In my previous post, I linked to an Associated Press article that said a long-awaited summit on Indian foster care had been scheduled for April 15 through 17 in Rapid City. As that date loomed closer and no additional details emerged, I decided to try to obtain them. I talked to an official at the BIA, and learned the following:
- The AP report indicating that the summit would be April 15-17 was incorrect. That was one of several prospective dates that had been discussed when trying to plan the event, but it was never finalized.
- The summit has been scheduled for May 15-17 at the Ramkota hotel in Rapid City.
- The exact agenda for the summit is still pending approval. The summit will be open to members of the public.
- It is unknown at this time whether the South Dakota Department of Social Services will participate. They have been invited, but have been reluctant to commit to participating.
If I receive a public agenda for the event, I plan to post it. I am also planning to try to attend at least part of the summit. I also believe it would be a mistake for DSS to not participate in the event. The State does not have any legitimate interest in secrecy.