In this episode, Sonia Johnson, Esq. , Classie Colinet Esp., and Dr. Denise Johnson, discuss the realities of child removal in the child welfare system.

Dr. Johnson discusses the deep and lasting impact on children when they’re separated from their families, explaining how they lose not only their home but also their sense of trust and safety.

Dr. Johnson breaks down the psychological effects of removal, the challenges of rebuilding family bonds, and the systemic issues that complicate reunification.

This conversation sheds light on the importance of trauma-informed care and explores what we can do to better support children and families in these situations. Join us for an important discussion on family, resilience, and change.

In this episode Sonia and Classie continue their conversation with Shereen White, Director of Advocacy at Children's Rights and Kelis Houston, Executive Director of Village Arms who are pushing for change in the child welfare system. Kalis shares a behind-the-scenes look at the years of advocacy, legislative challenges, and community resilience that culminated in the ⁠Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act. ⁠This landmark legislation aims to protect Black families from systemic bias in child welfare, setting a higher standard of "active efforts" over "reasonable efforts" for caseworkers.

Join us as we unpack the hard-won victories, the sacrifices made, and the ongoing fight to dismantle systemic racism within child welfare.

In the Season 3 premiere, hosts Sonia Johnson and Classie Colinet sit down with Shireen White, Director of Advocacy at Children’s Rights, and Khalees Houston, Executive Director of Village Arms. They discuss their work addressing systemic racism and the overrepresentation of African American families in Minnesota's child welfare system. Khalees shares how her advocacy led to the creation and passage of the Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act, a law aimed at stopping biased removal practices and keeping families together. Shireen adds insights from her work on systemic reform and community collaboration across the country. This episode explores the challenges within child welfare and the role of legislative action in driving change.

References:

Complaint Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d, and 45 C.F.R. Part 80 Regarding Discrimination by the State of Minnesota

Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act