UNITED STATES
Hamilton and Griffin on Rights
Why is it important that predator priests’ files are exposed?
More than 30 US bishops – out of nearly 200 – have grudgingly posted partial lists of predator priests on their diocesan websites. But virtually none have voluntarily released their voluminous records about child sex crimes and cover ups.
Why should they?
Because, as the Bible tells us, “the truth shall set you free.”
Because, as Alcoholics Anonymous tells us, “we’re only as sick as our secrets.”
Because for decades, bishops have pledged to be “open and transparent” about this crisis.
Because since 2002, US bishops have claimed such “openness” is mandatory, as promised in the church’s first-ever belated, grudging nationwide abuse policy.
But here are the best reasons:
Because disclosing long-secret abuse and cover up records is the quickest, easiest, cheapest and most effective way to protect kids now. It’s a way to be sure that no proven, admitted or credibly accused abusive priest is still on the job today.
Because it’s the best way to deter future cover ups. For thousands of years, adults have known that most child sex crimes will never be exposed. So for thousands of years, many adults have not reported knowledge or suspicions of child sex crimes. Unless adults see that this is changing, and learn that even decades-old abuse cover ups are being exposed, many will continue to conceal child sex crimes.
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