Personhood USA: Pelletier family to speak at the Massachusetts State House one year after Justina's release

BOSTON, June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Justina Pelletier and her family will hold their first public news conference since her release from Massachusetts state custody one year ago. The press conference will be held Thursday, June 18, at 12:00 P.M. in front of the Massachusetts State House on Beacon Street.

Justina Pelletier, who was 14 when she was removed from her home by Massachusetts officials, ignited a national debate and media firestorm regarding the role of parental rights and government intervention.

Justina returned to her home in West Hartford, Connecticut on June 18, 2014 after being unjustly held for 16 months. Personhood USA led a nationwide grassroots campaign to secure her release.

The Pelletiers will discuss their challenges as a family over the past year, their efforts in Washington, D.C. and across the nation to protect children and parental rights, the horrible treatment of Justina by the State of Massachusetts, and future plans to protect families in similar situations.

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Pelletier family spokesperson and spiritual advisor, said: "The Justina Pelletier case ignited a national political firestorm and debate on the role of parental authority and government intervention. The debate still rages one year after Justina was returned back to the loving arms of her family."

Keith Mason, President of Personhood USA, stated: "The damage done to Justina during the 16 months she was held by the State of Massachusetts is still affecting Justina and her family, and stands a powerful reminder about government treating human beings as property rather than persons."

The Pelletiers plan to dedicate their lives to ensure that no family in America ever has to endure the pain and tragedy they have experienced, and to work for laws and policies that will safeguard our nation's families.

SOURCE Personhood USA

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