Indian Self-Determination and Self-Governance Era 1968-present

1989

Tribal court has jurisdiction over state court in child welfare cases

Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians flag with Federal coloration. Image: Muscogee Red
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians flag with Federal coloration. Image: Muscogee Red

Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians v. Holyfield is a case in which the U.S. Supreme Court holds that the Indian Child Welfare Act governs adoptions of Indian children, and a tribal court has jurisdiction over a state court, regardless of the location of birth of the child, if the child or the natural parents reside on the reservation.

Settler Colonial Policy