Who We Are

At Missing Murdered Indigenous People Chahta, we cultivate meaningful connections across our Nation to uplift and empower our Tribal community.

Our approach encompasses prevention awareness, comprehensive training opportunities for law enforcement agencies spanning state, tribal, city, OHP, and BIA jurisdictions, as well as financial assistance(flyers, court, PI and funeral services) tailored to cases meeting our criteria.

We provide safe circles where individuals can embark on a journey of healing and renewal, particularly those seeking refuge from violent circumstances. Through our efforts, we aim to instill hope in the families we support and foster resilience within the broader community we serve.

Our Board

Karrisa Newkirk

President

Karrisa Hodge, a dynamic leader and advocate, serves as the President and Founder of the Missing Murdered Indigenous Women Chahta, dedicated to addressing the urgent issue of violence against Indigenous women.

Jennifer Spainhour

Vice Chair

Jennifer Spainhour, a dedicated Choctaw Nation citizen, currently serves as a Government Recruiter for the Choctaw Nation. Alongside her professional pursuits, she is pursuing a ministry certification at Charis Bible College.

Sarah Hackney

Secretary

Sarah Hackney is a proud member of the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes and holds the esteemed position of Secretary for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Chata. Her dedication to this cause

Chelsea Dean

Treasurer

Chelsea was raised in a single-parent household where she embraced life's challenges with determination. Graduating from Calera High School in 2008, she initially found herself at a crossroads, lacking clear ambition and direction.

Beck Abshire

Board Member

Beck Abshire is a dedicated sustainability major at Arizona State University, deeply committed to advancing climate justice with a heart for making a difference. As a skilled trainer and mentor, Beck brings empathy to her role

Aaron J. Bucy

Board Member

Aaron J. Bucy is an accomplished executive with a diverse background in law enforcement, investigations, and business management. As the Executive Director of the Sherman Symphony Orchestra, he leads initiatives like the Texoma Hero

Crystal Green

Board Member

Crystal Green was born and raised in Durant, OK. Crystal graduated from Southeastern Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. During her college career, Crystal worked at the Campus Police Department

MK Wilhite-Canada

Board Member

MK Wilhite-Canada (Oklahoma Choctaw) is originally from Arkansas. They're currently a student at Southeastern Oklahoma State University to become a Choctaw Language Teacher. MK has been involved with Missing Murdered

Patricia Wood

Board Member

Patricia Wood is a dedicated board member of Missing Murdered Indigenous Women Chahta, channeling her lifelong commitment to justice and advocacy into addressing the urgent issue of MMIW. With a rich history of service