SOCIAL JUSTICE BLOG
Read and share extraordinary stories from the frontlines of social change
Foster Youth & Advocate Stand Up To Over-Prescription Of Psychotropics
A class action in Missouri challenged the state alleging it unlawfully deprived children in foster care of their liberty interest by failing to provide adequate oversight in the administration of powerful psychotropic medications. It took courage for Khi, a young child at the time, to stand up to state actors who were in a position to continue to abuse her. Fortunately, Kris was determined to stand up for Khi. While not a relative or in any way legally responsible for Khi’s health and safety, Kris took professional and legal risks to protect Khi. Belittled, gaslit, and threatened, they persisted. They stood up together and prevailed. This is their story…
Class Action Protects Maine Foster Youth from Dangerous Risks of Psychotropics
Psychotropics can be a meaningful and effective treatment for children with mental health conditions when administered appropriately, but administering them without informed consent, proper oversight, or review can lead to serious, and sometimes life-threatening, consequences. The reforms achieved in the settlement in Bryan C. v. Lambrew are paramount for protecting foster youth. The work of Children’s Rights has ensured that children just like Bryan C. are free of unnecessary and harmful prescriptions and that their voices are heard.
Indiscriminate Use of Psychotropics among Children in Foster Care Is a National Disgrace
Because of the success of our lawsuit, Missouri will now begin implementing reforms to protect these children: medical records will be monitored; doctors and caregivers, with real input from youth, will vet the risks and the benefits of medication before it is administered; and an independent child psychiatrist will be available to provide secondary review of prescriptions for efficacy and safety.
Don't Despair: Litigate! The Legal Community’s Response to the Family Separation Crisis & How You Can Take Action.
The response of civil and human rights advocates has been strategic litigation to remind those in power that they cannot do that, that there is a rule of law, and that it will be enforced.