June 20, 2006
Illinois Social Worker Investigates Family with Convictions Against Immunizations
An Illinois member family was contacted by a social worker one late afternoon with numerous allegations from an anonymous tipster. The family was shocked to hear the allegations included:
- That none of the children had been immunized;
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That one child was physically unable to swallow, and that parents had been forcing food down the child's throat.
- That the parents had been told that the child needed an operation, but refused to schedule one.
The family called Home School Legal Defense Association immediately for help.
HSLDA Attorney Chris Klicka explained to the social worker that the family had no child with any medical troubles, much less trouble swallowing. Regarding the allegations of no immunizations, Klicka told the social worker that there is no requirement in Illinois that immunizations are mandatory when a family has religious convictions.
Nevertheless, the social worker still demanded entrance into the home and requested an interview with the children.
Attorney Klicka sent a letter to the social worker reiterating the fact that the allegations were completely bogus, but backing his statements up with a promise that several reference letters were being sent to the social worker in defense of the family. Klicka also promised that the deputy sheriff would go through the family’s house and provide the social worker with a report of the condition of their living environment.
Klicka explained to the social worker that the family was standing on their Fourth Amendment right to not allow her entry into their home, or to interview their children. Since the social worker had already seen the children on her first visit, Klicka informed her that there was no need for an interview since it was obvious the children were well-adjusted and healthy.
After seeing all the proof of the family’s innocence, as well as being informed of the fact that the tip was made from a relative out of spite, the social worker has left the family alone.
 Other Resources
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The Social Worker At Your Door: 10 Helpful Hints (HSLDA members only document)
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