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ELIZABETH SMART

Smart Family Statement

Friday, June 28, 2002

Every day 314 attempted non-family abductions occur in the United States. As a family, we have become painfully aware that each one of these children belongs to a family. We are so grateful for all of the help we have received. Because of the extensive help given on Elizabeth's behalf, some have questioned why she has received so much more attention than other abducted children have. No child, whether playing in the park, standing at a bus stop or sleeping in her own bed should have to endure this horrific ordeal. Elizabeth's kidnapping, however, in some ways epitomizes the most outrageous violation of our sense of personal security.

Elizabeth was blessed with ideal circumstances: careful, loving parents, a strong family, an obedient and modest character, a locked home, a safe supportive neighborhood and a witness to the crime. If Elizabeth could be taken, it could happen to any one of our children. Over and over again, volunteers have simply explained, "I have a child too." Elizabeth has become everyone's child and neighbor. Like September 11th, it has made us realize how vulnerable we are on a very personal level.

In addition to our vulnerability, some of the other lessons from September 11th that resound anew in our hearts are: There is a very real, unseen enemy. We need the help and protection of a higher power. We need each other.

Love and time heal many things, but Elizabeth is still missing and there are 13 attempted abductions every hour. The English statesman and champion of human rights, Edmund Burke stated: "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."

Together, we must declare war against those who would harm or abduct our children. We must draw the line and resolve that we will not allow this to continue. We will not give up pursuing the perpetrators of such crimes.

Tie a light blue ribbon (Elizabeth's favorite color) around your trees, homes and neighborhoods. This was originally a sign of hope for Elizabeth. Now we ask that you do it on behalf of every missing child as a symbol of our determination to stop this injustice.

We will not live in fear.
We are watching.
We are united.
We are praying.
We will never ever give up.
We are all family.

All About Me – by Elizabeth Smart – 9/5/02

Smart Family Statement - 6/28/02

Smart Family response to charges filed 3/18/03

Jessie Davis

Lisa Stebic

Tara Grinstead

Pamela Kinney

LaToyia Figueroa

Natalee Holloway

Lori Hacking

Brooke Wilberger

Dru Kathrina Sjodin

Kristine Johnson

Laci Peterson

Elizabeth Smart

Chandra Levy

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