CAS Survivors March

May 19, 2006 permalink

Following a foster-care survivor's march in Thunder Bay, CAS Executive Director Rob Richardson, says things have changed over the years since the tragic events that happened to these victims. Indeed they have, though not for the better. The systematic abuse of aboriginals has changed to a capricious system sometimes abusive, sometimes not, now covering all ethnic groups.

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Survivors march for foster care abuse

Thunder Bay's Source, Web Posted: 5/19/2006 5:41:46 PM

Survivors came together Friday to protest what they say is the ongoing abuse of children in the foster care system.

They staged the first annual Walk for Survivors and Abuse in Foster Care starting at the Thunder Bay Children's Aid Society office and ending at the offices of MPP Michael Gravelle and MP Joe Comuzzi. Coordinators say they hope to raise awareness about what actually happens in foster care.

Victims of child rape and abuse gathered at the Children's Aid Society to tell their story. Survivors say there are many cases where children have been raped and abused in foster care. Coordinators talked to the executive director of the Children's Aid Society, and the group then walked to Michael Gravelle's office to ask questions of the government. Survivor Debi Okane says she's not doing this because she's angry or for revenge.

Survivors released balloons into the air, symbolizing releasing their pain and emotions. The executive director of the Children's Aid Society, Rob Richardson, says things have changed over the years since the tragic events that happened to these victims. Richardson says he is unsure of what kind of resolution the survivors are looking for. MPP Michael Gravelle says he feels it's his responsibility to tell their story.

In a symbolic gesture, a survivor gave Gravelle her shoe so he could take a 'walk in her shoes.'

Source: Thunder Bay Source