Paris Hilton stands at the forefront of a vital campaign, urging Congress to combat child abuse in youth treatment centers.
At a Glance
- Paris Hilton is celebrating the passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act by the US House and Senate, aimed at improving protections for institutionalized youth.
- Hilton has been a vocal supporter of the bill, drawing from her own experiences of abuse in programs for troubled teens.
- The bill seeks more transparency, accountability, and reform in youth residential programs to ensure safe and nurturing environments.
- The bill, introduced in April 2023, follows Hilton’s advocacy work and her memoir detailing her abuse experiences.
Hilton’s Advocacy for Legislative Change
Paris Hilton is celebrating a significant milestone in her fight against child abuse in youth residential programs with the passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act by both the US House and Senate. Hilton has been a vocal supporter of this bill, drawing from her own harrowing experiences in similar programs for troubled teens. Her advocacy brings awareness to the systemic issues within these institutions and the desperate need for reform.
The newly passed bill seeks to ensure more transparency, accountability, and reform in youth residential programs, targeting the improvement of regulations and the safety of these environments. Hilton’s efforts underscore the urgency of legislative change to prevent the abuse of vulnerable children in these settings.
Yesterday at Capitol Hill, I gave a speech urging the House to pass the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act—a bill that would protect children from the same trauma I endured as a teen in a residential treatment facility.
I’ve visited the Capitol several times since beginning on… pic.twitter.com/wE2ItHGGtq
— Paris Hilton (@ParisHilton) December 17, 2024
A Personal Connection
Introduced in April 2023, the bill follows Hilton’s concerted advocacy efforts and the release of her memoir, which details her own traumatic experiences. Hilton’s dedication to child welfare advocacy is powered by personal experiences that have left her with PTSD. “I endured abuse no child should ever face. Abuse that was physical, sexual, emotional and profoundly isolating,” Hilton shared, aiming to prevent similar experiences for future generations.
The bill received unanimous approval from the Senate, with all 100 senators in favor, reflecting a growing consensus on the necessity of this reform. Hilton’s determination and testimony before Congress highlighted the deceptive practices employed by some of these institutions that mislead parents about the well-being of their children.
It was incredible getting to connect with you to push this act forward, and your support is so greatly appreciated @SenJeffMerkley. #StopInstitutionalChildAbuse #SICCA https://t.co/DEVF2udPKK
— Paris Hilton (@ParisHilton) April 28, 2023
Future Impact and Continued Efforts
The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act aims to fill the lack of oversight in residential treatment programs, impacting over 200,000 foster youth and children with disabilities. It focuses on gathering crucial information and recommending best practices to ensure these facilities provide safe and nurturing environments. Hilton, now a mother, is even more motivated to continue her advocacy, highlighting the critical need for reform. “For years, I carried my pain of my experience in silence,” Hilton expressed, emphasizing the importance of using one’s voice to instigate change.
Georgia Congressman Buddy Carter collaborated with Hilton on this legislative effort, indicating a bipartisan commitment to protecting children from institutional harm. The bill is a significant step forward in policy change focused on the humane and dignified treatment of youth in care settings, bridging celebrity influence and political action to safeguard future generations.
Sources
1. Congress passes Paris Hilton-backed bill aimed at protecting institutionalized youth
2. Paris Hilton asks House to pass bill to prevent child abuse
