For weeks now, a troubling thought has lingered in the back of my mind. Following the resurgence of #TimesUp by influential voices like Oprah, and the revival of #MeToo by Alyssa Milano, I find myself reflecting on Tarana Burke’s original purpose for the Me Too movement, which aimed to uplift young women of color who have experienced sexual violence. Her goal was to protect and empower them.
Now, twelve years later, I can’t help but question whether the time truly is up for those who are the most vulnerable among us—foster children. A report to Congress from 2010 reveals that these children are ten times more likely to suffer sexual abuse compared to those living with both biological parents. Despite Congress being aware of this alarming issue for nearly a decade, the rates of abuse continue to be shockingly high.
A smaller study focused on girls in foster care found that 81% had experienced sexual abuse, with 68% victimized by multiple perpetrators. One of our advocates, Maria, has a vivid memory of her past, but when discussing her own experiences of sexual abuse, she struggles to recall specifics. Trauma has obscured her memories from before age eight, yet she is all too aware of the abuse her foster siblings faced. The statistic about foster children being ten times more likely to endure such trauma resonates with her personal experiences and highlights the ongoing crisis for children still within the system.
I deeply appreciate the women using their platforms to shine a light on issues that affect all women. Many of us can relate to their experiences, recalling moments of harassment in various settings. This shared experience creates a unique bond among women who have faced similar challenges in the workplace. However, the plight of foster children is often overlooked. We find it difficult to confront the uncomfortable truth of a broken system that punishes impoverished families while placing children at greater risk.
I fear that this silence will perpetuate the untold stories of these children. While movements like #TimesUp and #MeToo gain momentum and support, we must ask ourselves: what can we do to elevate the voices of those who are most at risk? Some individual states are considering measures like the Child Victims Act in New York, which is a positive step, but it’s still far from a comprehensive solution for all affected children.
Hashtags and localized legislation may serve as a starting point for a much-needed broader dialogue. Educating ourselves on the facts is equally crucial. Instead of turning away from the heartbreaking stories of sexual abuse within the foster care system, we should actively seek out the truth and leverage our privileges to amplify the voices of those who remain silent. For further insights on related topics, you can visit this blog post or explore resources on fertility treatments at March of Dimes. Additionally, for those interested in home insemination methods, Cryobaby provides authoritative information.
In summary, while the #TimesUp movement amplifies the voices of women, we must not forget the vulnerable children in foster care who desperately need our attention and support. It is essential to advocate for their rights and share their stories to ensure they are not forgotten.