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National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) to Convene National American Indian Conference in Denver, Colorado.

Portland, Oregon - April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. During this annual observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month, The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is sponsoring the 22nd Annual "Protecting our Children" National American Indian Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, April 3-7, 2004, at the Marriott Tech Center, Denver, Colorado. This yearly conference provides participants with the newest abuse prevention, child protection, and parenting information for both Native and non-Native participants.

The conference will focus on efforts to "Put our minds together to leave no Indian child behind." Sessions include topics covering "Toss Away Juveniles? How can tribal child welfare protect our youth?" "Updates on Federal Legislation Affecting Indian and Alaska Native Children," and "Keeping Indian Children in Indian Culture." Scheduled speakers include Christine Devere, U.S. House of Representatives staff and Cecelia Fire Thunder, internationally known Native wellness advocate.

"The well-being of Indian children and families is our top priority," NICWA Executive Director Terry Cross said. "Through this conference and our other outreach efforts, NICWA continues its commitment to quality preventive services and public awareness as effective tools in the fight against child abuse and neglect in Indian Country."

The NICWA is the only national Indian organization, either public or private that is focused on child abuse and neglect issues that impact Indian children and families and is considered to be the most comprehensive source of information on American Indian child welfare. NICWA provides public policy, research, advocacy, information, training, and community development services to a broad national audience.

For more information contact, Kristen Potts, by telephone: 503-222-2044 or by e-mail: kpotts@nicwa.org.