VNN receives $30k to create MMIWG2T reporting project for Indigenous journalists

(TULSA, Okla.) Verified News Network (VNN) is accepting applications to take part in a new reporting project focused on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit and Transgender People (MMIWG2T). 

The MMIWG2T Historical Reporting Project seeks to demonstrate the connection between historical injustice and missing and murder cases today through a new dedicated series of 15-20 news stories. Indigenous journalists selected for the program will receive one week of in-person historical investigation training, paid travel and accommodation, and a $2,000 stipend.

VNN Community Engagement and Cultural Coordinator Trista Vaughn (UKB Citizen, Hualapai, and Chickasaw) is leading the project. 

“Taking the lead on the MMIWG2T Historical Reporting Project is about stepping into something bigger than ourselves,” Vaughn said. “It’s about uncovering stories that have been buried for too long and shining a light on the connections between our history and the challenges we face today.” 

This $30k project is supported by the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Fund for Indigenous Journalists: Reporting on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit and Transgender People (MMIWG2T). 

Veteran Journalist Tara Gatewood (Citizen of the Pueblo of Isleta & Diné) is the IWMF Director of the Fund for Indigenous Journalists: Reporting on MMIWG2T. 

She said the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People is an injustice that has created many obstacles for Indigenous Nations, as well as compromised the health and potential of Indigenous communities both on sovereign land and in urban settings

"It has impacted our communities for many generations, dating back to the beginning of colonization, and today continues to create hardships for the lives of many strong Indigenous people," Gatewood said. "This issue and the different paths that lead to it are often misunderstood and underreported in the media. This funding opportunity is set up for Indigenous journalists to focus in on the stories of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit and Transgender people. It’s also a chance to help turn the tide and create better media outcomes for more in-depth and Indigenous-led reporting."

Project participants will also receive dedicated training on the online Indian Rights Association collection, made possible through Tulsa City-County Library thanks to a donation by VNN Oklahoma and its collaborators. The collection, which contains significant court documents, legislative proposals, newspaper clippings, photographs, and handwritten personal correspondence, has already proved instrumental in uncovering new information about historic MMIWG2T injustice. 

Related story: Investigation reveals dark depths of Indigenous probate crime coverup

Vaughn said investigating historical injustice against Native people isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. 

“Honoring our ancestors, uplifting our communities, and making sure the truth is told in a way that inspires real change,” Vaughn said. “This project is a chance to do just that and to make a lasting impact through the power of storytelling.”

For more information and to apply, visit https://forms.gle/iRuihtsuK8Zf7Ufm6