A foster care advocate has contested Representative Nancy Mace’s claim that she was “physically accosted” by James McIntyre, a man arrested at the Capitol during an event celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Foster Care Independence Act. Elliott Hinkle, the founder of Unicorn Solutions and advocate for child welfare and LGBTQ youth, asserts that McIntyre’s interaction with Mace was benign, involving a handshake and a brief conversation about the needs of transgender youth in foster care.
According to Hinkle, McIntyre, who co-founded a chapter of the Foster Care Alumni of America in Illinois, approached Mace after her speech, expressing the need for support for transgender foster youth. Hinkle noted that the encounter seemed normal and that Mace had a relatively mild reaction, appearing only slightly surprised before leaving the room.
However, following this interaction, a congressional staff member returned to ask McIntyre for his name and message for Mace. Shortly thereafter, U.S. Capitol Police arrived and arrested McIntyre. The police have confirmed that McIntyre was charged with assaulting a government official after an investigation, though details of the incident differ significantly based on witness accounts.
Mace recounted to officers that McIntyre had shaken her arm in a manner that made her feel intimidated. She reported experiencing pain following the alleged encounter but declined medical assistance at the scene. In her statements on social media, Mace described the incident as an assault and asserted that media outlets were misrepresenting her experience.
In a statement on social media, former foster youth Lisa Dickson expressed disappointment in Mace for her actions, suggesting that the event, meant to promote safety and support for youth, was undermined by the situation.
McIntyre, who remains in custody, has pleaded not guilty, with a judge ordering him to maintain distance from Mace while releasing him under specific conditions.
This incident sheds light on the complexities within the foster care system and the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ youth. It serves as a reminder of the vital conversations surrounding support for marginalized communities, particularly in legislative spaces where advocates and officials gather.
With the ongoing dialogue regarding the rights and acknowledgment of all youth within the foster care system, this incident may inspire greater awareness and continued advocacy for a more inclusive approach to support and legislation.