http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kbc/local-kbc-1028591.mp3
Anchorage, AK – Edward Parks isa member of the Native Village of Stevens in Interior Alaska. The mother and child in the case are members of the Native Village of Minto. The state is intervening in an appeal of the Minto tribal court's ruling terminating his parental rights. The state says the court didn't have the authority to make the ruling because Parks isn't a member of the Minto tribe, and by not allowing his attorney to make oral arguments, did'nt provide due process. Tribal representatives say the Indian Child Welfare Act gives tribes jurisdiction over the child and those affecting its well-being. And tribal courts don't have to mimic adversarial procedures involving attorneys, as long as they follow fair, unbiased processes.
The Alaska Federation of Natives has formed an advisory panel to look for advancement opportunities for Native peoples. AFN will hold its statewide convention in Fairbanks Oct. 24-26.
Fundraising that brought in more than $100,000 in the past week will keep a Juneau health clinic for the homeless and low-income open through April 2014.