One out of every ten children in Oklahoma’s foster care system are Cherokee citizens. Cherokee leadership’s message for National Foster Care Awareness Month is that Native foster parents are vital to finding solutions that work best for Native children. The Cherokee Nation is among the many tribes working to build a strong system of support for foster children and foster parents. The effort comes as many Native child advocates warn of a potential increase in need as federal social service programs are disappearing.

GUESTS

Stephanie Benally (Navajo), Native American specialist for Utah Foster Care

Sally Wilson (Cherokee Nation), senior director for Cherokee Nation Indian Child Welfare

Gaynell Realbird (Shoshone Bannock and Blackfeet), board member for the Mountain Shadow Association

David Simmons, director of government affairs and advocacy for the National Indian Child Welfare Association

Break 1 Music: Generations (song) P. Town Boyz (artist) P. Town Boyz (album)

Break 2 Music: BALDH3AD! (song) Theia (artist)