicle Services division, reflects Indigenous cultures in Minnesota. Priced at $15.50, the plate allows drivers to customize it according to their preferences while requiring a minimum $25 annual contribution to the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account.
Named in Ojibwe, the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account translates to “They will be remembered forever,” capturing the essence of a program dedicated to preserving the memories of missing relatives or reuniting them with their families.
The reward account plays a pivotal role in supporting community-led searches, acquiring search equipment, conducting media outreach, funding prevention programs, and other vital activities.
The reward account’s advisory council carefully considers the allocation of funds, including rewards for tips leading to an arrest or conviction in legal cases involving missing Indigenous persons or the safe return of the missing individual.
Your Opportunity to Make a Difference
To stand in solidarity with the MMIR Office and contribute to their mission, you can order these special license plates online or find a local office for in-person purchases at drive.mn.gov. Together, let’s drive change, honor the memories of the missing, and build a future where justice prevails for all Indigenous communities.
The design of the MMIR logo and the state license plate were produced by Big Spirit Inc., which offers a full array of marketing, graphic design, and communications strategy services.