“There is no resource that is more vital to the continued existence and integrity of Indian tribes than their children.” — Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978
ICWA
Alarmed by the high percentage of Indian families broken up for little reason, Congress changed federal policy through the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) of 1978. The law sets minimum standards for state agency and court proceedings. It also recognizes the role of tribal governments in foster and adoption cases.
Agency,Michigan Indian (May 1980)
MIFPA
To strengthen and clarify ICWA, the Michigan Indian Family Preservation Act (MIFPA) was enacted in 2012. The goals: preservation of Indian families and protection of tribal sovereignty.