Event explores plight of Mendocino Countys missing and murdered indigenous people
The Noyo Bida Truth Project will host an event at Mendocino College in Fort Bragg on Saturday, featuring Dr. Tatiana Cantrell, who serves as the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples director for the Pinoleville Pomo Nation. Cantrell will present her insights on mental health services for Native American communities, emphasizing the healing of generational trauma from violence. The organization aims to educate the public about the historical context of the name Fort Bragg, which is associated with Confederate General Braxton Bragg, a slaveowner. Native American communities continue to face a crisis of violence, particularly affecting women and children, though specific data for Mendocino County is limited.
Recent unsolved cases include the disappearance of Wailaki woman Khadijah Britton in 2018 and the drive-by shooting death of Nicole Smith in 2017. Rachel Sloan’s murder in 2013 remains unresolved, highlighting the ongoing issues within these communities. The event is scheduled for 1 p. m. on August 2, 2025, and interested individuals can contact the Noyo Bida Truth Project for further details on the MMIP crisis.
Engaging in this dialogue is crucial for raising awareness and fostering community support.