Families in Hawaii are raising urgent concerns about the child welfare system following a recent public hearing held by the Senate Committee on Judiciary. Testimonies revealed alarming accounts of children being removed from their homes without proper legal procedures, leading to severe consequences for both the children and their families.

One mother, who identified herself as part of the 81% of families affected by unjust removals, shared her harrowing experience of having her child taken away without a court order or warrant. She described a situation where she was misled by a state agent, believing her son was being taken to a treatment center, only to find out he was driven away and her custody was signed away within minutes. This incident, she claimed, resulted in lasting trauma for her family.

The mother recounted that her son suffered neglect and abuse while in foster care, losing significant weight and facing emotional distress. She alleged that the state failed to protect her child, despite her repeated pleas for help. Her testimony highlighted systemic failures, including the actions of Attorney General Sonia Toma, who she accused of signing false documents under penalty of perjury, claiming her son was safe while he was actually in danger.

Other supporters echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for reform in the child welfare system to prevent further tragedies. They called for accountability and transparency in the processes that govern child removals, urging lawmakers to take immediate action to protect vulnerable families.

The hearing underscored the critical need for a thorough review of child welfare practices in Hawaii, as families continue to suffer from the repercussions of a system that many believe is failing them. As discussions continue, advocates hope that these testimonies will lead to meaningful changes that prioritize the safety and well-being of children and their families.