Minnesota State Wire

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements after the United States Supreme Court rejected the constitutional challenges to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

Statement from Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan:

“The U.S. Supreme Court did what’s right for Native children and their families with its opinion that upholds the Indian Child Welfare Act. In Minnesota, we’re committed to making decisions that are rooted in what’s best for children, which is why we passed legislation this year to keep ICWA policies in place regardless of what this opinion would be. This opinion affirms that we were right. I’m grateful for all the people who have told their stories over the decades to get us to this place - a decision that recognizes our sovereignty and protects our right to raise our babies. Those stories matter. We will keep telling our stories and we must ensure that our Native children remain with their families.”

Statement from Governor Tim Walz:

“In Minnesota, we remain committed to upholding justice and protecting Native children and families from destructive policies, but these values unfortunately do not span across the nation. I am relieved to know that the U.S. Supreme Court recognizes the importance of the Indian Child Welfare Act. Our work does not end here. We will continue to listen and work collaboratively with Native communities and Tribes that share our geography to make Minnesota the best state for all children and families.”

Original source can be found here.