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
Amplifying Tribal Voices: NICWA Testimony for the 26th Annual HHS Tribal Budget Consultation
Amplifying Tribal Voices: NICWA Testimony for the 26th Annual Department of Health and Human Services Tribal Budget...
MEDIA ADVISORY: NICWA Announces Four Host Sponsors for the 42nd Annual Protecting Our Children Conference
Media Contactmedia@nicwa.orgMEDIA ADVISORY: NICWA Announces Four Host Sponsors for the 42nd Annual Protecting Our...
National Indian Child Welfare Association Hosts a National Day of Prayer for Native Children
Media Contactmedia@nicwa.org(Portland, Ore., April 1, 2024)—April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This month...
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.