In a time when it’s easy to stay silent, the courage of a few can speak volumes. We are witnessing this right now as three brave women from the Cape have boldly stepped into the spotlight to protect children from inappropriate content in public spaces. Their story is a powerful reminder that courageous citizens, grounded in conviction and guided by truth, can make a difference.
Deeply concerned by the availability of obscene materials in schools and libraries, which unbeknownst to parents can be legally shown to children thanks to a 50-year-old legislative loophole, these women took action. They filed legislation through a little-known mechanism in Massachusetts law that allows private citizens to propose legislation “by request.” That proposal became House Bill 2042: An Act Relative to Child Protection.
This bill reaffirms two basic principles: a child’s right to innocence should not be suspended simply because they are at school or in a public library, and an adult should not have a right to distribute obscene material to minors simply because they do it within that context. Kids should be protected from pornography and obscenity everywhere – no special carveouts, no exceptions. In an era where institutions seem committed to lowering the bar of child protection and MA schools have recently seen case after case of school staff members being arrested for possession of child sexual material, these women’s determination to raise the bar and stand for decency is not only heroic – it is crucial.
But they didn’t stop at filing the bill. Recognizing that lasting change requires collective action, they launched a grassroots advocacy group, ProtectKids25.
Through ProtectKids25, these intrepid warriors have organized events to educate the public and build support for H.2042. One such event was held in Falmouth in March. This gathering, intended to raise awareness and promote community dialogue, was met with hostile opposition from local activists who falsely labeled the women as fascists and book banners and misrepresented the bill itself. They even created a Change.org petition to protest ProtectKids25’s efforts!
Despite the misinformation and vitriol levied against them, these ladies responded with grace and resilience. Rather than retreat, they continued pressing forward, testifying before the legislature and articulating, clearly and compellingly, why this bill matters.
Their courage has attracted the attention of like-minded citizens, and the momentum is growing. ProtectKids25 is still actively seeking co-signers and supporters. You can view one of their latest posts here to learn more about how to get involved or to stand with them in their advocacy.
What the members of ProtectKids25 are doing is not easy, but it is necessary. In the face of cultural hostility, they are standing firm for the protection of children. These brave citizens deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our support. Let’s ensure the voices of parents and concerned citizens continue to rise, because the courage of a few can indeed change the course for many.
In addition to our top legislative priorities, MFI is also tracking several other important bills that uphold family values, religious freedom, parental rights, and the sanctity of life. H.2042, An Act Relative to Child Protection, is among them—and is featured on our recently updated legislative one-pager. Each one of these bills addresses meaningful concerns that directly impact families and communities across the Commonwealth. From protecting children in public libraries to opposing taxpayer-funded abortion for inmates, these proposals deserve your thoughtful attention and action. We encourage you to explore the full list and take a moment to contact your legislators about the issues that matter most to you.
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