The situation at the southern border is, and has long been, unacceptable. Children, regardless of their country of origin, have a right to be just that—children. This isn’t about immigration; this is about the neglectful treatment of children. Neglect is child abuse, and the abuse of even just one child is abhorrent.
Children don’t belong in cages or separated from their families. They belong in cribs and beds, with books and toys, and above all, loving care–all children deserve loving care.
The children held in these detention camps have suffered through significant adversity. From the violence they fled in their home countries, to the perilous trek to the border, each child has suffered tremendous trauma. Being separated from their families further fans the flames of their suffering.
In instances like this, it is critical that the adults who are providing care must be properly trained in recognizing, responding, and reporting child abuse. Whether it is recognizing the signs and symptoms of previous trauma or responding to a disclosure of abuse, they must be trained.
How can the greatest county in the world treat anyone in this manner, let alone a child? We cannot continue to put children in harm’s way.
At the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children, we are driven by Beau Biden’s belief that “Adults have a legal and moral obligation to stand up and speak out for children who are being abused—they cannot speak for themselves.” Children need a voice.
Please, stand up and speak up for children—be their voice.
Patricia Dailey Lewis, Esq.
Executive Director
Beau Biden Foundation