My wife's contributions are not acknowledged in our group's paper that has me as coauthor. Should I speak up for her? The background is that my wife and I are in the same lab.
Recently our group did a paper together, and I am an author. However, my wife had contributed to draw a figure to a publication level. Although I am not sure if this contribution is enough to be included as an author, she is not even acknowledged, which I think is not fair.
My wife is not brave enough to speak up and also I have a better relationship with the group leader. Should I speak up for her, by saying something like &quot;she contributed to draw a figure, and should at least be acknowledged&quot;? What will be the best approach and wording? In person or message/email?
I am asking this question as I am not sure if this type of thing is appropriate. For example, I may not really know someone else that draw some figures but not being acknowledged. I happen to know just because she is my wife.

Update: I just talked. It turns out my group leader just forgot to acknowledge her.
I think you should talk to the group leader about the appropriateness of an acknowledgment  for the drawing (not coauthorship).
This is the right course of action for any contributor. The fact that she's your wife is not relevant, and should not be a part of this professional conversation.
How to approach the group leader depends on how you usually interact. I think a short conversation is probably appropriate. You could follow up with an email for the record if that seems appropriate.
Of course the group leader probably knows about your relationship, but that should not affect the decision.