One in five American children is sexually abused before their 18th birthday. It is a trauma that has a lifelong impact on its victims. Not only is the crime shockingly common, but consequences are shockingly rare. It is estimated that 90% of the people who sexually abuse children never see a day behind bars. Part of the reason for that shocking statistic is that children rarely disclose sexual abuse while they’re still children, and when they do, they often disclose to adults who don’t do the right thing. When they are able to face their trauma as adults, in many states, statutes of limitation on the crime prevent that.
The Catholic Church vehemently opposes statute of limitation reform. They fear to have their evil deeds and institutional coverups exposed. They have been very successful in delaying reform in many states, including Pennsylvania.
Against this grim backdrop, something unusual and inspiring has happened. Shaun Dougherty, an outspoken survivor of child sexual abuse in Pennsylvania and an outspoken advocate, is running for Pennsylvania State Senate to bring about needed changes.
Electing an outspoken survivor to office is essential. It is both a key to getting critical reforms passed and a key to elevating dialogue surrounding child sexual abuse.