Lois Curtis was only 11, but she knew all about hospitals and jails. Anytime she got into trouble, she was sent away. Her mother even turned her over to the state for care at times! But things were about to change.
Normally, whenever she “acted out,” she was sent to a juvenile jail or a hospital until she calmed down or until her mother came to get her.
This time, however, she was sent to a prison-like mental hospital! But it gets worse.
She was warehoused in the hospital for DECADES. Year after year, she tried to get released – but the state held her, claiming the services she needed could only be provided in the hospital.
Would she be locked up forever?
No! She sued the state, and won her freedom!
Her case also made it possible for other Black children – as well as everyone with mental health needs – to get the services they needed in their own communities instead of being locked in far-away mental hospitals.
Curtis became an advocate for those unable to stand up for themselves. Regardless of our abilities, we have the right to exist in our own unique ways. How will you advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves?