Child Welfare License (CWEL) Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) was passed in 1978. This landmark legislation was enacted to address the alarming rates of Indian children being removed from their families and placed in non-Indian foster homes or adopted by non-Indian families. The Act aims to preserve and maintain Native American culture and family connections by establishing standards for the placement of Indian children in foster or adoptive homes.

The significance of the year 1978 lies in the recognition by the U.S. government of the detrimental effects that the high rates of removal had on Native American communities. ICWA emphasizes the importance of cultural connections and the right of Native American tribes to participate in child custody proceedings involving their children. This was a pivotal moment in child welfare policy aimed at protecting the rights of Native American families and promoting the stability and integrity of their communities.