| Gregory E. Pyle, Chief Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma |
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| Gary Batton, Asst. Chief Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma |
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The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) ICWA is a federal law that seeks to keep American Indian children with American Indian families. Congress passed ICWA in 1978 in response to the alarmingly high number of Indian children being removed from their homes by both public and private agencies. The intent of Congress under ICWA was to "protect the best interests of Indian children and to promote the stability and security of Indian tribes and families." ICWA sets federal requirements that apply to state child custody proceedings involving an Indian child who is a member of or eligible for membership in a federally recognized tribe. When ICWA applies to a child’s case, the child’s tribe and family will have an opportunity to be involved in decisions affecting services for the Indian child. A tribe or a parent can also petition to transfer jurisdiction of the case to their own tribal court. ICWA sets out federal requirements regarding removal and placement of Indian children in foster or adoptive homes and allows the child’s tribe to intervene in the case. Click Here for Frequently Asked Questions about ICWA View and Download the ICWA Process Flowchart 
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| Our children. Our tribe. Our future. Children and Family Services is committed to the preservation of Choctaw Families and our heritage. 800-522-6170 580-924-8280 Contact us |
