A Message from NICWA’s Executive Director

Dear NICWA Members, Donors, and Friends,

I am pleased to share with you the NICWA fiscal year 2024 annual report, United by Culture, Guided by Community. This past year, we continued our collective work to protect the well-being of Native children and families, guided by the enduring strength of our cultures and the natural safety net of our communities.

Throughout the year, we saw firsthand how the power of unity and shared values can drive positive change for future generations. With the Supreme Court’s historic 7-2 decision upholding the constitutionality of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)in Haaland v. Brackeen, we started off this fiscal year with collective celebration. We ramped up our advocacy to strengthen ICWA implementation and tribal child welfare systems in partnership with tribal nations. We’ve been thinking about the long-term and asking the question, “What can be done this year or this moment?”

As you read through this report, you will see how our growing membership spans far and wide, representing Native child welfare advocates from across the United States and Canada, united in their commitment to protecting our children. We have significantly expanded our resources for relative caregivers and tribal child welfare programs, including the release of the updated Positive Indian Parenting (4th edition), a parenting curriculum based in traditional, cultural practices and a vital tool for ensuring children grow up safe with strong families. This year, we also hosted 11 tribal leader listening sessions, helping us shape our priorities for the years ahead.

As we look forward to another year of connecting with Native child welfare practitioners and advocates, I want to thank you for your commitment to standing with us. Together, we are making a lasting impact for generations to come.

With gratitude for your partnership,

Sarah L. Kastelic, PhD (Alutiiq)