caLIFORNIA icwa
California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) plays a crucial role in implementing the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) within the state, aiming to protect the best interests of Indian children and uphold their connections with their tribes. The CDSS is actively involved in regulation development to integrate California law AB 3176 into the Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) Division 31 Regulations, ensuring alignment with the federal ICWA standards. This is part of a broader effort to enhance and protect the connection of Indian children to their tribe and tribal community, complying with both federal and state standards. [“]
Furthermore, the CDSS has established the ICWA Hotline as a vital resource for tribal representatives to report concerns related to the compliance of county Child Welfare Services (CWS) agencies and probation departments with ICWA standards. The hotline supports confidential disclosures and is part of CDSS’s mission to promote the best interests of Indian children by safeguarding their tribal relationships. This initiative reflects a commitment to oversight and proper implementation of ICWA standards at the county level, addressing reports of non-compliance and facilitating investigations to ensure adherence to these critical standards. [“]
In response to tribal concerns and to support the implementation of ICWA, the CDSS developed the Office of Tribal Affairs. This office emphasizes the importance of the state and tribal government-to-government relationship for successful child welfare practice. California, home to the largest Native American and Alaska Native population in the United States, has been working towards improving ICWA compliance and fostering better outcomes for Native American children and families. The collaboration with the Capacity Building Center for States aims to build CDSS’s capacity in implementing its Tribal consultation policy, meaningfully engaging tribes, and advancing statewide ICWA practice. [“]
For more detailed information, you can explore the resources and initiatives outlined on the CDSS’s official ICWA page at CDSS ICWA and the ICWA Hotline page at CDSS ICWA Hotline.
The Office of Tribal Affairs
The Office of Tribal Affairs (OTA) at the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) plays a pivotal role in fostering government-to-government relationships between the CDSS, California Indian Tribes, and other stakeholders. Its vision is centered around cultivating informed participation and trusting relationships to enhance the well-being of American Indian children and families. The OTA’s mission is rooted in meaningful tribal consultation, engaging core stakeholders, and advising leadership to guide CDSS efforts in creating policies, procedures, and programs that serve American Indian children and families effectively.
Key values of the OTA include respect for Tribal Sovereignty, integrity, transparency, and a solutions-focused approach. The office is led by Stephanie Weldon, working remotely and reachable through TribalAffairs@dss.ca.gov for contact and more information. [“]
The OTA implements the CDSS Tribal Consultation Policy (TCP), finalized in 2017, which is committed to effective communication and consultation with California Indian Tribes. This policy provides a framework for tribal officials to offer meaningful input into the development of regulations, rules, and policies affecting tribal communities. The OTA’s involvement includes advising CDSS leadership on best practices when working with tribal governments and coordinating department-wide efforts that impact Tribes. [“]
In response to tribal concerns and disparities in child welfare outcomes for Native American children, youth, and families, the CDSS, in collaboration with the Capacity Building Center for States, developed the OTA. This partnership aimed to improve the department’s capacity to implement its Tribal consultation policy, meaningfully engage Tribes, and advance statewide ICWA practice. OTA’s approach to capacity building and systemic improvement emphasizes equity work, understanding Tribes as governments, and addressing institutional racism to improve outcomes for Indian children and families within the child welfare system.
For further details and resources, you can visit the CDSS’s Office of Tribal Affairs page.
