Lansing, Michigan – The top law enforcement agency in Michigan has started a wide-ranging criminal investigation into the history of Native American boarding schools and other similar facilities that used to operate in the state. Attorney General Dana Nessel said the move was part of a larger attempt to find out if Native children who were sent to these facilities were victims of crimes.
The Department of Attorney General will be in charge of the investigation. Its goal is to find, document, and examine claims of abuse, neglect, or other illegal behavior that may have happened at the schools. Officials said that the work will cover not only boarding schools, but also other Michigan institutions that use similar methods.
State investigators are now asking the public for help in making a clearer record of what happened. People who survived, family members, witnesses, and anybody else who knows what happened at these facilities are being asked to come forward. Sharing information could assist set up timeframes, find possible victims, and figure out if there is enough evidence to file criminal charges.
Nessel said that the investigation was a crucial step in facing a very bad time in Michigan’s history. She said the purpose is to make the truth public, recognize the damage done to Native communities, and hold people accountable wherever possible. Her office said that the investigation would focus on hearing to survivors and taking their stories seriously.
The attorney general made it clear that any proof of illegal activity will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. The department says it will follow every credible lead and keep historical records that could otherwise be lost, even though time may make things harder.
People who think they have information that could help the investigation can email or call the Department of Attorney General at 517-897-7391. You may send in tips without giving your name. The department’s Native Boarding School Investigation webpage has further information on the investigation, including support for survivors.