The Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (P.L. 95-608) was enacted on November 08, 1978. The Act is designed to protect Indian children from involuntary removal from their families and Indian tribes, bands, or nations by establishing, by statute minimum Federal Standards to ensure that the breakup of Indian families is prevented. This includes provisions to assure those children that are removed that they will be provided placement in foster or adoptive homes which will reflect the unique values of Indian culture.

The Act also ensures protection of the best interests of those Indian children and their families by providing assistance and funding Indian tribes and Indian organizations for the operation of child and family service programs. The programs are to be established with the purpose of promoting the stability and security of Indian families and reflecting the unique values of Indian culture.