‘Patriot’ Groups Glom on to National Protest of Family Court System

‘Patriot’ Groups Glom on to National Protest of Family Court System | Hatewatch | Southern Poverty Law Center

A nationwide “family rights protest” set for next week – and billed as one of the biggest ever — is attracting attention and support from antigovernment militia, “Patriot” and “sovereign citizens” groups.

Protests organized by a group called “govabuse” are planned outside courthouses in more than 300 counties in at least 42 states on Aug. 12. Organizers say the protests – fueled by a Facebook campaign and utilizing a special red, white and blue ribbon — are intended to shed light on “abuse of constitutional rights” by family court judges, guardians ad litem and child protective service workers. The group complains that the system is “used to separate and financially demolish families.”

Patricia M. Martin, a Chicago judge who is president of the of National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, said such judges are always seeking to improve the system. She said her organization “has worked tirelessly for 74 years to ensure the constitutional rights of all parties involved in cases our membership presides over.” She added, “We are committed to keeping families together and when needed, strengthening the ability of parents to raise their children.”

The national association, she said, works “to improve training for judges and other court personnel resolving disputes that involve child protection, juvenile justice, family violence and family law matters. Of paramount importance to our membership is access to justice and the protection of the rights of all.”

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