>>Isn't it a law in most (all?) states that child abuse *must* be reported to
child protective services?  I certainly don't advocate rushing to report
parents at the first hint of rigidity, with no effort to educate them first,
but allowing a child literally to starve to death is abuse, no matter whose
philosophy the parents think they're following. Surely the right to religious
freedom stops short of allowing physical harm to children.<<

I'm feeling very hesitant here. As much as I want to help these families and
convince Mr. Ezzo of our points, I hesitate at the thought of reporting them
to CPS. None of these parents is trying to starve their baby, and will give
ABM if no other recourse suits their beliefs. This may not be our first
choice, but it does indicate willingness to do whatever else it takes to care
for their baby properly.  These families are merely "brainwashed", if you
will, and not neglectful by purpose, only ignorance. If we come out *too*
strongly, they will feel persecuted, and I fear that the belief system will
become even more deeply rooted.  My preference is to notify other powers with
each and every case, but not threaten these families personally. Just my
humble opinion.

-Lisa Marasco, LLLL, IBCLC
[log in to unmask]