كيفية منع الدولي الأبوية اختطاف الأطفال عند السفر إلى المملكة العربية السعودية

النموذج العالمي للموافقة على سفر الطفل الخاص بمنظمة I CARE متوافر الآن بالعربية

 

أطفال السفر دوليا يجب أن يكون استخدام نموذج موافقة الدولي للطفل سفر مؤسسة I CARE لمنع اختطاف الأطفال

 

النموذج العالمي للموافقة على سفر الطفل الخاص بمنظمة I CARE والذي تم وضعه من أجل منع أحد الأبوين من اختطاف الطفل عند قيام أحد الوالدين باحتجاز الطفل ظلماً في دولة أجنبية، أصبح الآن متوافراً باللغة العربية. يتناول نموذج السفر مسائل قانونية هامة تتعلق باتفاقية لاهاي 1980 لحماية الأطفال من الأختطاف . ويزود المحاكم في جميع أنحاء العالم المسؤولة عن مراقبة القضايا الدولية المحتملة المتعلقة باختطاف أطفال من قبل أحد والديهم وذات صلة بالدول العربية ، بأداة لمنع الاختطاف مُثبتة دولياً ومُنَفَذة في المحاكم وتلقى دعماً واسعاً من المجتمعات القضائية، الدبلوماسية و القانونية العالمية المُطَلِعة على الحالات العالمية لاختطاف الطفل من أحد والديه.

 

في دراسة مطولة أجرتها منظمة I CARE خلال صيف عام 2014 تم إجراء استطلاع على مئات من المحامين و القضاة في جميع أنحاء العالم حيث كانوا على اطلاع على الحالات الدولية لاختطاف أطفال من قبل أحد والديهم. أظهرت نتائج الدراسة بأن أكثر من 70% من حالات خطف الأطفال من قبل أحد والديهم من بين الدول الأربع و تسعين الموقعة على اتفاقية لاهاي 1980 لحماية الأطفال من الاختطاف تحدث عندما يقوم  الأب\الأم باحتجاز الطفل ظلما خارج البلاد بدون موافقة  الأم\الأب أو بدون أمر من المحكمة، مما يشكل انتهاكاً لحق  الأم\الأب بحضانة الطفل وحق الطفل بالعيش في حضن أمه\أبيه. خَلُص الاستطلاع أيضا الى أن الغالبية العظمى من حالات “اتفاقية لاهاي 1980 لحماية الأطفال من الاختطاف” المرتبطة باحتجاز الطفل ظلما، يستخدم فيها عادة الأب\الأم المُختَطِف دفاعات الاختطاف المتاحة له بموجب المادة 12 و المادة 13 من اتفاقية لاهاي على أمل أن تقوم المحكمة الواقعة في الدولة التي تم فيها احتجاز الطفل ظلماً بإقرار تصرفهم بعدم إعادة الطفل الى دولة السلطة القضائية الأصلية التي يتبع لها.

الأمين العالم  لمكتب لاهاي الدائم الدكتور كريستوف بيرناسكوني صَرَحَ أمام مئات من المحامين في Lawyers في أوروبا في مؤتمر “اختطاف الطفل من قبل أحد أبويه” المنعقد في قصر السلام في لاهاي في بداية ربيع عام 2014، وفي مؤتمر الأكاديمية الدولية لمحامي القضايا الزوجية المنعقد في نيويورك في أواخر ربيع 2014، بأن نموذج الموافقة على السفر الخاص بمنظمة I CARE مصمم تصميماً جيد للغاية ،  ويستحق المنافسة، وأداة مفيدة جدا في منع اختطاف الأطفال ينبغي استغلالها عند سفر الأطفال خارج البلاد. اضافة لذلك، ممثلو مكتب لاهاي الدائم المتحدثون في ندوة الحوار لاهاي الخاصة بجمعية “سابورو بار” المنعقد في سابورو، اليابان، تحدثوا أمام منتدى الحضور الضخم من المحامين المختصين بقانون العائلات حول الفائدة الكبيرة لنموذج الموافقة على السفر الخاص بمنظمة I CARE.

 

في تصريح سابق للأمين العام لمكتب لاهاي الدائم، “سنحت لي الفرصة للاطلاع على نموذج السفر ويجب أن أقول بأنه أثار انطباعي: هذه هي الوثيقة الأكثر شمولاً من نوعها من بين ما رأيته حتى الأن،وليس هناك أدنى شك في ذهني بأنها تمثل جهوداً  قيمة وهامة لمنع اختطاف الأطفال. أنا أُثَمن جهودكم وأود تهنئتكم أنتم وفريق العمل الخاص بكم…من المثير للانطباع فعلا أن ترى مدى السرعة التي تمكن خلالها نموذج الموافقة على سفر الطفل الخاص بكم  من تحقيق نتائج عملية ومدى اتقانكم لمراقبة آلية عمله – هذا رائع حقاً”.

 

 بناءا على النجاح الذي برهنه عدد كبير من حالات سفر الأطفال الدولية بالاستفادة من نموذج السفر الخاص بمنظمة I CARE، فاننا ما زلنا نشهد أهمية الدور الذي يلعبه نموذج الموافقة عل السفر الموجه باتفاقية-لاهاي في  مجال منع اختطاف الأطفال الدولي.

 

  نحن ما زلنا متفائلين للغاية بان معدل اختطاف الاطفال دولياً من قبل أحد الوالدين سينخفض بنسبة كبيرة بفضل استخدام نماذج الموافقة على السفر الموجهة باتفاقية لاهاي.تشير البحوث الخاصة بنا بأن أكثر من 70% من حالات اختطاف الأطفال الدولية تحدث عندما يتم احتجاز الطفل ظلما خارج البلاد – وهو نفس سيناريو الاختطاف الأبوي الذي تمكن نموذج السفر الخاص بنا من حماية الأطفال منه بنجاح.

 

عملية إنشاء و استخدام نموذج الموافقة على السفر الخاص بنا تعتبر بسيطة: الطفل لديه الحق بمعرفة السحر و العيش في العالم بدون أن يقلق بشأن اختطافه من قبل أحد والديه. والأبوين المستهدفين في الاختطاف لديهم الحق بأن يقوم المجتمع بحماية أطفالهم من الاختطاف. نحن نؤمن بهذه الحقوق. ونستمر في عملنا و اخلاصنا.

CW Seymore's 'Shards Of Glass' Is A Triumphant Exodus From Tyranny To Freedom

CW Seymore's `Shards of Glass' is a courageous story of freedom that is more than a pleasantly written triumph over abuse and tyranny. `Shards of Glass' is a well-written rare treasure worthy of the highest praise for its ability to speak to each of us about how we may better enhance our own human experience and condition by embracing courage to break the bindings of what may appear to be preconceived `normal'. And it is here that CW Seymore brilliance as a writer shines most: written as an empowering autobiographical memoir revolving around how CW Seymore was able to break the emotional, spiritual, and physical chains of abuse that were part of her precondition - part of her `normal' childhood - `Shards of Glass' does so much more than provide lessons for those trying to escape abuse or who are trying to sustain independence: this is a story that speaks to each of our inner spirits about what is right and wrong, about finding strength in our own morals, ethics, and values, and, about how to use our faith to embrace the courage needed to enhance our own human condition as we create our own independence. It is a story that if you listen to carefully, will speak to your heart and somehow, it very well could enhance your own life experience for this is literary gift that gives its readers 'sight'.

Previous to reading `Shards of Glass' I had never heard of `Generational Abuse'. If you're not familiar with the term, it is abuse witnessed or endured by your parents, grandparents, or guardians ingrained in who they are. It is a learned behavior that is considered acceptable, even `normal', as it moves from generation to generation, creating a cycle of abuse for future generations. Tragically, CW Seymore's experience of generational abuse as shared in `Shards of Glass' included witnessing and somehow surviving domestic violence; severe physical abuse; mental degradation; sexual abuse, molestation and rape. And despite being part of the cycle of accepting `normal' experienced in her family life, CW was able to break free of from the chains and learn how to sustain her freedom by living unbowed to her morals, ethics, and values which is who she is. Bravo!

Now, if you are fortunate the way I have been not to experience generational abuse or any form of severe abuse, let me assure you that `Shards of Glass' is so much more than a declaration of independence against abuse. CW Seymore has written an incredible story about how each of us should live in courage to be who we are by listening to our own inner spirit which guides towards enhancing and experiencing the magic in life. This is a story that spoke to me about breaking certain conditions experienced in my own generational cycle passed down to me, as it is a story of lessons that reinforce the importance of finding our own voice.

CW Seymore's `Shards of Glass' is a manifesto and blueprint to live in freedom readers everywhere will connect to as it is a call-to-arms to live in `uhuru': to live in freedom by living unbowed within the morals, ethics, and values you innately possess through courage found in your faith.

With the highest of compliments, CW Seymore's `Shards of Glass' is a very special, important, and well-written book about inner freedom I highly recommend to everyone for it is a blueprint to liberty. Personally, 'Shards of Glass' I have found such great value in this publication that it will be placed in my very special collection of cherished books I call 'Literary Treasures Of Freedom', where CW Seymore's inspirational story will accompany 'Unbowed', written by Africa's first woman to win the Noble Prize, Dr. Wangari Maathai, as well as 'My Justice' written by the empowering Patricia McKnight.

Do yourself a favor: pick up a copy of 'Shards of Glass': it could very well change your view of the world and how you interact in it for the better as it is a story, more than anything about finding and holding life's magic through finding courage and freedom.

- Peter Thomas Senese -
Best-Selling Author and Founding Director of the I CARE Foundation

Reflections On My 47th Year - The Life Of Peter Thomas Senese

So I woke up this morning looking at a field of beautiful palm trees while listening to the roaring sound of a waterfall.

It was a perfect way to celebrate the last day of a particularly good, satisfying, and deeply meaningful year that was my 47th.

In looking back and reflecting on all the things that occurred this year, I am pleased and thankful for the year that has been.  Many goals and desires have been achieved, while others that I have set out to accomplish are in a real process of coming to fruition.

In particular, my volunteer advocacy to protect children from international kidnapping is showing significant and tangible results. Truth is, the I CARE Foundation has helped bring home many abducted children while preventing a much larger number of abductions. And recently, we have released an absolute game-changing abduction prevention tool that will protect many thousands of childrens' lives.  In fact, this new tool is already working around the world.

There is very little I can compare to the happiness I feel knowing that a child of abduction has been safely brought home or spared from a terrible fate.  It is due to the joy I know that my own personal commitment to helping other families remains steadfast. In this unbowed determination to help others, I know that the roots of the work previously conducted will impact many for years to come.

As I think about my life as an author who writes international espionage thrillers, I have come to realize that in many ways my ability to research and write has allowed me to help many children around the world. Certainly, I am looking forward to releasing several of my novels . . . and that has become an important goal for my upcoming 48th year.  This included releasing Chasing The Cyclone in hardcover, along with Predators Games and Quest.

Most of all, when I look at this past 47th year, there is something that stands out more than anything and that is that I have a remarkable amount of love and meaningful friendships in my life.

To each of you who have added such deep meaning and value to my life this year, I would like to express my deep thanks and gratitude.

My 47th year was one that I truly embraced the concept of Uhuru. It is something I intend to do tomorrow, when I welcome my 48th year on this magical planet we all share.

I CARE Foundation's International Travel Child Consent Form Gives Lawyers A Tool To Protect Children From Abduction

Peter Senese & The I CARE Foundation's International Travel Child Consent Form Is Being Embraced And Utilized By Members Of The Legal Community Around The World In An Effort To Stop International Parental Child Abduction 

The I CARE Foundation is pleased to announce the groundbreaking worldwide release of the International Travel Child Consent Form now available in English, Spanish, French, and Korean. The landmark abduction prevention tool is being called by highly respected international family lawyers as a pioneering, leading-edge resource expected to reduce the number of worldwide international parental child kidnappings.

The International Travel Child Consent Form was conceptually created during an I CARE Foundation conference held at the United Nations on abduction. It was constructed to create a conclusive and categorically undeniable evidentiary agreement between two parents that affirms a child’s country of original jurisdiction prior to travel abroad is permitted while emphatically removing many common abduction defenses established under the Hague Convention child-kidnappers often use to mislead the courts during litigation.

Peter Thomas Senese of the I CARE Foundation stated, “The now released International Travel Child Consent Form is steep in Hague-oriented case law with focus on Articles 1, 12, 13 and 20 of the convention. It was created to affirm and uphold original jurisdiction of a child, affirm the child’s country of permanent residency, and remove any misleading legal defenses an abductor may attempt to utilize under Articles 12, 13, and 20 of the Hague Convention. One of the most important aspects of the new resource is that it also establishes strong support for a child’s immediate return under Article 1 of the Hague Convention. We may not have created a new international law; however, we have created a universal tool that will stop many international abductions.”

Esteemed Washington D.C. uber international family law attorney Armin U. Kuder, partner at the highly respected firm Kuder, Smollar & Friedman, has been named in every article identifying leading family lawyers in the prestigious ‘Washingtonian Magazine’ while also has been named in ‘The Best Lawyers in America’ since the publication’s inception, provided insight on the pragmatic usefulness of the ‘International Travel Child Consent Form’ when he said, “If there is no prior attempt at international abduction of a child, it is extremely difficult to convince a court that it is going to happen. The I Care Foundation International Travel Child Consent Form is a powerful tool for exposing a would-be abductor’s intent. If a parent will not sign the form, we have compelling evidence to present to a court in support of limitations on travel, use of passports, and conditions for access to the child.”

Carolina Marín Pedreño is a partner at the prestigious London-based law firm of Dawson Cornwell, Carolina Marín Pedreño is the Founding Member of FASIM, an international association of attorneys based in Barcelona created to prevent and assist with international child abduction cases. Additionally, Carolina is the Secretary of the British and Spanish Law Association, a member of the Spanish Association of Family Lawyers, AEAFA, Resolution, Reunite: International Child Abduction Centre, the Society of British and Argentine Lawyers, and the Association of Lawyers for Children. She added, “As a practitioner I am very optimistic about the effect the consent form will have in reducing kidnapping. I have just offered to use it in a case in London to offer reassurance to the other parent and minimize any concerns they have about agreeing to a holiday abroad due to a perceived risk of kidnapping. The international judiciary should embrace it as a preventive tool.”

The ‘Christopher Morris International Travel Consent Form’ is named in honor of New York police officer Christopher Morris’ and his legal fight to reunite with his daughter. Despite being a 911 hero, a former member of the FDNY, and a highly decorated police officer, Mr. Morris’ three year struggle to reunite with is daughter demonstrates nobody is immune to abduction. Mr. Morris was present at the conference on abduction held at the United Nations. He commented, “There are thousands of tragedies of abduction occurring each year because parents wrongfully detains a child abroad and then attempt to have a court sanction their disobedient act by further dishonest acts of trying to convince the court there was consent to relocate or it is in the best interest of the child to remain abroad due to abuse. If the I CARE Foundation’s travel consent form was available and had been signed before my daughter traveled to Germany, she would be in New York today. Peter Thomas Senese and the I CARE Foundation continue important and meaningful work to help children around the world. Every parent should utilize this form when a child is traveling abroad.”

Mexico’s Carlos Alvarado is a partner at the International Law Group and considered one of the most knowledgeable international family law attorneys in Mexico. Mr. Alvarado was responsible for codifying and translating the I CARE Foundation’s travel consent form into Spanish. Mr. Alvarado added, "The International Law Group has confidence this new International Travel Child Consent Form will be an excellent tool to prevent international child abductions by inhibiting parents or legal guardians abduct. I am confident governments and its agencies, including courts, will be willing to “enforce” the use of this form for all minors traveling abroad. There are no reasons for a parent or guardian not to sign it if there are no intentions to abduct. I have sent the form to a large number of colleagues in Mexico, including current Judges. Their unanimous opinions were the same: This may not stop international abduction but we all should spread and “enforce” the use of this form to prevent it, and, in case of litigation, have another element to build a stronger case. Litigation of abduction cases are difficult and extremely expensive. This new doctrine should drastically reduce the challenges of reunification in many cases."

New York City attorney Barbara Bevando Sobal, a leading pioneer in Hague Convention Cases, and considered by many in the legal profession as one of the most knowledgeable international family law practitioners and who has been directly involved in over 450 international child abduction cases and who represents clients all over the world provided expert insight on the relevance and need of the I CARE Foundation’s landmark tool when she said, “As an attorney for 26 years, working on Hague Convention cases for 23 years, and having recovered, consulted, been involved with and participated in more than 450 Hague Convention cases, the I CARE Foundation's International Travel Child Consent Form is crucial to Hague Convention Prevention cases. It is not only instructive, and, provides protections that can allay a consenting parents fear of a no-return, but, it is also helpful to Judges in the event that the parties reach an Agreement, consistent with this form, during a contentious travel litigation.” 

Silvia A. Sejas Pardo, a highly respected Argentinean and Spanish international lawyer based in Spain and who is a Founding Member of FASIM, an international association of attorneys dedicated to preventing child abduction commented, “The consent form is simple and clear which makes it an easy instrument to implement globally. The I CARE is providing with the consent form a unique, applicable tool to prevent child abduction. The international community should welcome it. Hopefully it would become a common piece of paper to travel with.”

To download a copy of the 'International Travel Child Consent Form' in English or Spanish please visit the I CARE Foundation's official website: http://www.stopchildabduction.org/

Summer International Child Abduction Scam and Fraudulently Acts To Kidnap Children

Peter Thomas Senese: Parental Child Abduction Summer Scams: Ways Abductors Fraudulently Trick Targeted Parents In Order To Kidnap Children

THE ARTICLE 13 CONSENT OR ACQUIESCENCE DEFENSE: PETITIONERS CONSENTED TO OR ACQUIESCED IN THE REMOVAL OR RETENTION.

I have previously written that during the summer school break children are at the highest risk of being a victim of international parental child abduction.  Often, cases of international child abduction that occurs during this time of year is when a parent initially travels with their child abroad with consent from the child's other parent. Often, the other parent (typically unsuspecting of any acts of abduction) will travel with scheming parent who is in reality, in the process of fraudulently planning an international child abduction.  Once the scheming parent arrives in the country they are visiting, they unleash their abduction scheme, which can include legal petitions stating that the other parent had in fact consented to a relocation before they left the child's country of original jurisdiciton, or had subsequently agreed to relocate while in the new country.

 

This is a very serious matter, and I know many parents who were victimized by abduction under The Hague Convention's Article 13 - Consent or Acquiescense Defense.

 

During the coming summer ... parents traveling abroad really need to understand some of the do's and do not's!

Under Article 13(a) of the Hague Convention, the court is not bound to return a child if the respondent establishes that the petitioner consented to or subsequently acquiesced in the removal or retention. Both defenses turn on the petitioner’s subjective intent, but they are distinctly different. The defense of consent relates to the petitioner’s conduct before the child’ removal or retention, whereas the defense of acquiescence relates to “whether the petitioner subsequently agreed to or accepted the removal or retention.” The respondent must prove these defenses by a preponderance of the evidence; however, even if one of these defenses is proven successfully, the court nonetheless retains discretion to order the child’s return.

Courts have expressed that such consent can be proved successfully with relatively informal statements or conduct. Because consent requires little formality, courts will look beyond the words of the consent to the nature and scope of the consent, keeping in mind any conditions or limitations imposed by the petitioner. Conversely, the Friedrich v. Friedrich (Friedrich II) court held that acquiescence requires “an act or statement with the requisite formality, such as testimony in a judicial proceeding; a convincing written renunciation of rights; or a consistent attitude of acquiescence over a significant period of time.” The following are some of the most common arguments and actions that parents use in their attempts to prove or disprove the defenses of consent and acquiescence.

1.      Authorization To Travel.

Often, a respondent produces a signed “Authorization to Travel” document as evidence that the petitioner gave consent for the child to change residences. Courts rarely accept this as evidence that the other parent consented to the child’s removal. In Mendez Lynch v. Mendez Lynch, the court held that an Authorization to Travel, which allowed the children to travel freely, did not indicate that the other parent gave up his legal rights of custody. There, a father signed a broad Authorization to Travel that allowed the mother of the children to take the children out of Argentina. The court held that the “evidence [was] clear that the written consents to travel were given to facilitate family vacation-related travel, not as consent to unilaterally remove the children from Argentina at the sole discretion of Respondent.”

2. Words And Actions Of Left-Behind Parents.

Courts frequently echo the warning of the Friedrich II court that “[e]ach of the words and actions of a parent during the separation are not to be scrutinized for a possible waiver of custody rights.” Here, a third party claimed that Mr. Friedrich stated that he was not seeking custody of his child because he lacked the means to support the child. The Sixth Circuit responded that, even if the statement was made, it is “insufficient evidence of subsequent acquiescence.” Additionally, “isolated statements to third parties are not sufficient to establish consent or acquiescence.”

3. Nature Of Children’s Removal.

When the abducting parent removes the child in a secretive fashion – for example, during the night, while the other parent is away, or without informing the other parent – a court is more likely to find that the other parent did not consent or acquiesce to the child’s removal. In Friedrich II, the Sixth Circuit stated that “[t]he deliberately secretive nature of [the mother’s] actions is extremely strong evidence that [the father] would not have consented to the removal of [the child].” One court referenced the abducting parent’s “deception,” which prevented any acquiescence by the left-behind parent.

For more information on International Parental Child Abduction in the United States, please visit the Department of State's Office of Children's Issues website.  In Canada, please visit the Ministry of Justice. You may also visit the I CARE Foundation or the official website of Peter Thomas Senese's Chasing The Cyclone for extensive information on abduction.

Remember, each of us can help protect children by raising awareness of IPCA.  I invite you to read just how important it is to stop abduction by reading 'Testimonial letters about Peter Thomas Senese and the I CARE Foundation'.

Peter Senese Documentary Film: Summer Vacation and International Parental Child Ab...

During the summer school vacation, many children will be targeted for international parental child abduction. This educational video will explain how abduction may occur, and what parents can do to prevent it.

Kind wishes to all,
Peter Senese
www.stopchildabduction.org
www.petersenese.com
www.chasingthecyclone.com

FACSA FOUNDATION'S Connie Lee Fights For Children: SHATTERING THE SILENCE TOUR AND DOCUMENTARY FILM Launched

SHATTERING THE SILENCE TOUR AND DOCUMENTARY  PROJECT

Issued by: 
Connie Lee - FACSA Foundation Founding Director
(Tele. 318.540.4464)
(Email: facsasavethechildren@hotmail.com)
(Website: www.facsafoundation.org)

                                                                   

The Shattering The Silence Tour and Documentary Project, at FACSAFoundation.org, is changing the social stigma of child sexual assault, public policies, conducting current research of community needs and assessment, educating communities on prevention and education of child sexual assault, by hosting free conferences with local advocates; filming a documentary on survivors stories across the nation, the latest healing modalities, and the most effective counseling techniques, with the hundred and fifteen cities Shattering The Silence Tour and Documentary Project, at FACSAFoundation.org.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice 1-3 girls, and 16 boys, will be sexually assaulted before their eighteenth birthday. Statistics are from the 10% of reported accounts, for 90% do not tell. They are silenced by the perpetrator with threats to their lives or the lives of their loved ones; who is usually a dad, mom, uncle, trusted neighbor, friend, or community leader. The children remain silent due to fear of retribution from the perpetrator, or losing their only circle of support and love they have ever known, their family. This becomes their way of life until someone steps in and protects them. According to ChildHelp USA, 5 children die a day due to abuse and neglect.

Today is the day we no longer turn away in indifference. Today is the day we tell our children, we have heard their silent cries in the night and we share their pain. People believe it is easy to turn away because you don’t see it. I say, “This is not true, for you see it every day from the angry and volatile society; which shoots up schools, murders and rapes children; where crimes of petty theft receive more sentencing than the rape of a child; where children are sold into indentured servitude, child porn, or into prostitution. What kind of society have we become, where we stand by and allow such atrocities take place, and not raise our voices to change this?

Where is the OUTRAGE?  "Enough Is Enough, We Will Not Be Silent Any Longer!" Join the FACSA Foundation Revolution at FACSAFoundation.org, or any local child advocacy groups!! I pass the baton to you, for you to advocate for our children. The children are counting on you!

 

 

Listen To Connie Lee Speak About the

SHATTERING THE SILENCE TOUR

 

 

Learn More About The

FACSA Foundation and Connie Lee's Incredible Work

 

 

Today, May 25th, 2013 Is International Missing Childrens Day - Please Show Your Support

Peter Thomas Senese - Today commemorates the 30th International Missing Children's Day. All children who are missing: parentally kidnapped or abducted by a stranger or who disappear in a world of billions are always at grave risk. Today we acknowledge the large number of children and their families who went missing and who are no longer with us, as the tragedies they experienced nor our sympathy ever adequately expressed. On behalf of the entire I CARE Foundation family and in the name of those children and their families who faced the unthinkable of having a child missing, snatched, abducted, kidnapped, held hostage, or used as a pawn as part of a deplorable scheme, we take today to honor those who have had to endure so much as we affirm our commitment to assisting families in crisis due to abduction.

 

Today, May 25th, 2013 marks the 30th International Missing Children's Day. First proclaimed by United States President Ronald Reagan as an American day of recognition over the epidemic number of missing children in the United States that has been observed by every administration since, the worldwide pandemic that impacts countries around the world is now recognized as a day to remember innocent children now gone, while reminding parents, guardians, and society as a whole of the major responsibility to make child safety a priority while raising awareness that abduction of children must be stopped at all costs.  The I CARE Foundation is committed to stopping child abduction and human trafficking. All forms of abduction, no matter who is kidnapping a child, places the child's life in grave risk.    In the spirit of today, I ask that you please consider sharing on your various social media sites including Facebook, Twitter, and any blog you administer the following essay focused on how summer is the time of year the vast majority of children are kidnapped, and what parents can do to protect them.  One thing is certain: there is no coincidence that since the I CARE Foundation launched a grassroots campaign to raise awareness of abduction, outbound kidnappings have declined by 15% the last 2 years after 30 years of growth.    As a parent of a child who was once abducted, I can't thank you in advance enough for your support as we move forward in further protecting children.

It is estimated that at least 8 million children worldwide go missing each year or 22,000 a day. The majority of these child-victim disappearnaces, abductions and kidnappings could have been avoided if society was more proactive in protecting innocence.

Unfortunately, many countries do not view protecting children as a priority and thus don’t have appropriate mechanisms in place to recover missing children who are at high risk of being exploited into trafficking, prostitution, and parental abduction. 

Today we ask all of our friends to take a few minutes out of your day and share the following two articles via your social media networks because, if history repeats itself, this information will reach a family at risk of abduction today.

Summer Vacations And International Parental Child Abduction

Protecting Against International Child Abduction: Dual Citizenship and Two Passports

Thank you in advance for your help!

On behalf of the I CARE Foundation family -

Peter Thomas Senese


 

Patricia McKnight: Hero, Conqueror, Friend, Architect Of Cathedrals Of Hope

Peter Thomas Senese On Patricia McKnight: "Hero, Conqueror, Friend, Architect Of Cathedrals Of Hope."

 

There are special occassions in one's life where you meet someone that impacts your life so profoundly that in a certain way, their kindred spirit intimately weaves with your own so that in a very unique and uncommon way, that person becomes a part of who you are.  Several years ago, I had the special privelage of becoming friends with Tricia McKnight.

 

At that time, I think we were both finding our voices with respect to the advocacy we actively pursue assisting families in crisis.  At the time, Tricia was learning what it meant to be courageous in her voice. To live in Uhuru - freedom by being unbowed to all around her so long as she lived in the morals, ethics, and valuses that is what she believed in.  Fast-forwarding several years later, my dear friend has been such an important inspiration and guide to me as I, in my role with the I CARE Foundation, fight to protect children from abduction and trafficking.  In this sense, the foundation has helped a rather large number of targeted children.

 

The vast majority of who will never know there is a giant-hearted, kind, compassionate, yet strong woman living in Illinois that played a bigger role than anyone might ever know or understand in how they were either safely brought home after an abduction or who had the tentacles of abduction pushed back before they were snatched.  In Patricia McKnight's 'My Justice', the impact on society has been deep and profound: not only can I say this based upon the activity of the I CARE Foundation, but in knowing and befriending many individuals Patricia has served as she has, in her own unique way, guided them to become the Architect of Their Own Cathedrals Of Hope by teaching self-reliance, self-worth, self-value, and the reality that each of us has the ability to put that Superman or Superwoman cape on.  The world is a better place because of Patricia McKnight. And though I am far from perfect, I know I am a better man because this amazing lady calls me her 'friend'.

 

As for 'My Justice', it is one of the most important books I have ever read: one I keep near-by. One I cheerish and count amongst a small group of books that have shaped my thought process and so, made me who I am today. So if you have not heard of Patricia McKnight nor read 'My Justice' I cannot suggest highly enough to do so.  You very well might learn what it is to live in 'Uhuru'

- Peter Thomas Senese -

 

“My Justice”

‘Life changing, Highly Reviewed

 

‘My Justice’ is a horrifying, but excellently written autobiography about the sadistic thirty plus years survived by one local woman who grew up within the small community of Freeburg, Illinois. Located just 40 miles outside of St. Louis; Author Patricia A. McKnight is sharing a life lived in hell, which is a FIVE STAR RATED tale of just how dark one man’s actions can be to the child within his home.

 

Ms. Debra Mize, Prevention Coordinator & Educator for Violence Prevention Center of Southwestern Illinois, refers to this incredible story as the most powerful since she had read, and then seen a speaking engagement presented by, the great author Dave Pelzer and his autobiography, ‘A Child Called It; One child’s courage to survive’ which was one of the leading New York Times Best Seller List”.

 

‘Shocking, Disturbing, Emotionally Charging throughout every page!”

This powerful story is one which will rock the moral foundations of everyone who reads. Patricia A. McKnight; Author/Advocate/Speaker, now founder of Butterfly Dreams Abuse Recovery & Talk Radio Programming, begins her story at just five years old as a happy little girl filled with excitement, but the moment she open’s the door to the next thirty plus years of her life, everything you thought you knew about the evils lurking within our homes will be forever changed’.

 

Dr. Brenda Joyce Orozco Markert-Green: whose highly skilled reputation as a Family & Marriage Counselor, Owner & CEO at Afterglow Counseling, Mediation & Family Services, Trainer for American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy, Educator and Adjunct Faculty Board Member of La Sierra University, located in Riverside, California is now using this incredible novel as REQUIRED READING for her students in the field of therapy and family counseling. “My family therapy students are required not only to read this autobiography, they are also required to complete an exam and classroom discussion on what they absorbed and felt; what can they take forward as therapist to increase their senses, skills and expertise as counselors, and to enhance their abilities to better help their clients. This story leaves a deep, lasting impression on my students, which I’ve seen first hand. It truly changes how we see the lives of those around us and how the victims are left so shattered by these acts of viciousness.”

 

Mr. Peter Thomas Senese: Best Selling Geo-Political Thriller Author/Child Advocate & Founder of I CARE Foundation, who also helped build a women’s shelter and who, in his capacity with the I CARE Foundation, sponsored a conference at the United Nations at the request of the Department of State on international parental child abduction and trafficking, while working to create new laws and government policies that will protect children from kidnapping said of Ms. McKnight in numerous articles and essays, a ‘Hero; A conqueror over abuse and calls this book a ‘Blue Print to Freedom from Abuse’, but it is so much more for by penned word and by action after action, Ms. McKnight and all that encompasses who she is educates or reminds each of us that all of our voices matter. On this note, ‘My Justice’ is a map to find one’s courage, and in it, freedom. As an avid reader and best-selling author, ‘My Justice’ sits in a very special area in my home – and next to ‘Unbowed’ by Noble Prize writer and friend, Wangari Maathai – as ‘My Justice’ has had that significant an impact on my life and my own call-to-arms to protect innocent children from abuse. In my capacity with the I CARE Foundation fighting against child kidnappers, there are many times that I would ask myself while dealing with these difficult cases of families in crisis, “What would Tricia do?” Then answer has led to many children once bound to know freedom . . . and that is just how significant of an impact ‘My Justice’ has had on me and the community of children we serve around the world.

 

Ms. Linda Walcher: Educator in the Fayetteville & Freeburg, Illinois school system for over 20 years and now a leading member in the Illinois Retired Teachers Association and mentor for many college students has this to share about ‘My Justice’ and the little girl she once had as a student. ‘As an educator, I first met Ms. McKnight when she entered my fourth grade class. Being fresh out of college and a very young teacher then; she was one of my first students. In her bright blue eyes I saw just a happy, beautiful little girl. As I moved on to continue my long time career in the same school system as she attended, I truly had no clue as to the life I could have saved in that child. It is only in the last few years, since first reading the details of her endured beatings and sadistic crimes of her step-father, that I have reached out and fully support every effort she puts forth on a daily basis to use her learned and lived knowledge to try and help many others. As an active member in the Retired Teachers Association and with the mentoring of upcoming educators now in college, there is not enough I can say about how this book has changed my entire thinking process. Back in the 70’s we were not as educated or made aware as we should have been about child abuse and what signs to watch for in the children. Throughout my years as an educator I was able to help rescue a few children, but reading this story brought all of that little girl’s Red Flag Warning Signs, which she was waving around with all her might, but I just didn’t have the knowledge or the training then to help her. ‘My Justice’ is a book which I highly recommend for anyone who spends time with children.’

 

Incredibly, Ms. McKnight has taken all of her many years of tragedy and turned them into something she is hoping will help rescue victims of Child Abuse and Family or Domestic Violence. She has founded the abuse and violence recovery program, Butterfly Dreams Abuse Recovery, which can be found by visiting her website http://www.butterflydreamsabuserecovery.com. There she begins with a few basic steps which are FREE to use by absolutely anyone to help with rebuilding life after any form of abuse or violence has effected you or someone you love. On this new site you will find educational and awareness information about what to do if you’ve just recently been harmed and what we can be aware of as a society to help those around us who may be struggling to cope through some form of abuse.

 

Patricia A. McKnight, known as ‘Trish’ to those who chat with her almost daily, has endured a life that most of us cannot imagine, but to her it was just seen as ‘normal’. She knows the path that many victims of these crimes follow in the aftermath of being violated. In her drive to better help us understand she is making all of us aware; ‘The purpose for publishing ‘My Justice’ was a need to explain and apologize to my children for the many broken repeated violent relationships I engaged in, which have left their own wounds.

 

The bitter truth is there was never any legal from of justice to ever come from all the years, but I needed to release myself from the hand covering my mouth and holding me captive in dysfunctions and madness all these decades; this is how and why I needed to publish this story. What has made a deeper impact on me is the many millions living in our society today just like me; some with even more horrific stories than mine. Because of the way we have been taught to view these actions, there are now an estimated 50 Million or more who know how dark a parent or trusted person’s actions can become. Sadly these many others, and myself included, should be our society’s learning examples of how these crimes, and they are actually evil criminal acts against our own children and our partners; how they set up human beings to live out their lives in a broken existence without ever seeing any value in their person. Even though these actions have been going on in our homes and communities since the dawn of mankind, doesn’t make it the right way to live. It means that we have to step up our game against these behaviors and see them for what they are Nothing less than a learned way to live and treat others, a disrespect and need for power over another human being.

 

We need to toughen our prosecutions for these crimes and begin to really protect everyone around us, not just our own children. What we have permitted by teaching silence to the victims, is what I refer to as our own ‘Man-Made Cancer’ only there is no wonder science which will ever provide the cure. Only by being aware, being vigilant, and being educated about the impacts of the aftermath; the many lifelong impacts of mental health disorders such as; P.T.S.D; Depression, Anxiety, Drug & Alcohol Addictions, Eating Disorders, and even worse the many who’ve committed suicide and taken their own lives because of the horrible after effects. Seeing these ugly realities for what they are is the only way we will be able to change what has been taught as so normal. I believe when you discard someone because of their dysfunctions and what many may judge as being ‘less worthy’ or ‘damaged’; then you are discarding a victim or a survivor, someone who has been or is now being brutalized by someone they love. It is by learning from the experts, many of whom make up the millions of survivors today, that we will be able to change our thinking towards these crimes. This is our only hope for providing some form of rescue for our children’s future. What will you say when it happens to a child you know or love? Our kids are watching all of the activities across the internet today and they are paying attention to what we do when it comes to helping them cope with all their daily battles. I wonder how they will think of us if we continue to ignore it all as we’ve been taught?”

 

If you would like to find our more about this survivor turned, Author/Advocate/Speaker/Talk Radio Prod & Host, Founder of Butterfly Dreams Abuse Recovery, you can contact her by emailing direct to butterflydreamsabuserecovery@gmail.com or tricia.mcknight@hotmail.com. You can also visit her website http://www.butterflydreamsabuserecovery.com to enlighten yourself and others about the recovery process or what you may be able to do, not only to spot a victim in your family or workplace, but also create a greater vigilance within your communities and school systems. ‘Trish’ can also be found across many of our social networking sites today, all of the links you need and direct contact information has been shared below. This engaging and empowering speaker is happy to share with your churches, schools, any outlet you choose to give hope and help to all of those who directly relate with children, young single mothers, and even men who are living the life of heavy dark secrets today.

 

You are invited to view her latest speaking engagement through this You Tube Video; http://youtu.be/tujWedUtdf0

 

This was for the Illinois Healthcares Grant Education Seminar held at the Belleville, Illinois; National Shrine of our Lady of the Snows, where the Violence Prevention Center held a training seminar with the outstanding Dr. Elaine Alpert. One of America’s Global Health Staff & Advisors out of Massachusetts General Hospital, who is a panel discussion member and actively speaking for the Education and Enhanced Collaboration of Health Professionals to rescue and provide help for victims of child abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking. 

 

Follow Patricia A. McKnight or listen to her live blog talk radio program every Monday & Wednesday evening:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/butterflydreamsabuserecovery

 

http://www.facebook.com/triciagirl62

 

Google +, Twitter, Linkedin & Pinterest either Patricia A. McKnight or Tricia McKnight

You can purchase your copy of ‘My Justice’ in paperback, e-book, Kindle & Nook through most online book resources. E-book & Kindle editions just $2.99

 

Peter Senese's New Film To Shoot At United Nations

I am very pleased to share that a portion of the film on international parental child abduction titled 150,000 Internationally Kidnapped Children presently in production and being produced in conjunction with the I CARE Foundation will add the United Nations as a key location to the film.

Filming at the United Nations is no easy task. I am very thankful to the team at the United Nations for granting the necessary access required to film on location.

However, having previously sponsored a conference and spoken at the United Nations in my capacity as the founding director of the I CARE Foundation concerning the issue of international parental child abduction (IPCA) in conjunction with the United States Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program, it is both an honor and only fitting to have an important portion of the film take place at the United Nations.

I am very excited about the potential positive impact that 150,000 Internationally Kidnapped Children may have on others, including parents who may be targeted to have a child internationally abducted by the child's other parent or by a stranger.

Previously, and in an ongoing effort, I produced the rather straight-forward educational documentary series on international parental child abduction titled Chasing Parents: Racing Into The Storms Of International Parental Child Abduction which discussed a wide-range of issues associated with international parental child abduction, including warning signs and risk factors, what to do if your child is targeted or taken, the Prevent Departure Program, and the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative amongst many critically important topics associated with child kidnapping.

Judging from the tens of thousands of views of the Chasing Parents: Racing Into The Storms of International Parental Child Abduction along with the rather large number of parents who personally contacted me and shared that the information contained in the educational documentary series made the difference between having their child remain at home as opposed to being internationally abducted, there is a clear international need for a film such as 150,000 Internationally Kidnapped Children: one that not only shares critically important new research conducted by the I CARE Foundation concerning IPCA, but a film that clearly shows both the incredible dangers of stranger and non-stranger abduction in a way that gives light to ways which these kidnappings may be prevented.

Of course, at the core of all the information that I create concerning IPCA is the unbending desire and commitment to help educate society and targeted parents so that children will not face the dangerous, and at times deadly ordeal of IPCA.

There unquestionably is a great crisis on our hands as too many children around the world are being abducted. However, if the statistics of reported cases of abduction originating from the United States demonstrate anything - there has been a two-year consecutive decline of over 15% per year the last two years - it is that stewarding the message that IPCA is a real threat, and enlightening society of the reality of IPCA does in fact mean something: after nearly 30 years of near-consistent growth in the number of IPCA cases, we've pushed back the proverbial mountain in the United States . . . and though there is a great deal to still be done, there is measurable indicators that raising awareness has made a sizeable difference in protecting children from abduction.

On a very personal note, and as a storyteller and writer, when I first began my journey as an international parental child abduction prevention advocate by writing the critically accalimed novel Chasing The Cyclone that was deeply inspired by my own experiences, I never thought that so many miracles would happen as a by-product of these efforts. But that is what happened because through it, dozens of internationally kidnapped children have been reunited while an even larger number of targeted children of abduction have remained safe.

And that is very cool.

-Peter Thomas Senese-

On Heroes, Faith, Children, and God: One Incredible Journey

It has been my true honor and privilege over the past few years to help a large and growing number of families who find themselves in the horrific storms of international parental child abduction.  Reflecting on the children who were kidnapped to countries such China, Nigeria, The Ivory Coast, Argentina, Brazil, Russia, India, Sweden, and Mexico, just to name a handful of countries, and who were all safely returned home, the sense of benevolence toward others creates deep bonds not just to those families assisted, but generally, to the majority of families caught in the mayhem of abduction or planned abduction.

Fighting against abduction is not an easy task by any means.

More often than not failure is the drink of the day. With it, there is dire concern for an abducted child's safety and well-being. Anger and despair are common emotions chasing parents seeking to reunite with their child often feel. The heaviness of the sense of helplessness reminds me of a dark, drab, heavy wet black canvas that covers you as the resources needed to recover a child are vast, but by no means come close to guaranteeing a child's safe return.

Lingering always in my mind is the reality that parents do murder their children (filicide).

This thought often causes me to wake up in the night. I often find myself asking, "What can I do better, or what can I do more of to help these families?"

On the abduction prevention front, there exists a different type of battle.  The challenge for a parent attempting to prevent the international parental child abduction of their child is filled with many serious challenges, including the reality that most judges still do not understand the depth of how serious this issue is, and how rules of law and court orders issued by them really have limited bearing on an abduction case should a taking parent successfully be able to snatch a child.

Like anything, balance is essential to a good, healthy, and meaningful life.

Now, over the past 4 months, the I CARE Foundation has been involved in numerous successful legal international parental child abduction recoveries.  And thought I take great pride in each reunification, I am also reminded that there are so many other parents and children desperately trying to reunite. So the victories, if you will, are in some sense in fact reminders of our failures, and need to do more.

This said, I am human. I put my heart out on my sleeve each and every time I get involved in trying to help another parent.

There is never a day that goes by that I have not communicated to at least 3 or 4 parents in crisis, nor the support team that are assisting at-risk or abducted children.

Sometimes that dark, wet, drab black canvas of abduction seems to heavy for my shoulders.

Now those of you who know me know that I hold close to me my spiritual faith. I am by far not perfect: far from it.  But I do believe HE is.

So, last week I traveled to Florida in order to see some of the young girls who were recently freed from the worst of all nightmares that I previously spoke of. Thank goodness each is doing well. Laughter has broken the chains of mankind at our worst.

And I had some professional responsibilities that one day in the near future I am certain to share.

But truth is, I really needed some space and time for myself as the dark cloaks of abduction were enveloping my spirit.

And so, I did what I know and what I love: I went scuba diving with one of my best friends - one who has a heart of kindness as big as the grand canyon (see reference in Chasing The Cyclone). 

So, here we are off of Key Largo, and for whatever the reason, I started the day in reflective prayer.

While heading out to the dive site that I was clueless on what awaited us there, I remember talking to God in my own special way as the ocean's mist cooled my sun-stroked face. Across from me was my pal of nearly 20 years.

I felt my heart slow down. The dark canvas was being pulled back and rays of light were warming my spirit.

About 5 miles from shore, our captain stopped the boat's engine. We were at our dive site.

There he simply said, "This is a very special place for some. Its said that you may find an answer or two down there."

I looked at my pal, shrugged, and began to double check my diving equipment.

Moments later, I plunge into the blue water and descend onto a delightful coral reef filled with scores of beautiful fish.

Still thinking of the children of abduction and the new direction of the Catholic Church I am proud to be a part of and Pope Frances' offerings, I begin to pray.

It was one of the most peaceful times I have ever known.

I was looking for God.  I was looking for Christ.  Well - guess who showed up?

So here I stayed, two tanks later, deep in prayer, asking the God I believe in to help the children who are targeted, taken, trafficked, and abused.

It is a day I will remember forever. A defining day.

 

Every Day Is World Autism Awareness Day!

Children on the autism spectrum see the world differntly.  Thank goodness there exists those who see the world in the purity most of us hope to see it.

 

Growing up in what you may consider a traditional Italian-American family in New York City, the value and importance of family was instilled in my very fabric from birth. 

Looking in the mirror and seeing the reflection of who I am today, my mind comfortabley - easily drifts back in time as I peel away the memories of my extended family life: it is no wonder that the importance of family has only strenghtened over time . You see, I was and am blessed not only to have two amazing brothers, but a host of really terrific cousins, who till this day, remain close to my heart.

Last night, I received a very touching and endearing letter from my dear cousin Andrea, who took the time to write to me and thank me for raising my voice with respect to autism. 

 

To say I love my cousin would be one of the biggest understatements I could possibly make.  A gentle, witty, and compassionate mother of 4 beautiful children who I cheerish, Andrea, a talented science teacher, has dedicated her life to being the best mother she can be.

 

Each of her children are incredible. And I am truly blessed to have a loving bond with each; however, in our family, it is Anthony, who is on the spectrum and is Andrea's youngest child, who in his very special way, has, by act, become a teacher to our family for this young boy sees the world in the purity that we all hope to one day have.  Anthony's enlightened state of gentle innocence is the best of aspirations in mankind. 

 

In honor of the teachings of Anthony, along with the incredible wisdom of my pal Connor, who I love equally, I declare the following:

 

In The World Of Peter Thomas Senese

EVERY DAY IS WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY!!  

 

 

Note:

(On April 2nd, 2013 we celebrated World Autism Awareness Day. Please find below the post I shared.)

 

Please show your support and wear BLUE today... World Autism Awareness Day!

I will be wearing BLUE, Lighting It Up Blue, and cheering on all those, including my wonderful friend Jennifer Husson-Cluff, who is participating in an awareness walk later today.

I must say, I have been blessed to have my eyes opened by my dear friend Jen about the issues children and families who are on the spectrum face, but more so, I have been so fortunate to have her son Connor - my little buddy - come into my life. Connor is my Super Hero!

And my family has been so extraordinarily blessed to have Anthony in our lives. He teaches us the value of being gentle - and we are so fortuante for that and him.

Today, please take a moment or two to understand the challenges of autism and show your support for all those who see the world differently.  You know . . . greatness and mankind's life's enhancements come from those who see the world differently.

To learn more about autism and being on the spectrum please visit Jen's top rated parenting website www.mom-ology.ca.

Best wishes to all,

Peter Thomas Senese