May 19, 2015.
That's your deadline to become a part of ICWA history.
The BIA has proposed the first-ever set of substantive ICWA regulations aimed at creating more protection for Native children and families.
NICWA is asking you to make your voice heard during the 60-day comment period that ends May 19, 2015. Now is your chance to weigh in on the issues related to ICWA that matter most to you and your family.
There are two ways you can participate.
#1
BIA officials are hosting a series of public hearings and tribal consultations between April 20 ??- May 14, 2015, in communities all across the country. It is imperative for tribal leaders, tribal social service directors, urban Indian organizations, Native families, and adult adoptees to attend the tribal consultations and public hearings. NICWA has created some sample talking points that can be used at these events.
These vital meetings start next week, so mark you calendars now. Forward this message to your tribal council. They need to be at these hearings.
Public Hearings
Tribal Consultations
#2
Submit written comments to the BIA. They are due May 19th and can be submitted here or emailed to comments@bia.gov (subject line: "ICWA"). We have put together a sample comment letter that you may wish to use. Comments don't have to be formal or technical. We encourage you to share your own thoughts about the ICWA regulations and the overall importance of ICWA with the BIA.
Will you stand up for our children?
So many of our families have an ICWA story to tell. Now is your opportunity to explain to policymakers directly how important ICWA is, how regulations are necessary, and why 35 years of non-compliance needs to come to an end...for the sake of our children.
Will you share their stories with the BIA?
On May 19, 2015, your chance to weigh in on these matters will end.
May 19, 2015.
It will be here before you know it. Will your voice be heard?
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