A System Failing Our Most Vulnerable

The System's Failure

In Massachusetts, a disturbing trend is unfolding. Children under the care of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) are dying, and the system appears to be failing them. A'Zella Ortiz is the latest victim in a series of tragedies that have rocked the state. Her death, like others, raises critical questions about how the system is protecting—or failing to protect—children in its custody.

Federal Laws and Their Dark Side

Federal laws significantly influence this issue. They incentivize states to keep children at home, even when safety is compromised. Foster care is costly, so the government rewards states for keeping families together. However, this approach has a dangerous downside: it can leave children in perilous situations, as seen in A'Zella's case.

A Pattern of Tragedy

A'Zella's story is not isolated. Harmony Montgomery and David Almond are two other children who died while under DCF supervision. All three children had disabilities, making them even more vulnerable. The system is supposed to protect them, but it's falling short.

Government Inaction

At a recent press conference, the Office of the Child Advocate evaded questions about the Harmony Commission bill. This bill could prevent future tragedies, but it was sent for "further study"—often a euphemism for being ignored. Meanwhile, seven children with DCF involvement have died violent deaths in the past 12 years.

A Broader Systemic Failure

The problem extends beyond DCF social workers. It's a systemic issue involving every branch of government. The Friends of Children organization has been advocating for change, but their calls have gone unheeded.

A Call for Justice

It's time for action. The U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division must intervene. The lives of our children depend on it.