Child Welfare

Protect ICWA Campaign Launches “ICWA 2050” to Strengthen Native Child Welfare

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The Protect ICWA Campaign has introduced ICWA 2050, a 25-year strategy to strengthen the Indian Child Welfare Act and secure its impact on Native child welfare for generations. Unveiled on ICWA’s recent 46th anniversary, the plan focuses on expanding tribal child welfare programs and partnerships.

“ICWA 2050 not only fortifies protections for Native children today but also builds a path for generations to come, ensuring that our children remain grounded in their cultures and communities,” said Larry Wright, Jr., executive director of the National Congress of American Indians.

Launched in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Haaland v. Brackeen, which upheld ICWA’s constitutionality, the plan seeks to further tribal sovereignty and ensure ICWA’s role as a national child welfare standard. The initiative’s goals include:

  • Bolstering tribal welfare capacity
  • Advancing ICWA-aligned policy nationwide
  • Strengthening tribal-state partnerships

For the full ICWA 2050 plan, click here.