About CAL-ICWA

CAL-ICWA Mission Statement

The mission of CAL-ICWA is to ensure that American Indian children and families in the California juvenile dependency and juvenile delinquency system receive the protections, services and rights afforded them by the federally enacted Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA). Moreover, as a long-term solution, CAL-ICWA supports tribes’ rights to take jurisdiction over their ICWA children and families, and to develop and operate their own culturally appropriate system of services.

Primary functions of CAL-ICWA

Advocate for ICWA compliance at the CA state and county level.
Support tribes by helping them develop constructive partnerships with county agencies.
Pursue ICWA non-compliance issues that highlight representative problems and promote effective remedies.
Collect and share successful strategies with tribal, state and county organizations.
Provide programs and training to California Indian Tribes and ICWA Workers.
Serve as a resource for social workers who seek information on Indian children in foster and adoption care systems.

CAL-ICWA, established in 2004, is supported by Indian Dispute Resolution Services, Inc. (IDRS), a national Indian organization that offers Collaboration and Conflict Resolution services to Indian tribes and organizations. IDRS works to strengthen tribal self-determination and build “government to government” relationships with federal, state and county government agencies.

CAL-ICWA Articles of Association

What’s the difference between CAL-ICWA and ICWA?

CAL-ICWA is a grass roots organization in the state of California promoting state compliance with the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), enacted by the United States Congress in 1978.

ICWA addresses abuses against Indian children, families and tribes. Up to now, not enough has been done by California state and county agencies to comply with ICWA’s requirements and protect the unique culture and traditions of Indian communities.

CAL-ICWA helps county and state agencies interact with sovereign nations. Lack of compliance persists and will continue to persist until we speak with one unified voice of advocacy.