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Trainer urges youth‑justice workers to partner with tribes, follow ICWA protocols
Summary
Kim Mettler of the Association on American Indian Affairs told webinar attendees that identifying Native youth and collaborating with their nations can reduce justice system disparities, and she outlined practical steps and directories for contacting tribes under ICWA.
Kim Mettler, a trainer with the Association on American Indian Affairs, told a virtual audience that stronger collaboration between local agencies and Native nations is essential to reduce the disproportionate involvement of Native youth in justice systems.
"Native youth are 4 times more likely to be detained than their white counterparts," Mettler said, citing national research she named in the presentation. She framed the problem as rooted in historical trauma — including forced relocation, boarding schools and adoption programs — and argued that trauma‑informed, culturally appropriate services can break cycles that lead to system involvement.
Mettler said the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is not limited to child welfare files: "It applies when a youth is placed…
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