OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA — A Del City family in Oklahoma has finally received justice nearly three years after two of their loved ones were murdered. This case sheds light on the alarming issue of missing and murdered Indigenous people in the state. Oklahoma has one of the highest numbers of missing and murdered Indigenous people cases in the country, as highlighted in a 2018 report. According to the report, Oklahoma City is among the top ten cities with the highest number of missing and murdered Indigenous women cases that were not in law enforcement records.
The family members wore red to court, symbolizing support for the missing and murdered Indigenous women movement. The case brought awareness to the alarming statistics regarding violence and murder of Indigenous women, with federal data showing that Indigenous women experience some of the highest rates of violence and murder. The MMIW group stated that this case is a significant step in bringing attention to these issues.
The perpetrator, Devonta Williams, received a life sentence without the possibility of parole for each of his murder charges. President of the MMIW Eastern Oklahoma Chapter, Abbie Harjochee, stated that while justice has been served, the family still feels heartbroken, but they are optimistic about bringing justice to the victims. She also emphasized the need for more awareness of the statistics on domestic violence against Native women, men, and children. The family’s tragic experience has highlighted the importance of legislative efforts to address violence against Native Americans, such as The Not Invisible Act, which became law in 2020 with the goal of improving coordination between agencies dealing with violence against Native Americans in Oklahoma.
The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people and the collective efforts needed to address the issue. It underscores the need for continued advocacy and legislative action to protect and bring justice to Indigenous communities facing disproportionate rates of violence and murder.