SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Yesterday, the Minnesota House Judiciary and Children and Families Committee held a public hearing on HF 1071, authored by Rep. Heather Keeler (DFL – Moorhead). The bill will make improvements to the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) of 1978 which establishes child protection procedures and requirements for children who are members of or eligible for membership in a federally recognized Tribe.
Representative Cedrick Frazier (DFL- New Hope) issued the following statement:
“There is a clear through line from the past to the present day. Policies morph to maintain the status quo-a status quo that is one of division, displacement, oppression, and eradication. This nation and this state are forever in the debt of the indigenous people and their nations that existed long better settlers came to this land. Therefore, it should be the duty and obligation to preserve the culture and history of the indigenous people.”