Susan Hudson, MMIW Since 1492, 2018
Cotton fabric, batting, thread, commercial buttons, leather; 94 x 54 x 1/2″
Image courtesy of the artist. Photograph by Tad Fruits.
Artist Statement:
My MMIW Since 1492 (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Since 1492) is unfortunately a subject the needs to be talked about. There is a horrible epidemic in the Indigenous Communities in Canada, US, Central and South America that most people don’t care or hear about.
Have we as a Society become so disheartened with human life that when our Children go missing, stolen, raped, murdered, and sold into human trafficking that you don’t pay attention or that the only life that matters is your own? Is it the color of our skin? Is it because we are Indigenous? Would you pay attention if we were white, blond hair and blue eyed? Why is it okay to abuse and cage a child but protest when an animal is found abused and caged?
My Ancestors, Grandma and Mother were forced to sew in Boarding Schools, as I was making this quilt they were with me. They helped guide me through every step, from the dreams to the prayers to the Holy People to the last stich. My Grandchildren were also involved in the making of this quilt, it is important for them to know our stories and history. To know what they are fighting for and to know that they are here for a reason, for they will continue to tell the stories.
We need Federal, State, Local and Tribal Leaders that will step up to the plate and lead the people in the right direction. To pass laws to protect our most vulnerable and under represented members. Systematic Racism needs to be abolished, erased and eradicated. Like one of my Elders say: We are as one, no matter what race, color, gender, religion or age we are as one.
To all the Missing and Murdered Missing Indigenous Women and Children you are not Forgotten.