Justices grapple with legality of Indian Child Welfare Act in marathon hearing
Over the course of three hours Wednesday, the Supreme Court grappled with whether a law meant to keep Indigenous children with Native American families should be overturned as racist and unconstitutional, as critics charge.
Arizona Supreme Court limits right of tribes to intercede in adoption cases
In a unanimous decision, the justices rejected arguments by the Gila River Indian Community that Arizona court must transfer such cases to tribal courts. Writing for the court Chief Justice Scott Bales said while such transfer is permissive, it is not a right.
Federal court finds no child endangered by Indian adoption law
A federal judge threw out a bid March 16 to void federal laws that challengers claim is racist because it places the desires and rights of Native American tribes over the constitutionally protected best interests of children.
Culture War: Lawmakers split with tribal leaders over future of Indian Child Welfare Act
Two lawmakers who represent eight Indian tribes aren’t standing with tribal leaders who see a Goldwater Institute lawsuit challenging provisions of the Indian Child Welfare Act as an attack on a law that rectified historic wrongs.
Goldwater Institute seeks to end Native American adoption restrictions
The Goldwater Institute is suing the heads of two federal agencies and Arizona Department of Child Safety Director Greg McKay in its challenge to a child welfare law designed to keep Native American tribes intact.