Statement attributable to:
Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, M.D., M.P.H.
President, American Medical Association
“Today’s decision in Haaland v. Brackeen is a victory for Native Nations, children, and their families. The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is an important tool in redressing centuries of harmful federal and state policies that sought to destroy American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) families by systemically separating children from their families and Native nations. A child’s extended family, followed by members of their Native nation, should be the first preference for adoption before considering placing AI/AN children in foster care.
“The supportive relationships and positive childhood experiences contributed by a child’s extended family and members of their Native nation are of unique importance to the wellbeing and development of AI/AN children. The American Medical Association stands in solidarity with our nation's Indigenous people as demonstrated by the amicus brief (PDF) we submitted in support of the ICWA in this critical case.”
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