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This workshop from August 2009 explores issues faced in Tribal-State relationships such as ICWA cases, communication styles, and lack of knowledge regarding sovereignty. It provides remedies like MOUs, collaborative meetings, and a team approach to foster better understanding and collaboration. Examples of conflicts and their resolutions are discussed, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on the best interests of children. Stakeholder meetings and follow-ups are suggested to strengthen relationships and identify common goals for improved services.
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State/County/TribalPartnerships Terri Yellowhammer MCWIC Tribal Gathering August 2009
Necessary Relationships • Federal/State grants • Indian Child Welfare Act cases in District Court • State/County financial responsibility for children under tribal court order (in tribal court) • Tribal participation in State/County decision making
Issues • Communication styles vary • Different expectations around communication • Assumptions • ICWA seen as discriminatory by some • Lack of knowledge re: sovereignty • Fear/resentment • Both sides dig in
Remedies? • Memorandum of Understanding/Agreement • Tribal/State Agreements on enforcement of ICWA, • State ICWA laws, training • Regular staffings • Collaborative meetings between county and tribal entities • Mediation
Remedies,continued • Team approach • Important to produce an end product/protocol/agreement • Even with this, problems/attitudes may linger • Important to see big picture w/re to relationships
Child and Family Service Reviews • Stakeholder meetings • Follow up by asking for report • Can be time to suggest ways to collaborate
Examples of being stuck • County non payment for children under tribal court order for MN tribe • Media involved; misrepresentation of dollar amount for tribal children in care • Involved Attorney General’s Office, threat of lawsuit • Both sides dug in • Took extraordinary measures to address
How to resolve? • Agreed on meeting location • Shared a meal • Everyone had a chance to speak • Value in venting – but in moderation • Need to take the reins • Important to stay on track • ‘eyes on the prize’
Resolution? • What is our common ground? • What do we care about, as service providers? • Our love for our children
Questions? • Terri Yellowhammer • terriy01@msn.com • (612) 889-7922 • Mii gwetch/Pilamayayeye !