Indian Child Welfare Act

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Long title

• An Act to establish standards for the placement of Indian children in foster or adoptive homes, to prevent the breakup of Indian families, and for other purposes.

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The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is a United States federal law that seeks to keep American Indian children with American Indian families. It was enacted in 1978 in response to the alarmingly high number of Indian children being removed from their homes by public and private agencies.

Background

Prior to the enactment of ICWA, large numbers of Native American children were being separated from their families and placed in non-Indian homes, which often led to the loss of their cultural identity. Studies conducted in the 1970s showed that 25% to 35% of all Native children were being removed from their families and placed in foster care, adoptive homes, or institutions.

Provisions

ICWA establishes standards for the placement of Indian children in foster or adoptive homes. It gives tribal governments a strong voice concerning child custody proceedings involving Indian children, by allocating jurisdiction and providing procedural protections.

Jurisdiction

ICWA provides that Indian tribes have jurisdiction over child custody proceedings involving Indian children who reside on or are domiciled within the tribe's reservation. For Indian children not residing on the reservation, the state and the tribe have concurrent jurisdiction, but the tribe can petition to transfer the case to tribal court.

Placement Preferences

ICWA sets forth specific placement preferences for the adoption or foster care of Indian children:

1. A member of the child's extended family
2. Other members of the child's tribe
3. Other Indian families

Impact

Since its enactment, ICWA has been a critical tool in preserving Native American families and culture. It has been the subject of numerous legal challenges and discussions regarding its application and effectiveness.

Criticism and Challenges

Despite its intentions, ICWA has faced criticism and legal challenges. Some argue that it can lead to delays in adoption proceedings and that it may not always serve the best interests of the child. However, supporters argue that it is essential for protecting the rights of Native American children and families.

See also

• Native American Rights Fund
• Bureau of Indian Affairs
• Tribal sovereignty in the United States

References

• Public Law 95-608
• National Indian Child Welfare Association

External links

• National Indian Child Welfare Association
• Bureau of Indian Affairs