Justice

Today, thoughts about what justice means for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse (CSA) and other Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE.)

There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.

Elie Wiesel, Holocaust Survivor, author, professor, activist, Nobel Peace Prize recipient

I am reading the news about the Boy Scouts of America’s settlement with the 84,000 men, who experienced Childhood Sexual Abuse while participating in BSA activities as children. Wall Street Journal Article, June 18, 2021. Although 84,000 have filed claims against the BSA, the number of boys abused while in the BSA is likely significantly higher. As I read these stories of BSA’s bankruptcy maneuver, structured to avoid civil suits brought by Survivors, I feel sickened by the ease with which an organization like the BSA is able to protect itself, after failing to protect the children entrusted to their care. My heart goes out to the Survivors who are braving the scrutiny and the revictimization of the process.

It took tremendous courage to tell another person about being sexually abused as a child. It was a very hard thing to do. I did so because I believed that in telling my story, and removing the pedophile who sexually abused me from teaching and from coaching sports, I could save other girls from being victimized. I have deep respect for the countless women and men who have found the courage to stand up for children present and future. They were powerless as children and now are among the adults who will protest the injustice they themselves suffered.

• What do you want to do to make a difference for others?
• Where do you find courage to stand against injustice?