Gabby Petito’s Mom, Stepmom in Oregon Work Together to Advocate for Victims’ Rights
Gabby Petito's Family Joins Forces with Black and Missing Foundation to Advocate for All Missing Persons
On September 18, 2024, at the National Crime Victim Bar Association Conference in Portland, Oregon, Gabby Petito’s mother and stepmother joined Derrica Wilson, co-founder and CEO of the Black and Missing Foundation (BAMFI), for a powerful panel discussion. The session focused on the urgent need to bring attention to all missing persons, regardless of race, background, or circumstance.
Gabby's tragic story captured national headlines, but it also highlighted a critical disparity: many missing persons of color do not receive the same level of media attention or public urgency. This panel addressed that imbalance, emphasizing the importance of inclusive advocacy. The collaboration between the Gabby Petito Foundation and BAMFI represents a unified front in the fight to find missing individuals and support the families left behind.
A key topic of discussion was the connection between domestic violence and missing persons cases. Many disappearances are directly linked to abusive relationships, making it vital to address domestic violence as both a personal safety issue and a public crisis. By sharing Gabby’s story alongside countless others, the panel underscored how raising awareness about domestic violence can be a preventative measure against future missing persons cases.
The partnership with BAMFI is more than symbolic; it’s a strategic alliance aimed at expanding the reach and effectiveness of advocacy efforts. BAMFI’s expertise in addressing the unique challenges faced by missing persons of color, combined with the Gabby Petito Foundation's platform, creates a more comprehensive support network. Together, they aim to push for systemic changes in how cases are reported, investigated, and covered by the media.
Collaboration across organizations is key to meaningful change. By working together, sharing resources, and amplifying diverse voices, we can create a future where every missing person matters, every family is supported, and every case receives the attention it deserves.
