Ashanti Alert “Missing Person” System Launched

NORFOLK
The family of Ashanti Billie, along with activist Michael J. Muhammad, recently brought attention to the rollout of the national Ashanti Alert program, marking a significant advancement in enhancing the safety of our communities.

The announcement follows a groundbreaking vote by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on June 27, 2024, to establish a new Emergency Alert System (EAS) code specifically for “Missing and Endangered Persons” (MEP).

The Ashanti Alert program is named in memory of Ashanti Billie, a young woman whose tragic disappearance in 2017 exposed critical gaps in existing alert systems, particularly for individuals aged 18 to 65.

In collaboration with her parents, Meltony Billie and Brandy Billie-Moore, along with activists Michael J. Muhammad and Kimberly Wimbish, extensive training was recently conducted by the Director of the Bureau of Justice Services, Mr. Karhlton F. Moore.

During this training, Muhammad highlighted the historical significance of the Ashanti Alert Act, stating, “It should be historically mentioned that on December 31, 2018, at 6 PM, Donald Trump, President of the United States, signed into law the Ashanti Alert Act of 2018. Six hours later, on January 1, 2019, we recognized the 400 years since our Black ancestors were taken from the shores of Ghana. Now, 400 years later, we have established the system by which missing people must be sought after.”

Brandy Billie-Moore expressed her heartfelt gratitude, noting, “Ashanti is a guiding angel, and we are forever thankful that she came this way.” This sentiment underscores the profound impact of the Ashanti Alert program, serving as a beacon of hope for families and communities grappling with the fear of losing their loved ones.

The FCC’s establishment of the MEP code represents a critical advancement in community safety by allowing local authorities to disseminate vital information regarding missing and endangered persons.

This addition complements existing Amber and Silver Alert systems, as stated by the FCC: “Today we move forward with establishing a ‘Missing and Endangered Persons’ alert code to close this gap. This will help ensure no person who is missing, at risk of being overlooked and in danger is left behind. With this new code, we can save lives.”

The Ashanti Alert program aims to foster a more coordinated response to missing persons cases,  especially within tribal communities that have disproportionately faced violence and abductions.

Through the collaborative efforts of local police, the Department of Justice, and the FCC, this initiative lays the foundation for an integrated approach to tackling the national crisis of missing minorities, ensuring effective communication during emergencies.