Family Reunification Equity & Empowerment

This is an educational space designed to support individuals affected by the family policing system. The entries, stories, and posts shared here will be authored by those who have experienced this system firsthand in different states.

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Welcome to the Heart of the Movement:

Welcome to the official blog of the Family Reunification, Equity, & Empowerment Project, also known as F.R.E.E.! This space is dedicated to the most sacred work of all: keeping families whole and fighting for justice in the child welfare system.Who We Are

We are F.R.E.E., a community project of Starting Over, Inc., a mission-driven organization committed to transforming narratives, policies, and practices in pursuit of equity for all.

At the heart of our work is the conviction that every child deserves the opportunity to remain connected to safe and healthy parents whenever possible. Our team is composed of passionate advocates, trainers, and peer mentors, many of whom are system-impacted individuals who have experienced the child welfare system firsthand. This lived experience is our strength, guiding our dedication to compassionate and equitable support.

Who we are & What we do

The F.R.E.E. Project is highly focused on changing the systemic causes and conditions that lead to the placement of far too many vulnerable children in foster care or group homes. Our dedication and commitment is to preserving family ties, strengthening parent and child relationships, on top of addressing the systemic disparities that disproportionately impact families in the child welfare process. We aim to create more equitable and compassionate pathways to reunification and strengthening family stability.

We do this through a variety of empowering services, including:

    •    Providing individualized support through one-on-one coaching and advocacy.

    •    Facilitating weekly F.R.E.E. Hub meetings, which are open and accessible spaces for parents to gain peer-to-peer support and a sense of community.

    •    Equipping parents to create Social Biographies to share their experience and actively participate in court proceedings.

    •   By us offering court support and participation in Child and Family Team (CFT) meetings to ensure parents' voices are respected and heard.

What We Want to Achieve with This Blog

This blog is an extension of our mission “it is a space dedicated to empowerment and knowledge, not just another platform. Through our posts, we aim to:

    1    Educate and Demystify: Break down the complexities of the child welfare and dependency court systems so that parents and community members feel informed, not overwhelmed.

    2    Amplify Voices: Share the stories of resilience, strength, and success from F.R.E.E. parents, demonstrating that change and reunification are possible.

    3    Advocate for Equity: Highlight and analyze the systemic issues of inequity to push for real policy and practice changes that protect family wholeness.

    4    Foster Solidarity: Cultivate a powerful community where parents feel supported and know, without a doubt, that they are not alone. We believe that by loving and supporting each other, we have nothing to lose but our chains.

We look forward to building this movement with you, one post, one conversation, and one reunified family at a time.

In solidarity and love,

Shawneequa

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Today, we honor and celebrate the life, legacy, and birthday of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, famously known to the world as Malcolm X

Malcolm’s journey was one of profound transformation, unyielding courage, and ultimate sacrifice. He gave his life for the liberation, dignity, and self-determination of Black people, leaving behind a blueprint of what it means to relentlessly pursue truth, accountability, and justice.

While many focus solely on his fiery political rhetoric, one of the most vital—yet under-discussed—anchors of Malcolm X’s legacy was his deep reverence for the family unit.

The Sacrifice and the Journey

Malcolm’s understanding of the importance of family was forged in the fire of having his own systematically torn apart. As a child, after the brutal murder of his father, he watched the state deliberately fracture his family, placing his siblings into separate foster homes and sending his mother to an institution. He knew firsthand the trauma of a broken home, and he spent the rest of his life fighting against the societal forces that weaponize poverty, racism, and the justice system to separate parents from their children.

When Malcolm later built his own family with Sister Betty Shabazz, it became his sanctuary. His ultimate sacrifice wasn't just laying down his life; it was doing so knowing the immense risk it posed to the wife and daughters he loved so deeply.

Tying the Legacy to the Fight for the Family Unit

The fight Malcolm led is far from over. Today, the family unit is still "up against all odds," facing modern systemic pressures, cultural fractures, and institutional barriers that seek to separate, isolate, and weaken our homes.

To truly honor Malcolm X today, we must connect his message of self-determination to the preservation of our families:

Reunification as Resistance:

Malcolm taught us that a community is only as strong as its foundation. Healing relational fractures, bringing parents and children back together, and fighting against the forces that cause separation is a radical act of love and political resistance.

Accountability and Healing:

Malcolm never feared evolution. He showed us that no matter your past, you can transform. We preserve the family when we hold ourselves accountable, do the hard internal work, and heal generational trauma so our children don't have to carry it.

Protecting Our Sanctuaries:

In a world that can be harsh and unforgiving, the home must be a place of safety, identity, and unconditional support. Malcolm fought for the dignity of our people so that our children could grow up proud, protected, and whole.

"A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything."* — Malcolm X

Let us stand firmly for the healing, preservation, and reunification of our families. Today, we remember the brother, the husband, the father, and the leader. Happy Heavenly Birthday, Malcolm X. Your blueprint remains, and the marathon continues.

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Remembering & Honoring the Legacy of Paula Cooper: From Condemnation to Catalyst

To honor her journey while acknowledging the complexity of her life, we can focus on the transformation of a "discarded" child into a woman who became a catalyst for international human rights reform.

Paula Cooper’s life began in the shadows of systemic neglect, but her legacy rests in the light she forced the world to shine on the treatment of Black children. To honor her is to acknowledge the woman she became despite the child she was never allowed to be.

1. A Childhood Denied

Before she was a headline, Paula was a child surviving the unsurvivable. In Gary, Indiana, her early years were marked by a cycle of trauma that the state documented but failed to disrupt. Paula’s story reminds us that neglect is an active choice made by institutions. By the time she entered a courtroom at fifteen, she had already been failed by every safety net designed to catch her.

2. The Sentence That Shook the World

In 1985, Indiana’s decision to sentence a fifteen-year-old Black girl to death wasn’t just a legal ruling; it was a global moral crisis.

* The Global Response: Her case prompted a petition with 2 million signatures delivered to the United Nations.

* The Papal Plea: Pope John Paul II’s personal intervention highlighted the dissonance between American justice and basic human rights.

* The Legal Shift: Her struggle was a primary driver for the eventual 2005 Supreme Court ruling in Roper v. Simmons, which abolished the death penalty for minors nationwide.

3. Transformation in the Silence

Paula Cooper spent 27 years behind bars. In that time, she did what the system deemed impossible: she outgrew her worst mistake. She earned a college degree, became a lead tutor for other incarcerated women, and found a spiritual grounding that transformed her from a symbol of "disposability" into a woman of profound accountability.

4. A Truth Uncomfortable and Necessary

We honor Paula Cooper by refusing to look away from the statistics of her era. Her case highlighted the adultification of Black children—the sociological phenomenon where Black youth are viewed as older, more culpable, and less "innocent" than their white peers.

A Life of Weight and Worth

Paula’s release in 2013 was not a "happily ever after," but it was a testament to human resilience. She lived her final years carrying the immense weight of her past while navigating a world that had forgotten how to treat her as a person.

She was not just a defendant, and she was not just a statistic. Paula Cooper was a human being whose life forced America to reckon with its own conscience. To remember her is to commit to a world where "protection" isn't a privilege reserved for some children, but a right guaranteed to all.

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We are Honoring Peaches Baker, a rising new author!!!!

Part 1: Personal Journey & Life Story What is a challenge you’ve overcome that you are most proud of? One of the challenges I’m most proud of overcoming is rebuilding my life after experiencing incarceration. That season of my life could have defined me, but instead it refined me. I made a decision that my past would not dictate my future. Through faith, perseverance, and determination, I turned my pain into purpose and became a businesswoman, author, and community leader. Today, I use my story to inspire others to never give up on themselves. Who has been the most influential woman in your life, and what did you learn from her? The most influential women in my life have been the strong women in my family and community who showed me resilience. They taught me how to keep going even when life feels heavy. From them, I learned that strength doesn’t always look loud — sometimes it looks like quiet endurance, faith in hard times, and showing up for others no matter what.

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Part 2: Career, Work, & Leadership What does it mean to you to be a good leader? To me, being a good leader means serving others with integrity, compassion, and accountability. A true leader doesn’t just give instructions — they inspire, uplift, and create opportunities for others to grow. Leadership is about being an example, listening with empathy, and standing strong during difficult moments. What barriers have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them? I have faced barriers such as past mistakes, limited resources, and being underestimated. Instead of allowing those barriers to stop me, I used them as motivation. I invested in personal growth, education, and building meaningful relationships. I stayed focused on my purpose, and step by step, I built credibility through my work ethic and dedication to helping others.

⸻ Part 3: Reflection on Womanhood & Community What is the power of finding and building a supportive community, and how have you done that in your own life? There is incredible power in having a supportive community. It reminds you that you are not alone and that your journey matters. I’ve built my community through my work in social services, my advocacy, my faith, and by sharing my story openly. By being transparent about my journey, I’ve connected with people who uplift, encourage, and strengthen one another.

When you think about “Women’s History Month,” what story, voice, or achievement should be amplified more? I believe the stories that should be amplified more are those of everyday women who quietly change lives — mothers, caregivers, mentors, community workers, and survivors. Not all heroes are famous, but many women make history every day through their resilience, sacrifices, and commitment to building stronger communities.

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What is a core memory from your childhood that shaped who you are today?

One core memory that shaped who I am today happened when I was 17 years old and my grandfather was diagnosed with colon cancer. During the beginning of my senior year of high school, I helped my grandmother care for him. My sister and I would walk four miles to my grandmother’s house so we could help my grandfather get up the stairs, get into bed, and spend as much time with him as possible.

During that time, I realized that I wanted my life to be centered around helping people. My grandfather was a pastor, and throughout my life I watched how he helped anyone he encountered, no questions asked. His compassion and willingness to serve others left a lasting impression on me and helped shape the woman I am today.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life, and what did you learn from her?

The most influential woman in my life was my mother. She always taught me to stand up for what I believe in, no matter how many people tried to discourage me. She reminded me to move with integrity and to never change who I am just to please others.

My mother was a very intelligent and strong woman, and she often reminded me that sometimes I may have to stand alone but that it’s okay because God is always with me. Those lessons continue to guide me in both my personal life and my work today.

What does it mean to you to be a good leader?

To me, a good leader is someone who leads by example and never compromises their team just to look good. Strong leaders understand that they are only as strong as the people around them.

A good leader also takes the time to listen and consider different perspectives before making decisions. Leadership is not about being in front; it’s about supporting your team, uplifting others, and creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

What is one thing you would never ask anyone on your team to do that you haven't or wouldn't do yourself?

I would never ask anyone on my team to do something deceitful, dishonest, or illegal. Integrity is essential in leadership; leaders should always model the values and standards they expect from others.

What lessons do you believe women are especially poised to teach us?

Women are incredibly resilient and possess a deep sense of empathy for the people and communities they care about. Women often teach us the importance of love, compassion, and perseverance in the face of challenges.

Whether in their homes, workplaces, or communities, women consistently demonstrate how to overcome obstacles while continuing to support others. Their ability to bring people together and create environments where others can thrive is a powerful example of strength and leadership.

When you think about Women's History Month, what story, voice, or achievement do you feel should be amplified more?

I believe the stories of women who have overcome barriers while leading in their communities, workplaces, schools, and families should be amplified more. Women often carry tremendous responsibility while continuing to show resilience, strength, and leadership.

The everyday contributions women make often quietly and without recognition deserve acknowledgment and celebration.

Closing Reflection

My life experiences have taught me that service, compassion, and integrity can shape not only who we become but also the impact we have on others. Those lessons continue to guide me in my work as a social worker and advocate supporting families impacted by incarceration.

Through my work, I strive to uplift voices that are too often unheard and to help create pathways for healing, opportunity, and justice for families navigating difficult circumstances.

Being honored during Women’s History Month reminds me that the strength and resilience of the women who came before me continues to guide the work I do today.

I hope the work I do continues to honor the legacy of the women who taught me to lead with compassion, courage, and faith.

Thank you again for this recognition.

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🌺 A FREE Project Tribute to Hydeia Broadbent

Honoring Her Legacy During Women’s History Month

During Women’s History Month, we uplift the women whose courage reshaped the world—not through titles or institutions, but through truth-telling, lived experience, and a refusal to be silent in the face of injustice. Among these powerful women stands Hydeia Broadbent, a trailblazer whose life’s work transformed public understanding of HIV/AIDS and challenged the stigma that harmed so many families.

Hydeia Broadbent was born into a world that was not ready for her brilliance, her honesty, or her fight. Diagnosed with HIV at a time when fear overshadowed compassion, she stepped into activism as a child—long before she ever had the chance to choose a quiet life. At just six years old, she began speaking publicly about her diagnosis, becoming one of the youngest and most influential HIV/AIDS activists of her generation. Her voice reached millions, from living rooms across America to national stages, including The Oprah Winfrey Show and the Republican National Convention.

But Hydeia’s activism was not without sacrifice. She gave up the privacy most children are protected with. She carried the emotional weight of educating a nation while navigating her own health challenges. She endured stigma, scrutiny, and the burden of representing a crisis that society preferred to ignore.

And still—she showed up. She told the truth. She saved lives.

Her courage forced the world to confront the humanity of children born with HIV. She reminded us that stigma is a form of violence, and silence is a form of abandonment. Hydeia’s message was simple, powerful, and revolutionary: “AIDS is something that happened to me, but it does not define who I am.”

For the FREE Project, Hydeia’s legacy resonates deeply. Her life reflects the same values we fight for every day: dignity, truth, family preservation, and the right for every child to grow up in a world that sees their full humanity. Hydeia understood what it meant to be judged by systems, misunderstood by society, and forced to navigate institutions that often lacked compassion. Yet she transformed her lived experience into advocacy that protected others.

Her work mirrors the heart of FREE’s mission—lifting the voices of those most impacted, challenging harmful narratives, and building a world where families are supported rather than punished. Hydeia’s activism reminds us that storytelling is a form of resistance, and lived experience is a form of expertise.

She lived far beyond the five years doctors predicted, reaching 39 years of life, love, and leadership. Every year she lived was an act of defiance. Every speech she gave was an act of liberation. Every young person who learned from her is part of her legacy.

Today, we honor Hydeia Broadbent as:

A warrior for truth

A protector of children and families affected by HIV/AIDS

A pioneer who shifted national consciousness

A woman whose courage continues to ripple through generations

Her legacy lives on in every advocate who speaks up, every family who refuses to be shamed, and every young person who learns that their story has power.

During Women’s History Month, the FREE Project proudly uplifts Hydeia Broadbent—a woman whose life reminds us that justice work is not always chosen, but it is always necessary. May her memory continue to guide us as we fight for a world where every child, every parent, and every family is met with compassion, dignity, and the chance to thrive.

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Honoring this powerful woman for Women’s History Month

Who has been the most influential woman in your life, and what did you learn from her?

Many women have influenced my life, but currently, I am most inspired by my grandmother, Louise. She exemplified quiet but unmistakable strength, leading by her resilience, faith, and unwavering dedication to family.

From her, I learned that leadership begins at home. She taught me that real strength is not about recognition or titles, but about showing up consistently for the people who depend on you. She demonstrated how to face life's challenges with dignity, courage, and grace, even when circumstances were difficult.

One of the greatest lessons she passed down was the importance of building something that lasts beyond yourself. In today's leadership landscape, this means creating lasting impact through community service, mentorship, and fostering future leaders, emphasizing the timeless value of legacy.

Her example shaped the woman I am today. It influences how I lead, how I serve my community, and how I try to live a life that honors the sacrifices of the women who came before me.

What is one thing that has brought or given you the greatest satisfaction or fulfillment in your life?

Serving others has genuinely enriched my life in countless ways. Whether through my time in the military, nurturing my children, supporting my community, or amplifying underrepresented voices, giving back has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose.

There's something incredibly rewarding about knowing my efforts contribute to a larger mission. Watching young people thrive, witnessing families grow stronger, and helping communities evolve bring me a joy that far surpasses any title or accolade.

For me, true fulfillment lies in recognizing that the journey I embark on isn't just about my own achievements; it's also about the doors I can open for future generations. I'm excited about the impact we can all make together!

What are your greatest strengths as a leader?

One of my greatest strengths as a leader is my unwavering commitment to service. My military experience has instilled in me the ability to remain focused and composed under pressure, make decisions grounded in integrity, and prioritize both the mission and the individuals I serve.

Additionally, I value the ability to listen and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Effective leadership goes beyond just providing direction; it involves understanding the unique needs, experiences, and perspectives of those we lead.

Resilience is another defining quality of mine. I recognize that leadership often entails navigating challenges, facing criticism, and dealing with uncertainty. Through these experiences, I've learned to stay rooted in my values, focus on solutions, and approach each situation with purpose. These qualities enable me to lead with strength and empathy, driving meaningful change in the communities I am passionate about serving.

Why is it important to have more women in leadership roles today?

Having more women in leadership positions is not just important, it's essential for creating a truly representative and vibrant community. Women bring unique perspectives and rich life experiences that enhance decision-making and foster inclusion. Their insights lead to well-rounded solutions that benefit everyone.

Since women often play central roles in families, education, healthcare, and community life, their voices are crucial in shaping policies that directly affect our daily lives. Including women in these conversations ensures that issues impacting families and communities are addressed with the thoughtfulness and effectiveness they deserve.

Moreover, seeing women excel in leadership roles sends a powerful message to the next generation. It shows young girls that their opinions matter and that they possess the potential to lead, innovate, and shape a brighter future. As more women step into leadership, they redefine what it means to lead and pave the way for others to follow, creating a cycle of empowerment and opportunity. Together, we can build a future that's inclusive and inspiring for all!

When you think about "Women's History Month," what story, voice, or achievement do you feel should be amplified more?

As we celebrate Women's History Month, one incredible voice that truly deserves our attention is Sojourner Truth. Born into the harsh realities of slavery, she emerged as a powerful advocate for both abolition and women's rights, making a profound impact on American history.

What makes Sojourner's journey so inspiring is not just her bravery but her unwavering commitment to speak up in a time when women, especially Black women, were overlooked. In her iconic "Ain't I a Woman?" speech, she boldly challenged stereotypes of weakness, shining a light on the incredible resilience of women, particularly women of color, who faced immense struggles without proper recognition.

Sojourner's voice is a vital reminder that women's history is woven with stories of determination. It showcases the relentless spirit of those who fearlessly demanded dignity, equality, and humanity long before it became a mainstream conversation.

I am passionate about amplifying her legacy by sharing her story through community talks, mentoring young women, and supporting initiatives that promote equality. These actions embody leadership and inspire others to advocate for justice and brighter opportunities for future generations.

What lessons do you believe women are especially poised to teach us?

Women shine as remarkable examples of resilience, collaboration, and compassion in leadership roles! Throughout history, they have gracefully navigated barriers while nurturing families, fostering communities, and making invaluable contributions to society. This journey cultivates a profound understanding of perseverance and adaptability.

Moreover, women emphasize the power of collaborative leadership. Many lead by bringing people together, actively listening to diverse voices, and building consensus, thereby strengthening our communities and creating solutions that reflect everyone's needs.

The most inspiring takeaway is how women demonstrate that strength and empathy can coexist beautifully. Their ability to lead with both determination and compassion shows us that effective leadership goes beyond authority; it's about responsibility, care, and a heartfelt commitment to uplifting others as we reach for new heights together. We all need to celebrate this sacred journey and the positive impact women continue to make in the world!

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In honor of Women’s History Month

We begin 2026 by honoring three women whose resilience proves that reunification is always possible. Their journeys remind us that our greatest priority must always be preserving the sacred bond of family

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A Legacy of Moral Courage: Honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson

As we reflect on the monumental legacy of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr., we aren't just looking at a resume of civil rights victories; we are looking at the blueprint for the "Rainbow Coalition"—the radical idea that every marginalized voice deserves a seat at the table.

For over six decades, Jackson has been a drum major for justice. From the front lines of Selma to the halls of international diplomacy, his life’s work has been defined by a singular, unwavering belief: "Keep Hope Alive."

The Fight for the "Invisibles"

Jackson’s brilliance lay in his ability to see the connections between different forms of oppression. He understood that whether you were a worker in the Rust Belt, a farmer in the South, or a family seeking a better life at the border, the struggle for human dignity was the same.

The Connection to Family Separation

The struggle against family separation is, at its core, a struggle for the sanctity of the home, a cause Jackson championed throughout his career. Here is how his legacy speaks to the modern crisis of separated families:

* Universal Human Rights: Jackson often argued that human rights are not granted by governments but are inherent to our existence. Separating children from parents is a fundamental violation of the "moral laws" he preached.

* The Power of Presence: Just as Jackson famously negotiated the release of hostages and prisoners of war to return them to their families, he taught us that bringing people home is the highest form of diplomacy.

* Coalition Building: He showed us that the fight for migrant families isn't just a "border issue"—it's a civil rights issue. By linking the struggles of the Black diaspora with those of immigrant communities, he paved the way for a unified front against policies that tear households apart.

> "Our children are not just our future; they are our present. How we treat the most vulnerable among us—the child at the border, the family in the shadows—is the true measure of our nation’s soul."

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Keeping the Torch Lit

Rev. Jackson taught us that progress is not a straight line; it is a constant, persistent push against the "closeness of the door." As we honor him, we do so not just with words, but by continuing the work of reunification, empathy, and justice.

He fought so that no mother would have to cry for a child lost to a system, and no father would be a stranger to his own kin.

Keep hope alive. Keep the families together. Keep pushing.

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Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way

Mission Possible II is more than a title — it’s a declaration that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision is not a relic of the past but a living blueprint for the work we are called to do right now. His commitment to justice, equality, and service offers a moral compass for confronting one of today’s most persistent and overlooked civil rights crises: the inequity of the child welfare system.

Carrying Forward MLK’s Vision

Dr. King taught that injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere. His philosophy of nonviolence was not passive; it was a disciplined, courageous insistence that systems built on harm can be transformed through truth-telling, collective power, and radical love. That same spirit animates the movement to challenge the racialized, punitive practices of CPS — a system that disproportionately surveils, separates, and traumatizes Black, Indigenous, and low-income families.

Where Dr. King confronted segregation, we confront family policing. Where he exposed the violence of Jim Crow, we expose the violence of unnecessary removals, biased investigations, and the criminalization of poverty. Where he called for the Beloved Community, we build it — one family, one neighborhood, one act of solidarity at a time.

Naming the Injustice

The inequity of the CPS system is not accidental. It reflects the same structural racism, economic inequality, and punitive logic that Dr. King fought against. Families are too often punished for conditions created by poverty, denied meaningful support, and silenced by systems that claim to protect children while destabilizing the very communities children need to thrive.

Mission Possible II insists that this is not inevitable. It is a system created by people — and therefore a system that can be changed by people.

Building the Beloved Community

Dr. King described the Beloved Community as a world where:

Injustice ends because communities refuse to tolerate it

Compassion replaces violence in all its forms — physical, emotional, bureaucratic

Love becomes the prevailing force, shaping policy, practice, and human relationships

Mission Possible II translates that vision into action by:

1. Centering Families as Experts

Honoring lived experience as a source of truth, leadership, and transformation.

2. Practicing Nonviolent Systems Change

Using advocacy, organizing, and narrative power to confront harmful policies without replicating harm.

3. Replacing Surveillance with Support

Shifting from punitive responses to community-rooted care, healing, and material resources.

4. Building Collective Power

Uniting parents, youth, advocates, and allies across race, class, and geography to demand a just future.

5. Creating Safety Without State Violence

Developing community-led safety strategies that protect children while preserving family bonds.

A Nation United the Nonviolent Way

Mission Possible II calls us to imagine — and build — a nation where families are not torn apart but held together; where systems do not punish vulnerability but respond with dignity; where justice is not an aspiration but a lived reality.

This is the work of our time. This is how we honor Dr. King. This is how we create the Beloved Community — not someday, but now.

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The Adoption Safe Families Act Hinders Birth Parents From Regaining Their Parental Rights

To further promote adoptions, ASFA stipulates that courts can terminate the rights of birth parents whose children are in foster care within

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Christmas, Kwanzaa, and the Power of Family Guidance

As the year comes to a close, many of us turn toward traditions that bring comfort, connection, and meaning. Christmas lights begin to glow across our neighborhoods, and Kwanzaa preparations remind us of the strength found in culture and community. But for families navigating the Child Protective Services (CPS) system, the holiday season often looks and feels very different.

At F.R.E.E. (Family Reunification, Equity & Empowerment), we walk alongside families who are fighting to stay connected. This time of year offers a powerful reminder of why our work matters — and why family guidance, cultural grounding, and community support are essential to keeping families whole.

The Holiday Season Through the Eyes of Families Impacted by CPS

For many parents and children involved with CPS, the holidays bring a mix of emotions:

Joy in the moments they are able to share

Grief for traditions interrupted

Hope for reunification

Fear about the future

Determination to complete case plans and rebuild

Supervised visits replace family gatherings. Court deadlines overshadow celebrations. Parents often feel judged rather than supported. And children feel the absence of home more deeply than ever.

This is why our advocacy is so critical. Families deserve compassion, not condemnation. They deserve support, not separation.

Christmas: A Season of Compassion and Restoration

Christmas is rooted in the belief that light can break through even the darkest circumstances. For families navigating CPS, that light often shows up in small but meaningful ways:

- A parent reading a holiday story during a supervised visit

- A child receiving a handmade gift from their mother or father

- A moment of connection that reminds everyone that love persists

These moments matter. They remind families that they are more than their case file. They remind us that healing is possible when communities choose compassion over judgment.

Kwanzaa: A Cultural Blueprint for Strength

Kwanzaa’s seven principles — the Nguzo Saba — offer a framework that aligns deeply with the needs of families impacted by CPS:

Umoja (Unity): Keeping families connected

Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): Ensuring parents have a voice

Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): Communities supporting reunification

Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): Recognizing that poverty is not neglect

Nia (Purpose): Centering healing and growth

Kuumba (Creativity): Preserving traditions even in difficult circumstances

Imani (Faith): Believing in the possibility of restoration

These principles guide our work year-round. They remind us that culture is not an accessory — it is a source of strength, identity, and resilience.

The Role of Family Guidance

Family guidance is the heartbeat of reunification. It shows up in many forms:

- Elders passing down cultural traditions

- Advocates helping parents understand their rights

- Community members offering support without judgment

- Parents journaling, reflecting, and rebuilding

- Children holding onto hope

Guidance is not about perfection. It is about presence. It is about ensuring families are not navigating the system alone.

Our Commitment Moving Into the New Year

As we honor Christmas and Kwanzaa, we reaffirm our commitment to:

- Challenging harmful CPS practices

- Supporting parents through reunification

- Centering cultural identity and community strength

- Elevating the voices of those with lived experience

- Fighting for policies that keep families together

Families deserve more than survival. They deserve stability, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive.

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A Message to the Families We Serve

To every parent fighting for your children:

We see your strength.

We honor your resilience.

We believe in your ability to heal, grow, and reunify.

You are not alone — not during the holidays, and not in the year ahead.

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December is an interesting month because many people celebrate holidays during this month. Personally, I grew up in a household where we celebrated Christmas. After entering into the foster care system for the first time at age 11, every Christmas I spent in the foster care system was just another day. It was no longer a day I looked forward to, and Christmas Eve was definitely not any night I wanted to stay up for. In fact, Christmas just became this day surrounded by people I wasn’t related to and was only kind of cool if some organization sponsored me, so I could have Christmas gifts and some sense of normalcy on that day. The loss of familial connection on holidays during the month of December didn’t end there.

When my children were taken from me after my divorce, I was alienated from them for several years. Celebrations on days like Christmas continued to not exist for me, but it was even worse because it did not exist for my children, either. For the majority of my daughters’ childhood, I was not with them on Christmas morning, and they were deprived of the joy that comes with being and feeling seen and loved by their mom. Reflecting back on my childhood before my mom got sick and I went into foster care, it always felt so good to believe my mom heard me when I had a gift (even if it was the only gift I received for Christmas that year) I specifically asked for. For many years, my daughters were deprived of experiencing the wholesome feeling that comes with being heard by their mom, but my daughters aren’t the only children who missed experiencing this joy of having their worth validated, and I am not the only parent who has dealt with being separated from their children.

Separation doesn’t have to mean extinction. Although it is hard to be separated from our children, especially during certain seasons and occasions, we still exist, and so do they. No matter the circumstances surrounding the separations from our children, or the holidays we may or may not celebrate, the greatest gift we can always give to our children is a parent they can be proud of. No parent is perfect, we have all made mistakes, and our children may not currently understand how the improvements we make in our lives can be a way to show them how much we love them, but that’s the reason why we should never stop trying to be the best version of ourselves for our children.

As we prepare for the start of a new year, now is the best time to think about all of the ways and things we have done to show up for our children, to make our children feel loved, and to make our children proud of us. Here are some self-reflective questions to ask yourself. What did you do to help improve the relationship with your children or to help others realize why your children still benefit by having you in their lives? If you spent time with your child(ren) this year and they were asked to say one thing about how they interacted with you this year, what would they say? If you didn’t get to spend time with your child(ren) this year, what would you want them to say about their interaction with you? What is one thing you’re proud of accomplishing this year? What is one thing you want to accomplish or improve next year? Every day is a new opportunity to think about how we want our children to know us, how we can show up for them, and to, most importantly, think about how we need to show up for ourselves, so we can be the greatest gift to our children. Here’s to wishing you a phenomenal 2026! Please own each day.

About the Author:

Lakievia “Lucky” Johnson, MBA, PMP is a mother of two, a certified Project Management Professional, a doctoral candidate earning a Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree, a child advocate, a parent advocate, and a foster care system survivor. Through her work with other organizations and as the founder of her own nonprofit, Freedom From Foster Care a Nonprofit Organization, Lakievia defends the rights of children, parents, and families. The mission of her nonprofit, specifically, is to eliminate generational foster care by ensuring parents who were once in the foster care system are equipped with the skills, support, and knowledge to protect their parental rights, raise their children, and keep their children out of foster care.

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Lakievia Johnson

I put time on my calendar to spend at least 30 minutes a week reading articles from The Imprint. Today I read this one and just thanked God

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Dear Families,

As Thanksgiving approaches, a holiday meant to gather loved ones around the table, I want to pause and acknowledge the profound pain of those who cannot be with their children this year. The absence of their laughter, their presence, and the traditions you hold dear leaves a void that no words can fully mend.

Please know that your grief is seen, your love is honored, and your strength is deeply respected. Being apart from your children does not diminish the bond you share—it is a bond that endures across distance and circumstance, a bond that no system can sever.

On this day of gratitude, I encourage you to find gentle ways to honor your connection:

• Light a candle in their name, a symbol of your unwavering love.

• Prepare a dish they enjoy, keeping their spirit present at your table.

• Write them a letter or prayer, sending your words across the unseen bridge between you.

• Surround yourself with community—friends, family, or faith groups who can help carry the weight of this day.

It is natural to feel sorrow, anger, or emptiness. Give yourself permission to grieve, but also remember that this chapter is not the whole story. Your resilience, your devotion, and your hope are testaments to the strength of family.

Though this Thanksgiving may feel incomplete, your children carry your love within them. The day will come when you can share a table again. Until then, may you find moments of peace, however small, and may your heart be comforted by the knowledge that love endures—even across distance.

With compassion and solidarity,

The F.R.E.E. Project Families in Texas, California, Tennessee, Kentucky, New York, & Pennsylvania

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🕊️ A Heartfelt Message for Families Navigating the CPS System This Thanksgiving

To the families who find themselves facing the unimaginable—being apart from their children during a holiday meant for togetherness—I want to acknowledge the depth of your pain. Thanksgiving is a day that celebrates family, warmth, and shared love, and the absence of your children can feel like an unbearable void.

Please know that your grief is valid. Missing the laughter, the traditions, and the simple joy of being together is a wound that words cannot fully heal. Yet, even in this season of separation, your love for your children remains unbroken. That love is a bond stronger than distance, stronger than circumstance, and it continues to reach them in ways unseen.

🌟 Ways to Hold On to Hope and Connection:

• Honor your bond in spirit: Light a candle, cook their favorite dish, or write a letter to them. These acts keep your connection alive.

• Create a ritual of love: Even if you cannot be together physically, set aside a moment to speak their names, share memories, or pray for them.

• Lean on community: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or faith groups who can help carry the weight of this day.

• Give yourself grace: It’s okay to feel sadness, anger, or emptiness. Allow yourself to grieve, but also remind yourself that this chapter is not the whole story.

Though this Thanksgiving may feel incomplete, your children carry your love within them. The day will come when you can share a table again, and until then, your resilience and devotion are testaments to the strength of family.

You are not alone in this journey. Your love matters, your pain matters, and your hope matters. May you find moments of peace, however small, and may your heart be comforted by the knowledge that love endures—even across distance.