Actor D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai Honors Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women at Emmys

Actor D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, star of the critically acclaimed FX series “Reservation Dogs,” delivered a poignant message on the 2024 Emmys red carpet. The 22-year-old artist painted a red handprint over his mouth, a gesture symbolizing solidarity with murdered and missing Indigenous women. This powerful statement highlighted the growing MMIW movement that addresses the crisis surrounding Indigenous women whose voices remain unheard.

“It stands for all the missing sisters whose voices are not heard,” Woon-A-Tai expressed, emphasizing the media and law enforcement’s silence in these matters. The red handprint has become an emblem of the MMIW cause, representing the oppression faced by Native women and their perseverance in rising to say #NoMoreStolenSisters.

The FX series “Reservation Dogs,” which follows the journey of four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma dreaming of California, received four Emmy nominations, including one for Outstanding Comedy. The show is celebrated for bringing Native American humor to a broader national audience.

Woon-A-Tai also remarked, “Not a lot of Native actors, creatives, artists get to be on stages like these.” His presence and nominations, including recent recognition at the Critics' Choice Awards, reflect a significant moment for representation in mainstream media. “To be on stage and be representing our people every day, it’s an honor,” he shared.

Disney, the parent company of the network airing “Reservation Dogs,” is also linked to Hulu and this ABC station. Woon-A-Tai’s appearance underscores an important cultural movement, raising awareness for a cause often overlooked.