USA TODAY is investigating racial disparities in missing children cases, in both police investigations and media coverage. The 2002 disappearances of Alexis Patterson and Elizabeth Smart marked the first time the national media paid serious attention to such disparities. Elizabeth Smart is white. She was found nine months after her abduction. Alexis Patterson is Black – and still missing. Twenty years ago, as police worked to locate the two girls, some advocates and experts argued that race was a key factor in how authorities and reporters handled their cases. Swipe through to learn more about the difference between Elizabeth’s and Alexis’ cases. To read the full timeline, click the link in our bio. We need your help investigating cases of missing children of color. You can contact our lead reporter, Gina Barton with tips via her phone or Signal at 262-757-8640.