Final answer:
The Multi-Ethnic Placement Act (MEPA) is a federal law that prevents discrimination in the placement of children in foster care or adoption based on their race, color, or national origin. It promotes culturally sensitive and responsive homes for children.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Multi-Ethnic Placement Act (MEPA) is a federal law in the United States that was passed in 1994. The purpose of the MEPA is to prevent discrimination in the placement of children in foster care or adoption based on their race, color, or national origin.
Before the MEPA, there were cases where children of minority backgrounds were often placed in foster care or adoption homes with families of different ethnicities. The MEPA aims to promote the best interests of children by ensuring that they are placed in homes that are culturally sensitive and responsive to their needs.
For example, if a child is of African American descent, the MEPA would prevent them from being placed in a home with a family that may not understand or appreciate their cultural heritage. It promotes the idea that children should be raised in an environment that supports their cultural identity.