Image Source: Arlyssa D. Becenti/The Republic
In 2016, 11-year-old Ashlynne Mike was abducted and murdered near Shiprock, New Mexico, a tragedy that exposed major flaws in emergency response systems across tribal lands—most notably the absence of an Amber Alert system on the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the U.S. At the time, jurisdictional challenges prevented quick alerts, which may have delayed potentially life-saving efforts.
Her murder led to the Ashlynne Mike Amber Alert in Indian Country Act of 2018, which allowed federally recognized tribes to access funding and training to implement Amber Alert systems compatible with state and national networks. Her mother, Pamela Foster, emerged as a leading advocate, not only pushing for this legislation but also challenging the Navajo Nation’s longstanding opposition to the death penalty, arguing it should be reconsidered in cases of extreme violence.
This year, on the ninth anniversary of Ashlynne’s death, her father, Gary Mike, revived the Ashlynne Mike Memorial Mile Walk, which had been paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. The return of the walk was partly inspired by the recent murder of 13-year-old Emily Pike, another Native girl whose death highlighted ongoing dangers faced by Indigenous children. The event provided a platform for families to honor lost loved ones, connect to resources, and advocate for change.
Broader issues addressed during the event include the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), lack of infrastructure in tribal law enforcement, and social stigmas that have historically silenced families of missing persons. Navajo leaders like Council Delegate Amber Crotty emphasized how Ashlynne’s death forced these conversations into public view and helped catalyze real progress, including access to Amber Alert training through national programs.
The memorial walk also spotlighted other families’ stories, including those still seeking justice or searching for missing loved ones. Participants held signs and wore red shirts bearing victims’ faces, sharing grief, solidarity, and hope.
Moving forward, tribal leaders and advocates are pushing for:
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Wider implementation of Amber Alert systems across all tribal communities.
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Improved coordination between tribal, state, and federal law enforcement.
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Expanded training for emergency response.
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Continued public awareness events to support grieving families and drive policy changes.
As the 10th anniversary approaches in 2026, Ashlynne Mike’s legacy continues to shape legislation, advocacy, and grassroots efforts aimed at protecting Native children and addressing the systemic neglect that contributed to her death.
Learn more: https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2025/05/08/ashlynne-mikes-death-helped-bring-amber-alerts-to-tribal-communities/83453380007/
