New Position Expedites Progress On Indigenous Child Welfare

British Columbia has a new Indigenous child welfare director position aimed at better ensuring the safety, wellness, and access to community and culture for Indigenous children.

“We know Indigenous children are best cared for by Indigenous communities and when connected to community, family and culture,” said Grace Lore, Minister of Children and Family Development.

“This position has been long advocated for by First Nations leadership and Indigenous partners, and continues our work to reform the child welfare system and reduce the over-representation of Indigenous children and youth in care.”

Bill 38, the Indigenous Self-Government in Child and Family Services Amendment Act, was passed into law in November 2022.

Since then, the ministry has worked to co-develop with First Nations leadership and Indigenous partners the role and responsibilities of this position, better defining the position’s scope and responsibilities in anticipation of posting the position this spring.

“There continues to be a crisis in First Nations child welfare in the province of B.C., rooted in the intersecting and devastating impacts of colonialism,” said Chief Don Tom, vice-president, Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs.

“We are hopeful that the position of Indigenous child welfare director is one step toward increased accountability and support for First Nations kids.”

The new director position will also ensure seamless delivery of services between Indigenous and provincial laws, as more First Nations exercise their inherent jurisdiction over their children and families.

The ICWD will hold powers equal to the provincial director of child welfare, with both roles designated at the assistant deputy minister level.

The role will include providing advice, guidance and oversight on key Indigenous child and family services and supports, an intense focus on prevention services aimed to keep young Indigenous people in their home and connected to their communities, cultures and languages, to support Indigenous jurisdiction by harmonizing the rights and laws of Indigenous Peoples with provincial and federal child welfare laws and uphold the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.