Submitted by Elle Jordan, Aug 14, 2007 08:03

I honestly don't know children fall through the cracks in the system. Parents will say anything to stay out of trouble. Never take the word of a parent when child abuse is suspected. Go the distance and question the witnesses. There are innocent children being molested, beaten and raped every day in this country and we have been turning a "blind eye". Well maybe not all of us and that is why I am writing this today.

I will never understand how a child can fall through the cracks in the system. Parents who are abusive should have their children removed from that home. Never take the parents word for it. Talk to the neighbors, the teachers or the person that reported the abuse. The child never will. For some unknown reason whether it be fear or protection of a abusive parent, they simply stay quiet.

Our nationwide system is broken. Children are being molested, beaten, raped and yes, even murdered and still they may be in the care of an abuser. This is so very sad. These forgotten children are so forlorn and unhappy that they are likely to repeat the cycle of abuse when they get to be parents.

It is time for all Americans to stand up for these children. Everyone! We owe it to them. Start with your own state system. Child welfare is right up there with the top issues of the day. It is time that we all woke up and if you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, please report it to the proper authorities and then by all means STAY WITH IT. Make sure that justice is served and the child is protected. Your responsibility doesn't end with just a report of abuse, make sure it never happens again.

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