Last night I watched “Rabbit Proof Fence”, a movie about the systematic kidnapping by the Australian government of aboriginal children that occurred for an entire century – between 1869 and 1970. I remarked to my wife that it seemed WWII marked a change in western history, how could such an arrogant policy have continued through to 1970. My wife reminded me of the recent abduction of 460 children by the State of Texas for reasons that are not much different from the reasons that led to the “Stolen Generations” in Australia.
I know little of the details of what happened leading to CPS taking children from the FLDS compound. I don't condone behavior that is harmful to children. However, one of the concerns of CPS (Child Protective Services) was that there were nine girls aged 16-17 who were listed as “wives” in the groups records. According to Texas law, the minimum legal age for marriage is 14, with parental consent. While you and I might think 14 is crazy, that's what the law says. If the speed limit is 70mph, should you get a ticket for driving 70mph? If we consider marriage before 18 (or whatever age we choose) to be harmful to children, we should change the law, not abduct those who are complying with it.
Texas is a great state, much more respectful of personal freedom than many states are. An appeals court has ruled at least some of the children returned. CPS undoubtably think that they are doing the right thing. But it is the very meaning of freedom that people can make stupid decisions and suffer the consequences. Unless there is clear, sever and imminent danger, neither CPS nor any other agency or organization has any moral authority to take a child from its parent.
Raid on FLDS compound in Texas:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/052308dntexfldsappeal.1b22ef5f.html
Marriage Age Requirements:
http://law.jrank.org/pages/11840/Marriage-Age-Requirements.html
Stolen Generations in Australia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stolen_Generation
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