Section YAE.02.01 — Purpose

(a) The youth of the Tribe are a vital resource to the Community and are integral in the continued existence of the Tribe.

(b) It is imperative that youths and families who need Tribal services administered pursuant to this code are afforded the services and judicial services through the Tribe first, rather than by other governments.

(c) It is the intent of the Tribe to provide its youth with services through effective case planning that will result in preservation of families.

(d) It is the goal of the Tribe to reunify youths with their parents whenever possible.

(e) This ordinance shall be interpreted to compliment the federal Indian Child Welfare Act, 25 U.S.C. § 1901 et seq. and to foster and strengthen self-determination of the Stockbridge-Munsee Community.