Christian parents Daniel and Bianca Samson protested outside the Swedish Embassy in Washington, D.C., on Friday, seeking the return of their two daughters, Sara and Tiana, who were taken by Swedish authorities in December 2022. The case began when Sara, then 11, falsely accused her parents of abuse after an argument over makeup and smartphones. Despite Sara retracting her allegations and prosecutors finding no evidence of abuse, Swedish social services refused to return the girls, citing the family's religious practices—including attending church three times a week—as evidence of 'religious extremism.'
The Sampsons allege officials used their parenting choices, such as restricting nail polish and television, to justify the separation. The case has drawn international attention, with Romanian officials and supporters rallying in multiple cities, including Stockholm and London. The Romanian government has also expressed support for the family.