Write a commentAs October marks National Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, Erin’s Angels of CNY is calling on New Yorkers to take action to protect children from the devastating consequences of abuse and neglect.
The organization is urging the public to sign a Change.org petition advocating for the passage of the New York State Children’s Bill of Rights, a legislative initiative inspired by the tragic story of Erin Maxwell.
The organization is asking the public to sign and share the petition at change.org/p/demand-the-passage-of-a-nys-children-s-bill-of-rights-to-protect-our-children.
“Supporting this bill is about telling our kids: You are important. You matter. And we see you,” Dion added. “We must ensure that no child in New York State suffers the way Erin did. This month, as we honor survivors and victims of domestic abuse, let’s also commit to protecting the most vulnerable among us, our children.”
Erin Maxwell, the organization’s namesake, was just 11 years old when she died in 2008 under horrific conditions in her Oswego County home. Her death, which involved starvation, confinement, and neglect and abuse, shocked the community and exposed critical gaps in child protection laws. Her stepbrother was convicted of second-degree murder, and her parents were charged with multiple counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
“Erin’s story is heartbreaking, but it must also be a catalyst for change,” said Sheila Dion, Founder and Director of Erin’s Angels of CNY. “Children don’t get to choose the circumstances they’re born into. But they deserve a society that protects their dreams and potential. The Children’s Bill of Rights is not just a document, it’s a promise. A promise that we won’t ignore food insecurity, emotional neglect, or unsafe living conditions. It’s time to turn compassion into policy.”
The proposed Children’s Bill of Rights outlines fundamental protections for every child in New York State, including access to nutritious food, clean water, emotional support, and safe housing. Erin’s Angels, which began as a grassroots effort to combat weekend hunger among schoolchildren, has expanded its mission to include advocacy for systemic reform.
For more information about Erin’s Angels visit www.erinsangels.com
