The Tribal Liaisons have been purposefully drawn from each of the programs: CPS, Permanency, Certification, and SSP. These lead positions receive a differential which shows the respect toward the staff that are focusing their time, energy, and passion in the work. Tribal Liaison Workers: Worked with Central Office to expand and create positions that are unique to the needs of District 1.Read on to see some of the changes they have already made: They remain in the beginning stages of their work with a commitment to keep doing better. Under the leadership of Tim Cork Wayne and Tira McLaughlin, the District 1 Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency programs have been hard at work re-evaluating their approach with how they engage Tribal families and Tribal Nations. Thank you everyone for your commitment to this work!ĭistrict Spotlight: District 1 – Clatsop, Tillamook, Columbia Counties Registration and hotel information will be shared very soon! If ODHS Staff are interested in attending, please reach out to your supervisor as allocations have been sent. I also want to remind folks the 2023 Tribal-State ICWA Conference is on September 27-29 co-hosted by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde at Spirit Mountain Casino.

We will be celebrating the recent Supreme Court decision upholding the constitutionality of the Indian Child Welfare Act and plan to use the positive momentum to address the over-representation of Tribal children in the system. Both Aprille and Claire have demonstrated unwavering commitment to serve Tribes and collaboration with the Office of Tribal Affairs to build equitable and accessible servicesĪs we move into August, I look forward to the quarterly Indian Child Welfare Act Advisory Council meeting hosted by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz. I look forward to continuing our partnership in serving Tribal children, families, and elders. I also want to congratulate Aprille Flint-Gerner as the permanent Child Welfare Director as well as Claire Seguin as the permanent director of Self-Sufficiency Programs. I was joined by Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency Staff from Districts 8,9,10,11, and 12. The training facilitated by Soul Focus, discussed how relationships and human connection can be effective ways to address racism, inequities, and division amongst communities.

Last week I had a chance to attend the Human Solidarity Training in Chiloquin, OR hosted by the Klamath Tribes. In June and July, I had the privilege to meet with leaders from the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and Siletz where we discussed strengthening partnership and transparency. I have been spending much of my time traveling throughout Oregon visiting the Nine Tribes in different capacities. I hope this message finds you all having a great summer.

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