Before They Come for Me and Mine (Or You and Yours), Spreading Word About Justina Pelletier

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out-- Because I was not a Socialist. 
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out-- Because I was not a Trade Unionist. 
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out-- Because I was not a Jew. 
Then they came for me--and there was no one left to speak for me.

I can not help but to think of these famous words when I read about Justina Pelletier.  The reported story of what has happened to her and her family is horrific.  A frightening abuse of rights that makes moves me to do something I rearely do here on Training Happy Hearts, which is post twice in one day.  And to do that for something I don't think I have never done here:  Border on getting political with a "hot button" topic.

As background, let me share that my children learned about Rosa Parks last week while doing a community play.  As they rounded the audience with handmade picket signs encouraging, "Boycot the bus!  Boycott the bus!" we all laughed and smiled at their re-enactment of yesteryear, yet, I for one, was touched by how one woman(and her colleagues, of course!), made such a dramatic difference in fighting for rights.  Obviously, during the real Rosa Parks story, a serious abuse of rights was being righted and it was no laughing matter.  Today, as I reflect on the reported abuse of power that Justina Pelletier and her family face, I draw a parellel.  It may not be an entire race of people being abused today, but the abuse is intolerable nonetheless. I cannot help but to "stand" here on my blog today, then, shouting, "JUSTICE!"

For those who do not know what I am talking about, go ahead and read these stories:

• Parents fight for custody of Justina Pelletier after Mass. hospital locks her in psych ward

• Advocates Fight for Justina Pelletier, Teen Held by State in Psych Ward

• How can you support Justina Pelletier?

For those that do, please join me in raising awareness, spreading word and advocating for reported abuses to end if they are true, with Children's Hospital Boston and the State of MA not only "coming clean", but making whatever amends they can and adjusting future policies so no other family has to go through such a horrific experience.

Truly, I am struck almost speechless by the horror of Justina and her family's plight as reported in the articles I have written.  Almost, but not quite.  For, before "they come for me", I want to do my part to speak out.  To spread word.  To push for right and light to shine.  I am doing so here today, and in person with many people I meet in my daily interactions, and on Facebook, and through email.

We have more than newspapers and picket signs today.  How can we best use them to advocate for rights?  How can we speak out before "they" come for us?

Until Justina's case is resolved, my family and I will not be using Children's services again.  How about you?  How can you stand firm, speaking out and acting before they come for you and yours?