> Bad news everyone. HR 3286, the Adoption bill passed in the House this
> morning, with the ICWA amendments INTACT. That means Title 3, which was
> added to the adoption bill, which used to be HR3725 passed in the house
> along with the Adoption bill. The next step is the senate, where the
> Adoption bill is sponsored by Senator McCain of Arizona...
Khwe,
I can well understand the concern this house bill which passed today
engenders for our families and children. It appears that much continues
to be removed from us as sovereign nations. However, It is my under-
standing of this bill that it affects only those who do not maintain
tribal ties and participation in their communities tribal communities. It
seems that the answer to the problem this legislation creates, regardless
of which version of the bill is passed in the US congress is to maintain
strong communitiy ties. Why aren't the young people reaching out to their
elders when in crisis or right along throughout their lives? It is not up
to the white government to define who is native and who is not. It is a
tribal matter. Each nation knows who its people are and knows who is in
need of help, etc. Why has it been that these young people in trouble
turn to the white society for support - thus losing tribal status in the
government's eyes?
It seems that it is time that we cease to look to the US for solutions and
find the unity within our communities which will withstand all legislative
assaults.
Strengthen our communties, so that the white law means nothing!
Unenh
Ishgooda