On February 2, 2009, eleven women ranging from thirteen to thirty-two years old, of Hispanic and Indigenous descent, were exhumed from a ninety-two acre plot of undeveloped land in Albuquerque’s West Mesa. The remains of these women were buried between 2001-2005. Investigations led to the discovery of six additional women, also Hispanic and Indigenous, who were reported missing within the same timeframe and are believed to be connected to the case. The remains or whereabouts of the six additional women have yet to be uncovered. Many family members made missing person reports that were left unanswered for five or more years until the bodies were exhumed that February day. After only two years of investigation, the case was considered cold and inconclusive. No persons have been identified as positive suspects in the murders or kidnappings of these women. For the families who lost daughters, sisters, grandchildren, nieces, cousins - the longing continues for answers to be exhumed, awareness to be exhumed, honor to be exhumed, and healing to be exhumed.

Sixteen women were invited by the artist to participate in this installation by loaning a personal effect that held sentimental value and that would provide an absence upon being loaned. These items were buried in a pile of sand and remained on display as an artifact within the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago for a three month long exhibition.

A message from the artist to participants: During these three months, I ask that when the moment of longing should arise, to hold a collective response of hope, a transcendence of hope for the families of these women. As you wish for the return of your personal effects, hold space for the return of answers and the return of peace for all missing and murdered women.