Conclusion

Massachusetts Citizens for Children knows from first-hand experience throughout its 40-year history, that the process of working for meaningful change is challenging and that outcomes are not always certain. However, there is a confluence of factors in Massachusetts and in the fields of child protection, family support, and child abuse prevention that makes this a time for opportunity and hope.

Can we achieve the kind of reform that will translate into improved lives for the vulnerable children and families of our state? We believe we can and that, through the collaborative efforts of all the many advocates for children who have been a part of this Summit process, we are collectively well positioned to take on and succeed at the challenge.

We look forward to a time soon in the future when the State of Massachusetts and all its citizens can repeat in truth the words of John F. Kennedy who, upon signing legislation for children, stated:[292]

We can say with some assurance that, although children may be the victims of fate, they will not be the victims of our neglect.

 

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