Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
As Delivered by Michèle Taylor
Human Rights Council – 51st Session
Thank you, Mr. Vice President.
And thank you, Chairperson Namakula, for your report from the Working Group today.
As part of our dedication to racial equity and justice domestically and globally, the U.S. calls for and commits to renewed efforts to mainstream approaches that mitigate the unique vulnerabilities faced by children of African descent in health, education, and quality of life.
Recognizing that Black children, youth, and families in the United States are disproportionately and adversely affected by child welfare systems at every point in the child welfare continuum, we are committed to identifying barriers and establishing policies to prevent unnecessary foster care placement, support families, and keep families together. As the daughter of a Holocaust survivor who was separated from her parents at the age of 3, I understand the generational trauma of children being ripped from their parents and its widespread effects.
The Biden-Harris Administration has also prioritized efforts to ensure equal educational opportunity for all students, including in K-12 schools, improve health outcomes for Black children and families, and transform public education with historic funding increases.
We welcome your continued partnership and ongoing dialogue on these critical issues to yield more equitable outcomes for children, youth, families, and communities of African descent globally, and we look forward to constructive engagement.
How can all states integrate policies that serve children of African descent in health, education, public safety, and all areas that affect their quality of life?
I thank you.
###