On Assessing the Scope of Missing Native Americans in Nebraska: Results From a State-Wide Study and Recommendations for Future Research

Tara N. Richards, Emily M. Wright, Alyssa Nystrom, Sheena L. Gilbert, Caralin Branscum

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Recent legislation in multiple states has called for studies on the scope of missing Native American persons. Here we report on one such study from Nebraska by first describing the practical and methodological issues for researchers to consider when examining data on missing Native persons. Then, using data from four point-in-time-counts in 2020, rates of Native American missing persons as well as case contexts over the study period are reported. Findings show that Native Americans are disproportionately represented among Nebraska's missing persons, that reports often involve minor boys, and that cases are dynamic and most are resolved quickly. Relatedly, most Native missing persons cases are only listed on the state clearinghouse, not the national missing persons lists. The paper is concluded with a discussion of specific directions for future research and policy regarding missing Native Americans.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)146-164
Number of pages19
JournalRace and Justice
Volume14
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2024

Keywords

  • Indigenous persons
  • Native Americans
  • missing and murdered
  • missing persons cases

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Anthropology
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Law

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