Whereas sibling relationships are among the most important bonds in human development, contributing to children’s emotional stability and long-term well-being;

Whereas for children who experience abuse, neglect, or instability, sibling relationships often serve as their most consistent source of support and belonging;

Whereas, when children enter foster care, the preservation of sibling relationships is critical to maintaining permanency, reducing trauma, and driving successful outcomes;

Whereas it is estimated that approximately 53 to 80 percent of children in foster care are separated from at least 1 sibling;

Whereas research demonstrates that sibling separation in foster care is associated with increased placement instability, behavioral challenges, and adverse mental health outcomes;

Whereas current child welfare data systems often fail to accurately track sibling separations, particularly in cases involving adoption, resulting in a systemic undercounting of the scope and impact of this issue;

Whereas this data gap limits the ability of policymakers, practitioners, and advocates to understand and address the harms caused by sibling separation fully;

Whereas it is within the national and moral interest of the United States to make progress in ensuring that no child is separated from their siblings;

Whereas advocates across the United States are working to advance policies and practices that prioritize sibling placement, visitation, and lifelong connection; and

Whereas increased awareness of sibling separation in foster care would elevate the voices of foster care alumni and promote policies that prioritize maintaining and restoring sibling relationships: Now, therefore, be it