WHAT: ICWA Context, Controversy and Current Trends
WHEN: Friday, January 30th, 2009, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
WHERE: 2200 Wells Fargo Center, 90 South Seventh Street, Minneapolis, MN
WHY: "There is no resource that is more vital to the continued existence and integrity of Indian tribes than their children . . ." The ICWA Law Center is a non-profit American Indian legal services organization committed to providing
the highest quality of legal representation to Indian families involved in child protection proceedings implicating the Indian Child Welfare Act. The creation of the ICWA Law Center in 1993 was a concerted response to end violations of the ICWA and to strengthen Indian families and the community.
WHAT IS THE ICWA?
Congress enacted the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) in 1978 in response to the unwarranted removal of Indian children from their families and tribal communities in alarming numbers. Congress recognized that "the wholesale separation of Indian children from their families is perhaps the most tragic and destructive aspect of American Indian life today." H.R. Rep. 95-13896, at 9 (1978). The passage of the ICWA is premised on the fundamental connection between Indian children, their families and their tribes. The ICWA grants particular substantive and procedural rights to Indian families and Tribes in child custody cases. The ICWA impacts adoptions, foster care, children in need of protection or services, and terminations of parental rights of Indian children.
PURPOSE OF ICWA TRAINING
The purpose of the training is to promote knowledge and awareness of the significance for Indian children and their families of the mandates and congressional intent of the ICWA through historical and cultural perspectives.
TARGET AUDIENCE
Those interested in the implications of the ICWA on juvenile court or family court proceedings, including child protection, truancies, status offenses, third party custody, orders for protection and adoption.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS
Application has been made for six hours of continuing legal and social work education credits. Information about the number of credits actually approved by the various agencies will be provided at the training.
REGISTRATION FEE
Early registration prior to January 23: $100
Public defender/non-profit legal services attorneys: $50
After January 23 and same-day registration: $125
Public defender/non-profit legal services attorneys: $75
"NO SHOW" AND CANCELLATION POLICY AND FEE
The registration fee is non-refundable upon cancellation or no show.
TRAINING CONTENT QUESTIONS
Shannon Smith
Executive Director, ICWA Law Center
Phone: 612.879.9165 x 206
Martha Fast Horse
Board of Directors, ICWA Law Center
Phone: 612.619.6797