Nurturing voices: Reflections on advocacy and empowerment in child protection

By Fatima Khan LL.M. ’24

As my time at the Child Advocacy Clinic draws to a close, I find myself reflecting deeply on the profound journey I have embarked upon at the Child Protection Unit (CPU) of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office (SCDAO). Nestled within the heart of the bustling legal machinery of Massachusetts, this unit serves as a bastion for the protection and advocacy of some of society’s most vulnerable members—children who have endured unimaginable trauma and abuse.

From the moment I stepped into the CPU, I was confronted with the stark reality of child sexual abuse and physical neglect cases that inundate our criminal justice system. The sheer volume of cases—over 1,500 referrals in just one year—underscores the magnitude of the issue we face as a society. Yet, amidst the daunting statistics and legal intricacies, I found a glimmer of hope in the dedicated efforts of the prosecutors, victim witness advocates, and other staff members who tirelessly championed the cause of these young survivors.

One of the defining features of my experience at the CPU was the emphasis on adopting a victim-centered approach to advocacy. Witnessing firsthand the trauma-informed lawyering practices and the meticulous care with which each case was handled reaffirmed my belief in the importance of prioritizing the well-being and agency of the child above all else. The establishment of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County as a collaborative hub for multidisciplinary responses further underscored the commitment to holistic support for survivors.

My role as an intern at the CPU was multifaceted, encompassing a spectrum of tasks ranging from transcribing forensic multidisciplinary interviews to drafting legal motions pertaining to the admission of DNA evidence. Yet, amidst the myriad responsibilities, it was the profound impact of the multidisciplinary approach that left an indelible mark on my journey. Participating in the multidisciplinary team training hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County underscored the transformative power of collaborative, comprehensive responses to child abuse and exploitation. The convergence of professionals from diverse disciplines—from social workers (from the Department of Children and Families) to prosecutors (from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office)—exemplified the collective commitment to safeguarding the well-being of every child and family.

Central to my experience were the forensic interviews— intimate encounters where children bravely recounted their experiences of abuse. Witnessing the varied responses and coping mechanisms employed by these young survivors underscored the complex interplay of trauma and resilience. It was during these interviews that I struggled with the question of the profound potential for healing and empowerment inherent in the criminal justice process, contrary to my initial perceptions. The overarching theme of youth empowerment resonated deeply with me throughout my journey. The concept of “voice and choice” emerged as a guiding light, underscoring the importance of empowering children to reclaim agency in the face of adversity. Amidst the triumphs and insights, I grappled with the inherent limitations of our current systems in truly centering the voices and choices of the youth. The pervasive focus on punitive measures often overshadowed the imperative of rehabilitation and support for survivors, prompting introspection and a renewed commitment to advocacy. It was during moments of introspection, such as the multidisciplinary team orientation training, that I was reminded of the need to center the voices and experiences of survivors in our quest for justice.

Navigating the emotional toll of this work was perhaps one of my greatest challenges. The relentless exposure to harrowing narratives of abuse demanded a delicate balance between professional duty and personal well-being. Through moments of self-care and the unwavering support of colleagues, I found solace amidst the storm, reaffirming the importance of prioritizing mental health in the pursuit of justice.

As I pen my final reflections, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the transformative experiences and invaluable lessons garnered throughout my journey at the Child Advocacy Clinic. Armed with newfound insights and unwavering determination, I embark on the next chapter of my career with a renewed sense of purpose – to champion the rights and well-being of every child, and to nurture their voices in the pursuit of justice.