Judge Ron Whitener and Kate Fort Presentations at NCJFCJ Annual Conference

Judge Ron Whitener, Chief Judge of the Tulalip Tribal Court, was the first ever Native plenary speaker at NCJFCJ’s Annual Conference. He gave a presentation entitled “How State and Tribal Court Judges Can Work Together to Improve Outcomes.” Judge Whitener’s presentation was very well-received by the judges, and he received a standing ovation from the audience.

In addition, Kate Fort presented a well-attended session entitled “What State Court Judges Need to Know About ICWA.” Kate gave a brief update on recent court activity around ICWA and then summarized some key provisions in the new ICWA regulations. The judges were thrilled to receive this brand new and important information.

Thanks to both of them for their contributions to the conference and to NCJFCJ for its continuing commitment to tribal courts, tribal issues, and tribal-state collaborations.

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