Each February, Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of Black communities to our society and to recognize the ongoing journey toward equity and justice. We first and foremost must recognize and understand the historical harm that the child welfare system has caused to Black children and families in the United States.

Structural racism in the child welfare system has led to an overrepresentation of youth of color in child welfare, child protection, and juvenile systems. Black families are disproportionately represented in child welfare and are more likely to experience negative outcomes compared with white families. Knowing how the system has caused harm to the Black community is a vital first step as we work to address racial disparities and inequities in our work. Within child welfare practice, this month is a call to action—a reminder to celebrate resilience, address disparities, and advocate for policies that strengthen families and communities.

Recognizing Progress: The Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act

In 2023, Minnesota enacted the African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPCWDA), a groundbreaking law aimed at reducing racial disparities in child welfare and protecting the integrity of African American families. MAAFPCWDA emphasizes culturally responsive practices, requiring child welfare agencies to:

  • Prioritize family preservation and kinship placements.
  • Collaborate with community organizations to provide culturally specific services.
  • Center African American voices in decision-making processes.

This legislation reflects a critical shift toward addressing systemic inequities and honoring the cultural heritage of African American families. It also aligns with one of the goals of child welfare, which is to ensure that every child—regardless of background—has the opportunity to thrive.

Addressing Racial Disparities in Child Welfare

Despite progress, African American families continue to face disproportionate rates of child removal and placement in foster care. This reality underscores the importance of anti-racist practices in child welfare. By understanding historical contexts and confronting biases, we can:

  • Build trust with African American families.
  • Ensure fair and equitable treatment in assessments and interventions.
  • Support initiatives that recruit and retain Black child welfare professionals, who bring invaluable cultural insight and lived experiences to the field.

Elevating Black Voices and Stories

Honoring Black History Month involves amplifying the voices of Black Americans who have shaped the child welfare system and advocating for systemic change. This includes:

  • Learning from Leaders: Highlighting pioneers such as Dorothy Height and others who championed children’s rights and family preservation.
  • Sharing Family Narratives: Encouraging families to share their experiences with the child welfare system to inform better practices.
  • Promoting Representation: Celebrating Black child welfare workers and their vital contributions to creating inclusive environments for children and families.

Practical Steps for Child Welfare Professionals

To honor Black History Month meaningfully, child welfare professionals can take actionable steps to support African American families:

  • Engage in Cultural Competency Training: Strengthen your understanding of African American history and its impact on families today.
  • Build Community Partnerships: Collaborate with organizations serving African American communities to provide holistic and culturally relevant services.
  • Advocate for Policy Change: Support legislation like MAAFPACWDA that prioritizes family preservation, equity, and reducing disparities for Black families.
  • Reflect on Personal Biases: Commit to ongoing self-awareness and growth to ensure unbiased decision-making within child welfare practice.

A Shared Commitment to Equity, Justice, and Anti-racism

Black History Month is not just a time to look back on past achievements; it is an opportunity to recommit ourselves to a future where equity and justice are realized for all families. Equity can only happen when everyone has the appropriate opportunities to achieve success, while justice requires a combination of policy change, cultural shift, and persistent efforts from all sectors of society.

MAAFPCWDA is one example of how child welfare workers can promote equity, commit to justice, and foster anti-racist practices. By effectively engaging Black families, we can reduce the number of children removed from homes each year. We can also move closer to a child welfare system that uplifts and empowers families, regardless of their race, when we commit to utilizing active efforts rather than passive efforts.

Let us celebrate the resilience and contributions of Black and African American families while continuing to work toward a more equitable future. Together, we can create a child welfare system that honors every family’s history and ensures every child’s potential is realized. We encourage our communities to take action to support black history throughout the month of February and the year. We have curated a list of events throughout Minnesota that we encourage you to attend or learn more about, while you also think about new ways you can engage and support Black communities, businesses, and organizations in your area. Let us know if we missed anything and tag us on social media about what you are doing throughout Black History Month @mncwta!

Events for Black History Month:

Online

Metro/Twin Cities, Minneapolis, St. Paul

Southeast Minnesota

Northeast Minnesota

Central Minnesota

Southwest Minnesota

Northwest Minnesota