Governor signs bill to provide 'turquoise alert' when Native Americans go missing

ABC News - Apr 8th, 2025

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed a new law establishing a 'turquoise alert' system to help locate missing Native Americans. The legislation, which garnered significant support from lawmakers, aims to address the high number of disappearances and killings within Native American communities in the state. This alert system will operate similarly to existing 'amber' and 'silver' alerts, using cellphone notifications to rapidly disseminate information when a Native American is reported missing and believed to be in imminent danger. The initiative represents a significant policy achievement and a victory for Native American families who have been impacted by violence. Tiffany Jiron, executive director of the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women, emphasized the importance of this legislation in correcting the historic neglect of Native women and girls' cases.

The 'turquoise alert' is part of a broader movement across several states to provide better protection for Indigenous people. Similar alert systems already exist in California, Washington, and Colorado, with Arizona lawmakers considering their own version following the tragic death of Emily Pike, a San Carlos Apache teenager. New Mexico is home to 23 federally recognized tribes, including significant portions of the Navajo Nation and the Fort Sill Apache. The safety and concerns of these communities were a focal point during the state's 60-day legislative session, highlighting the urgency and necessity of enhanced protective measures for Native American populations.

Legislation New Mexico Native Americans Michelle Lujan Grisham Turquoise Alert Tiffany Jiron Coalition To Stop Violence Against Native Women Indian Country Emily Pike

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The news story provides a timely and accurate account of New Mexico's legislative efforts to create a 'Turquoise Alert' system for missing Native Americans. It effectively highlights the significance of this development for Native American communities, drawing on credible sources and offering a clear narrative. While the article is generally well-balanced and engaging, it could benefit from a broader range of perspectives and more detailed background information to enhance its depth and transparency. Overall, the story succeeds in raising awareness of an important public interest issue and has the potential to influence public opinion and policy discussions.

Accuracy

The story is factually accurate, with key claims verified by reliable sources. The signing of the 'Turquoise Alert' legislation by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is confirmed by multiple reputable outlets. The story accurately describes the alert system's purpose and function, aligning with similar systems in other states like California, Washington, and Colorado. The mention of Arizona considering a similar system is also supported by additional sources. However, the story could benefit from more direct citations or links to official statements or legislative records to further enhance its accuracy.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view by highlighting the legislative achievement and its significance for Native American communities. It includes perspectives from Tiffany Jiron, providing a voice from the affected community. However, the story could be more balanced by including potential criticisms or concerns from other stakeholders, such as law enforcement or policymakers, regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the alert system. This would provide a more comprehensive view of the issue.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information. It effectively explains the purpose and significance of the 'Turquoise Alert' system. The language is neutral and accessible, making it easy for readers to comprehend the main points. However, the story could benefit from additional context or background information on the issue of missing Native Americans to enhance reader understanding.

Source quality

The story relies on credible sources, including statements from Tiffany Jiron and references to the New Mexico Department of Indian Affairs. However, it lacks direct attribution to specific legislative documents or official statements from the governor's office. Including a broader range of sources, such as law enforcement agencies or independent experts on Native American issues, would enhance the credibility and depth of the reporting.

Transparency

The article provides some context about the 'Turquoise Alert' system and its importance, but it lacks detailed explanations of how the information was gathered or the methodology behind the alert system's development. The story could improve transparency by disclosing potential conflicts of interest or biases, such as the perspectives of those who might oppose the legislation. Additionally, more explicit references to the sources of information would help readers understand the basis for the claims made.