My daughter Layni, A non-verbal/special needs child who cannot speak for herself,  was subjected to unspeakable abuse, and because she cannot verbalize her trauma, justice is denied to her and countless other children like her. How is it fair that the lack of verbal evidence hinders our children's rights to justice?

Every child, regardless of their ability to express themselves through words, deserves to be heard. Non-verbal does not mean invisible. These children experience pain, fear, and trauma just like anyone else, and their voices must be heard loud and clear. They should not be further victimized by a system that demands physical evidence before it listens to them.

Statistics from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) show that children with disabilities are at greater risk of abuse and neglect. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, 2018 report, they are roughly 3 times more likely to be abused than their peers without disabilities. Yet, they are less likely to receive justice due to communication barriers and a lack of understanding by authorities.

These children deserve better protection, and their stories deserve to be told and believed based on compassionate investigation and understanding. We must push for legislative change that addresses these inequities and provides greater support to families and children who cannot speak for themselves. We need you to join us in this fight. Stand with us to demand that law enforcement and judicial practices evolve to protect all children. Sign this petition to support justice for non-verbal, special needs, or scared children. Together, we can be the voice they desperately need.