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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

EndNotes

Listen to me!

The Spokane River roars over the Monroe Street Falls Wednesday June 15, 2011. In the background are the Spokane County Courthouse and Public Health buildings.   (Christopher Anderson/The Spokesman-Review)
The Spokane River roars over the Monroe Street Falls Wednesday June 15, 2011. In the background are the Spokane County Courthouse and Public Health buildings. (Christopher Anderson/The Spokesman-Review)

The foster children in our state are not being heard when it comes to the courtroom. No court-appointed attorney for our foster kids. An advocacy group rates Washington state 48th - that is right: 48th  - when it comes to giving our vulnerable foster children a legal voice.  

Senate Bill 6126 would change this practice and help children understand their rights when deciding where and with whom they live. These children deserve a voice.

With so much rhetoric about creating a future for our children, should we not demonstrate concern too, about creating a safe present for them? Offering appropriate care means giving foster children a voice in the courtroom, helping them understand possibilities and legal choices. When a child lives in a safe and stable environment, they have much more time to enjoy their childhood and dream about their futures.

(S-R photo)



Spokesman-Review features writer Rebecca Nappi, along with writer Catherine Johnston of Olympia, Wash., discuss here issues facing aging boomers, seniors and those experiencing serious illness, dying, death and other forms of loss.