On April 14, 2024, the Tacoma community gathered at Ruston Spraypark for a poignant vigil to honor the memory of Cole Brings Plenty. This event, led locally by Roxanne White of MMIWP Families and supported by the Puyallup Water Warriors and Native Daily Network, brought together families, activists, and community members in a unified act of solidarity with Cole’s family.
Cole Brings Plenty, a cherished member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, was celebrated for his vibrant spirit, his contributions as an actor, and his academic pursuits at Haskell University. His love for dance, singing, and making people laugh was a beacon of joy for all who knew him. Deeply valuing his heritage, Cole lived a life dedicated to good intentions towards everyone, embodying the rich traditions and values of his people. His untimely loss has profoundly impacted the community, bringing to light the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people. This vigil in Tacoma, part of a nationwide movement, responded to a call from Cole’s family to honor his memory and raise awareness about the systemic issues affecting Indigenous communities across the United States and Canada.
Joe Brings Plenty Sr., Cole’s father, recently paid tribute to his son, reflecting on the joy he brought to others. “He loved to dance, sing, joke, and make people laugh. He loved his heritage, his way of life, his people,” Joe wrote. “Now my baby boy is gone. He doesn’t deserve this. We found my son, now we have to find out what happened and hold people responsible.”
Roxanne White, who leads MMIWP Families in Washington, facilitated the Tacoma event, calling on all nations, co-conspirators, and allies to join in prayer and solidarity. Participants were encouraged to bring drums, rattles, and wear ribbon prayer skirts and regalia, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere that resonated with cultural significance and communal support.
The event, lasting from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, featured several speakers who shared their stories and shed light on the personal and collective impact of this ongoing tragedy. The gathering was not only a moment to mourn but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and foster healing. Throughout the vigil, great emphasis was placed on respectful remembrance and the power of coming together to support families directly affected by MMIWP.
The vigil at Ruston Spraypark underscored the vital role of grassroots organizations like MMIWP Families in raising awareness and driving action to address these critical issues. It was one of many held across the country on that day, demonstrating a robust national act of solidarity with Cole’s family.
As the event concluded, the sense of solidarity was palpable. The community’s commitment to continuing the fight against the disappearance and murder of Indigenous people was reaffirmed, with new friends promising ongoing support and advocacy.
For more information or to support this cause, please contact Roxanne White at roxanne@mmiwpfamilies.org.
