Support The Jacksons: Demand Justice From State Agencies

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) wrongfully took Rodney and Temecia Jackson's newborn — just days after she was born.

The Jacksons — a Black couple living in the Dallas-Fort Worth area — opted to care for M.J. at home with guidance from their midwife. Yet, a pediatrician reported the Jacksons to Child Protective Services for suspected medical neglect. Within days, state authorities forcibly removed M.J. from her parents’ care.

No parent should ever have to experience the trauma of being torn from their baby.

The Jacksons successfully advocated to get their baby home, yet DFPS unilaterally designated them as alleged perpetrators of medical neglect without providing them with an opportunity to be heard. This label continues to disrupt the Jacksons’ lives. The ACLU of Texas is suing DFPS for violating state and constitutional law.

The Jackson’s experience highlights how Black families are often unfairly targeted by a child welfare system that fails to respect their choices. It must end.