In this episode, Sonia and Classie sit down with Brian and Tiana, a military couple whose lives were upended when they became involved with the child welfare system. Despite their deep family values rooted in faith, education, and resilience, they were forced to fight to keep their family together.

Through their story, we explore the systemic challenges Black families face, the racial biases embedded in child welfare practices, and the emotional toll of being judged by a system that claims to protect but often does the opposite.

Brian and Tiana share their journey of resilience, the support of their community, and the lessons they’ve learned about advocating for their family. Their story reminds us of the power of standing strong in the face of injustice and the urgent need for systemic change.

Join us for this powerful conversation that sheds light on the intersection of family, race, and child welfare.

In this episode of Torn, Sonia and Classie sit down with Dr. Ange Puig, a psychologist with 35+ years of experience, to unpack the role of trauma in the child welfare system. Why are psychological evaluations so common, and do they actually help families?

Dr. Puig challenges the current enforcement-based model and calls for a shift to a preventative, strength-based approach—one that recognizes the resilience of families, particularly those from Black and Brown communities.

Together, we discuss the lifelong impact of trauma, systemic racism, and how the child welfare system can be reimagined to center healing, community, and understanding. Whether you’re an advocate, caseworker, or someone passionate about social justice, this episode provides insight and practical steps toward change.

Alana Brown joins the podcast to discuss the role of culturally specific, trauma-informed advocacy in supporting Black women survivors.

She explores the intersections of domestic violence, child welfare, and systemic inequities, offering insights into how advocates can improve services for marginalized communities.

This conversation centers on empowering survivors and challenging traditional approaches to advocacy and care.

In this episode, Sonia Johnson, Esq. , Classie Colinet Esp., and Dr. Denise Johnson, discuss the realities of child removal in the child welfare system.

Dr. Johnson discusses the deep and lasting impact on children when they’re separated from their families, explaining how they lose not only their home but also their sense of trust and safety.

Dr. Johnson breaks down the psychological effects of removal, the challenges of rebuilding family bonds, and the systemic issues that complicate reunification.

This conversation sheds light on the importance of trauma-informed care and explores what we can do to better support children and families in these situations. Join us for an important discussion on family, resilience, and change.

In this episode Sonia and Classie continue their conversation with Shereen White, Director of Advocacy at Children's Rights and Kelis Houston, Executive Director of Village Arms who are pushing for change in the child welfare system. Kalis shares a behind-the-scenes look at the years of advocacy, legislative challenges, and community resilience that culminated in the ⁠Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act. ⁠This landmark legislation aims to protect Black families from systemic bias in child welfare, setting a higher standard of "active efforts" over "reasonable efforts" for caseworkers.

Join us as we unpack the hard-won victories, the sacrifices made, and the ongoing fight to dismantle systemic racism within child welfare.

In the Season 3 premiere, hosts Sonia Johnson and Classie Colinet sit down with Shireen White, Director of Advocacy at Children’s Rights, and Khalees Houston, Executive Director of Village Arms. They discuss their work addressing systemic racism and the overrepresentation of African American families in Minnesota's child welfare system. Khalees shares how her advocacy led to the creation and passage of the Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act, a law aimed at stopping biased removal practices and keeping families together. Shireen adds insights from her work on systemic reform and community collaboration across the country. This episode explores the challenges within child welfare and the role of legislative action in driving change.

References:

Complaint Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d, and 45 C.F.R. Part 80 Regarding Discrimination by the State of Minnesota

Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act

In our first episode of season three, Sonia Johnson, ESQ and Classie Colinet, ESQ talk with Shereen A. White, Director of Advocacy & Policy at Children’s Rights, and Kelis Houston, Founder of Village Arms. They discuss the deep impact of institutional racism in the child welfare system, focusing on how it disproportionately affects Black families in Minnesota.

Shereen and Kelis share their experiences advocating for families and pushing for change. They explore key issues like the Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act, efforts to reduce family separations, and how the system can be reformed to better serve children and families.

This episode provides practical insights for anyone working in or alongside child welfare. Listen in to learn more about the challenges and opportunities for change in this important field.

In our season two finale of Torn, Sonia and Classie reflect on the journey so far, drawing inspiration from Ida B. Wells and discussing the importance of continuing the fight for a fair child welfare system. They share their thoughts on self-care, hope, the nature of reform, and the impact of collective action.

Your involvement is crucial as we move forward, sharing strategies, insights, and stories that drive change. Thank you for being with us on this journey, for your contributions, and for your commitment to making a difference. Stay tuned for more discussions, more guests, and more actions we can take together in the next season.