An alarming figure illustrates that Nebraska has the second-highest imbalance in the country when it comes to the number of Native American children in the state’s foster care system. Though Native Americans make up roughly one percent of Nebraska’s population, native children represent eight percent of the total number of children in foster care.
Nebraska Appleseed, the Nebraska ICWA Coalition, and the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs (NCIA) as well as a number of tribal representatives, affected family members, and other advocates will participate in a Legislative interim study – LR 578 – today in Macy on the Omaha Reservation to look at how well the state is complying with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
Appleseed believes a child’s connection to their family and their culture is vital to their positive development. We are pleased to take part in this study that hopefully will result in solutions that ensure our state’s native children, families, and tribes remain strong.
What: LR 578 – Study to assess Nebraska’s compliance with Indian Child Welfare Act and to make suggestions for improvements in child welfare system in regards to Native American children.
When: Tuesday, September 25, 1:30 p.m.
Where: Nebraska Indian Community College Auditorium, Macy, NE
Read Appleseed’s testimony
Read the Nebraska ICWA Coalition’s recommendations to improve ICWA in Nebraska