Paris Hilton gives opening statement in child abuse hearing

When I was 16 years old, I was ripped from my bed in the middle of the night and transported across state lines. To the first of four youth residential treatment facilities, these programs promised healing, growth and support. But instead did not allow me to speak, move freely or even lookout a window. For two years I was force fed medications and sexually abused by the staff. I was violently restrained and dragged down hallways, stripped naked and thrown into solitary confinement. My parents were completely deceived, lied to and manipulated by this for profit industry about the inhumane treatment I was experiencing. Today residential facilities are continuing to warehouse over 50,000 foster years. An unknown number of adopted youth in lockdown facilities innocent kids who have not committed crimes. Kids whose parents didn't have resources to support them. Kids whose parents passed away. Kids who have already experienced trauma, this $23 billion a year industry. Sees this population as dollar signs and operates without meaningful oversight. Progress isn't an option anymore, it's a life or death responsibility. If you are a child in the system, hear my words. I see you. I believe you. I know what you're going through and I won't give up on you.