who we are
About NICWA
NICWA is the only national membership organization that works to support the safety, health, and spiritual strength of American Indian and Alaska Native children along the broad continuum of their lives. We support tribes in building the capacity to prevent child abuse and neglect through positive systems change at the state, federal, and tribal levels.
News from NICWA
Official Statement from the National Indian Child Welfare Association on Trump Administration Ending the Forced Separation of Children and Families at the Border
(Portland, OR, June 20, 2018)—The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) calls on the Trump Administration...
Latest Policy Update
BIA Issues New Guidance on Criminal Background Checks for Foster Care Placements In May, the Bureau of Indian Affairs...
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Invests in Indian Child Welfare Act Education and Resources
(Portland, OR, June 14, 2018)—The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) acknowledges and thanks the San...
who we are
Heart of ICWA
The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) protects American Indian and Alaska Native kids in child welfare proceedings by keeping them in the care of extended families or tribes whenever possible. ICWA protects identity, familial network, and sense of belonging-things that all children need. In this multi-part digital storytelling series, The Heart of ICWA, families convey firsthand what happens when the basic protections of ICWA are followed and the devastating consequences when families and children are deprived of these basic rights.