Black & Missing Foundation Inc. is a nonprofit organization established by a veteran law enforcement official and public relations specialist, whose mission is to bring awareness to missing persons of color; provide vital resources and tools to missing person’s families and friends; and to provide educational training on personal safety.
Black & Missing Foundation offers a free clearinghouse, which highlights profiles and information on missing persons of color, nationally. Profiles of missing individuals, throughout the nation, as well as news, information, and tips, can be found at the organization’s website: www.blackandmissinginc.com/cdad.
Rolling out spoke with Natalie Wilson, co-founder and director of public relations for Black & Missing Foundation Inc.
Why is your organization needed for black children?
The BAM is needed for all missing persons of color not just black children. Forty percent of all missing persons are of color, and I really don’t think are community knows this or understands this because we normally do not see ourselves in the news media when someone goes missing. We work very closely with law enforcement and it’s so important for us to bring awareness. Many times our children are classified as runaways. And when you are classified as a runaway you do not get the amber alert, you do not get the same resources or any type of media coverage at all. These children need to be found because they could have been caught or lured into sex trafficking.
Do black children get the same amount of coverage as white children?
They do not. There is a disparity in coverage in missing people of color, and that is why this organization was created.
What should parents do as soon as they figure out their child is missing?
A parent should call 911 immediately. There is a common misconception that you must wait 24-48 hours; this is absolutely not true. Please — if your loved one is missing — call 911, call friends and family and just canvas the neighborhood; act immediately. Work with law enforcement. A detective is assigned to the case and should contact the media. But it [also] important to have an up-to-date photo of your loved one.
What role do sex traffickers play in the role of children being taken?
With sex trafficking, because many children are now on Facebook and social media. Sex traffickers are very savvy and utilize these media sources also to trap kids.
What role do strip clubs and nightclubs play in missing women cases?
Most people believe that people who are sex trafficked are prostitutes. That is simply not true, they can be in strip clubs, nail salons, and they can be working at a number of places that you may visit. So it’s not just prostitution; it can be in a strip club, and that is a billion-dollar industry.
What do teenage girls need to know if they are planning to run away?
We want girls to understand that sometimes that the danger you leave at home is nothing compared to what is on the street. I have heard pimps say that once a girl gets desperate and hungry, they will do whatever it takes. And once you get into that lifestyle, it’s so hard to get out. Find someone you can talk to like a teacher or counselor because running away is not the answer.
What are the top three reason children will end up on your database?
Parental abductions
Runaways
Abduction
Who is preying on children of color?
There is a rise in homelessness, so children in shelters are easily preyed upon. And this predator has gotten them comfortable.
When did you find out about Relisha Rudd and what was your reaction? What has BAM done so far in regard to her case?
We were contacted by the D.C. metro police. We have assisted in searches in the park and we are heartbroken; we just want to bring Relisha home. We believe that someone must know something. We will hold on to hope that she is still alive. As a mother, I have to wonder why Ms. Young let her daughter go with this man. The mother did not report her missing for a long time. You have to be careful who you let interact with your childre.n
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