Immigrant parents and DPJ: protecting your family with full knowledge of the facts
Rigaud Saint-Amour T.S ·
When a report is made to the DPJ, parents retain their rights.
Being a parent in a new country can represent a challenge. Between cultural differences and social rules, it is sometimes difficult to know how to act for the well-being of one's children.
However, as a fundamental principle reminds us: "Ignorance of the law is no excuse." This article aims to inform immigrant parents about their rights, their duties and possible recourse when they are confronted with the Direction de la protection de la jeunesse (DPJ).
What is the DPJ?
The Direction de la protection de la jeunesse (DPJ) is a Quebec public organization that intervenes when a child's safety or development is compromised. Its mission is to protect children whose development and safety are compromised or at risk of being compromised. All its decisions are guided by the best interest of the child and aim to maintain family bonds when possible.
For immigrant parents, it is important to understand that the DPJ can be a partner during difficult times, by offering help and adapted resources.
Why does the DPJ intervene in a family?
The 7 grounds for compromise (According to article 38 of the LPJ): The Youth Protection Act identifies seven situations where a child may be considered in danger or at risk: Abandonment: The child is left without care or supervision. A woman left her country because of war and crossed more than ten countries before arriving in Quebec. During her journey, she was raped and became pregnant. Finding herself homeless in Montreal due to mental health problems, she left her child at the hospital after giving birth. Neglect: Essential needs (lack of food, clothing, schooling, supervision, affection, hygiene, health, etc.) are not met.
Parents do not give their children lunch to go to school or do not dress them according to the weather for several days. Psychological maltreatment: When parents humiliate, threaten, denigrate or isolate a child.
Parents stressed by their child's bad grades repeatedly tell him that he "is worthless." Parents regularly threaten the child with abandoning him or sending him back to his country of origin. Sexual abuse: Any form of sexual exploitation or assault, with or without contact. A little girl goes to her aunt's house and her cousin touches her breasts or shows her inappropriate images on her mother's phone.
Physical abuse: Corporal violence or excessive punishment. A parent hits his son with a belt, leaving marks, to help him memorize his lessons. A child reports that his parents hit him when he doesn't listen to them or when his school results are not satisfactory.
Serious behavioral problems: The child endangers his safety or that of others. A 14-year-old teenager comes home late after school or uses drugs with his friends.
Exposure to domestic violence: The child witnesses or is indirectly exposed to violence between his parents. A girl sees her father hit her mother and seems worried at home. She shows a tendency toward isolation, reluctance to share her experiences and not inviting friends home, which may indicate the presence of a family secret.
Knowing these grounds allows parents to adopt safe behaviors and prevent DPJ interventions in family life.
Parents' rights
When a report is made to the DPJ, parents retain their rights. They have the right:
• to be informed of the DPJ's procedures;
• to participate in decisions concerning their child;
• to access court documents;
• to be represented by a lawyer if they wish;
• to contest decisions before the court.
These rights allow parents to make their voice heard and ensure that the measures taken are fair and in the interest of their child. It is essential to exercise them fully to protect one's family.
Parents' duties
Parents also have duties toward their children: ensuring their safety, development and well-being. They must collaborate with the DPJ and respect court decisions.
By respecting these duties, parents contribute to creating a healthy and stable environment for their children. Participating in support programs offered by the DPJ and following the recommendations of workers can greatly improve the family situation.
Possible recourse for parents
If a parent disagrees with a DPJ decision, several recourses are possible:
• request a review;
• refer to the Youth Chamber;
• file a complaint with the Complaints Commissioner;
• be accompanied by a lawyer or community organization.
Protecting your family means first getting informed. Knowing your rights, your duties and your recourse regarding the DPJ gives you the power to act with confidence. Collaboration and dialogue are your best allies to ensure the safety and well-being of your children, while preserving strong family bonds.
Rigaud Saint-Amour, t.s. Doctor in Marriage and Family Counseling Institut Impact International
Tel: (514) 800-8738
Email: rigaudsaintamour@institutimpactinternational.com