I am a parent who has been the primary caregiver for my uniquely abled child since birth. My oldest child and I have dedicated our lives to providing the love, care, and support that my youngest child needs. Long one short, the other parent abandoned my child four years ago but has recently reappeared and taken me to court.

In an unjust trial where I was unrepresented and unheard, custody rights were granted to the absentee parent. This decision was influenced by discrimination and racism rather than the best interests of my child. Now they plan to try and uproot my child from their familiar surroundings, adequate care, etcetera, taking them out of state where they live among strangers, and partner with two boys in a home I've never met. And with almost 900 or more sex offenders nearby. There’s so much more.

This is not just about my situation; it's about all parents fighting for their children's rights in biased legal systems. According to a study by the American Bar Association (ABA), self-represented litigants are at a significant disadvantage in court proceedings due to lack of legal knowledge or resources; most of all race and discrimination if you're doing it well and the best you can as a single parent. Only providing legal representation for families that have criminal cases not civil; I suppose because they make more money from it.

My truth is present in the lies and trickery used before and during the trial process, which further underscores the injustice done here. It is crucial that we overturn this unfair custody order as soon as possible for my child’s well-being.

As mentioned, this is not just about our family; this is about the thousands of families across the country who are dealing with similar situations every day. The current justice system on child custody often fails children even more with unique abilities by allowing neglectful parents back into their lives without considering the potential harm or disruption it may cause. Especially in their progress being reversed. 

According to Kids Count Data Center, in 2019 over 22 million children were living in single-parent households in the United States (Kids Count Data Center). Many of these children have special needs that require consistent care from people who understand their unique challenges.

We need reform that prioritizes the welfare of disabled children during custody battles. Judges should be required to consider factors such as abandonment history and ability to provide necessary care when making decisions on custody cases, especially cases involving disabled children.

Our plea is simple - protect our vulnerable kids from being forced into potentially harmful situations due to unfair legal processes. We urge decent lawmakers and truthful judges alike to prioritize the safety and well-being of any children, including those with unique abilities and health issues, for that matter, above all else, during custody disputes.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fairer treatment for kids, especially disabled kids, within our justice system!

We urge you to stand with us against such injustices that tear families apart based on prejudice rather than facts. Sign this petition today so we can fight for fair trials in family courts nationwide while protecting the parental rights of those who truly deserve it and have always been present!