June 27, 2023
NEW YORK, NY– In response to the New York State Legislature passing the Preserving Family Bonds Act, which gives children the opportunity to see their parents after the legal termination of parental rights when this is in the child’s best interest, Shereen A. White, Director of Advocacy & Policy at Children’s Rights released the following statement:
“All children deserve to have more love and stability in their lives. This bill is an opportunity to acknowledge the truth: that family connections can remain strong and even thrive beyond the termination of parental rights. We applaud the New York State Legislature for recognizing this by passing the Preserving Family Bonds Act. This win is thanks to the tireless work of Brooklyn Defenders and their coalition partners, racial justice and children’s rights advocates, Assemblymember LaToya Joyner and Senator Jabari Brisport. Children’s Rights is dedicated to advocating for policies that meaningfully address the trauma that children in the foster system carry, including the separation from their families, culture and communities. By providing children the opportunity to stay in contact with their parents when it’s in their best interests, this act has tremendous healing potential for those impacted by the foster system. We now urge Governor Hochul to sign this legislation as a critical step forward towards a system that prioritizes children’s well-being and keeps families together.”
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About Children’s Rights
Children’s Rights is a national advocacy organization dedicated to improving the lives of children living in or impacted by America’s child welfare, juvenile legal, immigration, education, and healthcare systems. We use civil rights impact litigation, advocacy and policy expertise, and public education to hold governments accountable for keeping kids safe and healthy. Our work centers on creating lasting systemic change that will advance the rights of children for generations. For more information, please visit childrensrights.org.