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Throughout the summer, we shared several articles about the passing of the Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPCWDA). In the first two we discussed the goals of reducing disparities (READ #1 HERE) and broke down the more specific policy details (Read #2 HERE). As we continue to learn more about this act, its implementation, and the intended impact, we also want to invite in some community perspectives. This month, we spoke with some local community leaders to hear their thoughts on this work.

Our conversation focused on how Implementing MAAFPCWDA is not just about policy change; it’s about transforming the way we approach child welfare and interact with our communities. The Act is fundamentally about reducing racial disparities and supporting African American families in navigating the child welfare system.

One local professional from the Black community spoke about the potential impact of the Act by saying, "With any project where we are trying to increase equity and help people thrive, there is going to be a positive change." The Act is expected to enhance family support, ensuring that the community and legal systems work in tandem to help families improve and thrive.

Community Involvement

MAAFPCWDA has the potential to do a lot to support families, but multiple leaders have brought up the importance of making our broader community aware of and involved in this too. Multiple Black community leaders have emphasized the importance of government building trust with community members and ensuring that African American families feel heard and involved. "We want to see lots of community advocacy, and make sure the community is a part of it," one advocate mentioned.

Additionally, while the Act is focused on African American families, it’s important to recognize that effective implementation will require the involvement of people outside of the African American community as well. "Having other people outside of the African American community be part of the training and communication is important too—everyone needs to do this work," noted one leader.

Potential Concerns

One of the primary concerns raised was the potential resistance to change. As one community leader noted, "Things have been done the same way for a very long time, and some people might be resistant to it and want to continue doing things the way they have always been done."

This sentiment highlights a broader issue within systems that have historically marginalized African American families. The implementation of this Act requires not just awareness, but a deep commitment to cultural competency and the willingness to adapt to new practices that better serve these families.

Opportunities for Development

The Training Academy and community partners have hosted listening sessions to bring community members into the development of this work. The Academy will continue to follow this process to inform and improve the work being done.

Along with child welfare professionals engaging with the development and advocacy around Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act, we also recognize that we will need community partners from all sectors to be involved in and knowledgeable about this work for it to be successful. One leader mentioned, "No one usually tells you what to do within the system to be successful." This and other community leaders emphasized the need for African American families to have clear guidance on how to navigate the system effectively.

This kind of support often comes from child welfare professionals but can also be informed by individuals in other fields and spaces as well. Making the broader community aware and getting the community involved in the rollout of Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act can make a significant difference in ensuring that families receive the resources and help they need to succeed.

What Can Child Welfare Workers Do?

The goal of this conversation was to share with our child welfare workforce, how community leaders outside of the direct child welfare system are viewing the act. This perspective is valuable as it highlights the current gaps in understanding that exist between those working in child welfare and communities interacting with the system in other ways.

Child welfare workers should not only be informed about ongoing training and professional development opportunities, but they should also consider how they can inform their broader community about this work as well. "Remember that this is impacting the lives of humans—be compassionate, be patient," one community leader urged. The transition may be challenging, but it’s crucial to give both the system and the families it serves the grace to adjust and thrive.

MNCWTA would like to thank the community leaders who took time to talk with us about their perspectives on this work. We also thank all child welfare workers who bring this work to life within their communities.