Arizona Launches Turquoise Alert System for Missing Indigenous People

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – In a significant step towards addressing the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed into law House Bill 2281, also known as "Emily's Law." This new law creates the Turquoise Alert system, designed to expedite the search for missing and endangered Indigenous individuals. The bill is a direct response to the tragic death of 14-year-old Emily Pike, who was found deceased weeks after disappearing from her group home in Mesa. "This is a crucial step in protecting our Indigenous communities," Governor Hobbs stated in a press release. The Turquoise Alert will operate much like the well-known Amber Alert system, utilizing broadcast media and social media to quickly disseminate information about missing persons, including their description, last known location, and any other relevant details. The swift dissemination of information is critical in these cases, as time is often of the essence in locating missing individuals and bringing them to safety. Emily's Law is a testament to the importance of community involvement and government action in addressing the issue of missing Indigenous people. While the loss of Emily Pike is heartbreaking, her memory serves as a catalyst for positive change, offering a beacon of hope for families who have suffered similar tragedies. The implementation of the Turquoise Alert system represents a significant step forward in protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring that no family has to endure the same pain as the Pike family.