A foster care advocate is contesting the account given by Rep. Nancy Mace, who reported being “physically accosted” by an individual arrested at the Capitol on Tuesday. Elliott Hinkle, the founder of Unicorn Solutions and an advocate for child welfare and LGBTQ youth, described an event where Mace spoke about the 25th anniversary of the Foster Care Independence Act.
During her remarks, Mace expressed a willingness to collaborate with advocates in attendance. Following her speech, James McIntyre, a co-founder of the Illinois chapter of Foster Care Alumni of America, approached her, extended his hand for a handshake, and shared a message regarding the need for support for trans youth who are also in foster care.
Hinkle observed that the interaction was amicable, noting McIntyre’s respectful demeanor and emphasis on support for vulnerable youth. As Mace left the room with a congressional staffer, Hinkle stated that the staffer returned to engage McIntyre for his name and his message for Mace.
However, moments later, U.S. Capitol Police arrived and eventually arrested McIntyre after interviewing him. Hinkle reiterated the normalcy of the interaction, describing it as a typical engagement for advocates. He remarked that Mace did not seem overly distressed during their handshake interaction.
Following the incident, Lisa Dickson, another advocate, expressed her disappointment in Mace for having an advocate arrested, stating that it contradicted her earlier declaration of creating a safe space for youth.
In her report to Capitol Police, Mace claimed that McIntyre had aggressively shaken her arm, causing her to feel intimidated, and noted pain in her wrist and shoulder afterward, though she declined medical assistance. Mace later took to social media, asserting she had been “physically accosted,” a remark that elicited mixed reactions.
McIntyre has been charged with assaulting a government official and pleaded not guilty through a court-appointed attorney. A judge has ordered that he maintain distance from Mace while releasing him with conditions.
This incident raises critical discussions around the treatment of advocates, the nuances of personal interactions in political spaces, and the importance of fostering safe environments for dialogue.
In light of the controversy, this moment offers an opportunity for deeper conversations about the support of marginalized youth, as well as the importance of ensuring that advocates can express their views without fear of repercussions. Despite the tension, continued engagement on such issues may ultimately lead to constructive discussions and efforts in the realm of foster care and rights for all youth.