In 2018 the lives of multiple women who were abused by Bill Hybels were affected when Global Leadership Network, then Willow Creek Association, used its influence and resources to besmirch their character in defense of Bill Hybels, in order to save their global brand and reputation. This was a message to all survivors of sexual harrassment, sexual misconduct, and clergy sex abuse that their suffering and their lives do not matter.

GLN has never publicly apologized to the women affected or examined its culpability in platforming and protecting known perpetrators of clergy sex abuse. As the Global Leadership Summit continues to recover from decreased attendance without fully owning the damage of GLN's complicity with Bill Hybels abuse, that same message is sent to Survivors - that they do not matter.

As the 2023 Global Leadership Summit takes place, now is the time to send a strong message that true leadership is found in supporting Survivors, conducting a full evaluation of leadership failures, making public apologies and restitution, and implementing justice oriented changes. Send the message that Survivors Matter!