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
NICWA Celebrates April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Media Contactmedia@nicwa.org(Portland, Ore., April 1, 2023)—The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA)...
MEDIA ADVISORY: Seminole Tribe of Florida and Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Provide Host Sponsorships of NICWA Conference
Media Contactmedia@nicwa.org(Portland, Ore., March 27, 2023)—The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA)...
NICWA Comments on Separate Licensing Standards for Relative Foster Family Homes
March 24, 2023NICWA Submits Comments on Separate Licensing Standards for Relative Foster Family Homes On February 14,...
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.