Topic: Foster Care

The foster care system is criticized for allegedly prioritizing federal funding and adoption fees over the welfare of families. Claims are made that children are five times more likely to be abused in foster homes than in their original homes. The removal of children from poor families is compared to historical eugenics programs and described as a form of bureaucratic tyranny.

Internal discussions about surrendering occurred throughout the siege, but many members, including Doyle, were leery of being shot while walking out. A video sent into the compound showing children in foster care horrified the mothers inside, as the children appeared to have lost their disciplined upbringing. This reinforced the group's hesitation to trust the government with the remaining children and adults.