Platform Committee to Protect Children and Support Survivors Goals

• Reform the statutes of limitations that govern redress for victims of childhood sexual abuse and support legislation for mandatory reporting of child abuse.

• Educate ourselves and others as to the grievous impact of sexual abuse, and promote a better understanding of the epidemic of child sexual abuse in our society.

• Support and collaborate with other organizations to expand child abuse prevention education and awareness programs in both Catholic environments and the broader communities.

One of the committee’s initiatives is to develop a comprehensive advocacy guide to help those who engage in legislative efforts that can provide victims/survivors of child sexual abuse with a reasonable time period in which to seek legal relief, including a one-time option for those victims/survivors presently barred under applicable statutes of limitation. 

Another initiative will involve providing online support and resources for victims and education for the public and our members.

The Committee also plans to increase community awareness of the need to protect children and to educate adults to recognize the signs of abuse.

More details will follow when the full Strategic Plan is rolled out shortly, including an opportunity for members to join in these and other Strategic Plan initiatives.