NICWA — Annual Protecting Our Children Conference

Overview
The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) hosts the Annual Protecting Our Children Conference, the largest national gathering dedicated to Native child advocacy. This event convenes professionals, advocates, and community leaders to exchange the latest developments and best practices in the field. NICWA's institutional scope is rooted in the protection and well-being of Native children and families, and the conference serves as a critical platform for disseminating knowledge and fostering collaboration. While the opportunity is structured as a grant, it is fundamentally a call for contributions to a vital discourse. Participants are expected to present work that is both rigorous and responsive to the needs of Native communities. The conference provides a forum for sharing research, programs, and strategies that uphold tribal sovereignty and cultural integrity. Those selected will join a cohort of experts committed to advancing child welfare practices that are culturally grounded and community-driven. The curatorial vision emphasizes practical, evidence-based approaches that can be implemented across diverse Native contexts. Proposals should demonstrate a clear understanding of the intersection between child welfare and Native sovereignty, and should offer actionable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and community members. NICWA seeks presentations that are not only informative but also transformative, contributing to the ongoing effort to protect and nurture Native children.