300 New Orleans priests were reported for sexual abuse – only 25% are on archdiocese’s ‘credibly accused’ list
300 New Orleans priests were reported for sexual abuse – only 25% are on archdiocese’s credibly accused list The Guardian
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More than 300 People Employed by Roman Catholic Institutions in New Orleans Accused of Sexual Abuse
Introduction
Secret documents obtained by the Guardian reveal that over 300 people employed by Roman Catholic institutions in New Orleans have been accused of sexually abusing children or other vulnerable individuals over the past several decades. This article will discuss the findings of these documents and highlight the importance of addressing these issues in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Background
The New Orleans archdiocese, which has a history of managing the fallout from the Catholic Church’s clerical molestation scandal, has been secretive about the exact number of individuals under its supervision who have been named in abuse claims. However, a memorandum prepared by attorneys for victims of clerical sexual abuse sheds light on the extent of the problem in the region.
Findings of the Memorandum
The memorandum provides evidence of numerous accused abusers working in the region over the past five decades. It also reveals that the archdiocese has only considered a quarter of the allegations against its clergymen to be credibly accused, which is significantly lower than research estimates for false or unprovable claims. Furthermore, the archdiocese has referred fewer than two dozen accused clerics to law enforcement, often waiting nearly two decades to do so.
Importance of Sustainable Development Goals
These findings highlight the urgent need to address sexual abuse within religious institutions and align with several Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being – Protecting vulnerable individuals from abuse and ensuring their physical and mental well-being.
- Goal 5: Gender Equality – Addressing gender-based violence and promoting equal rights for all individuals.
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities – Ensuring justice and accountability for survivors of abuse, regardless of their background or social status.
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Strengthening legal systems to effectively investigate and prosecute cases of sexual abuse.
Concerns and Omissions
The memorandum also raises concerns about the archdiocese’s handling of abuse claims. It reveals that numerous priests and deacons who worked within the archdiocese are not included on its credibly accused roster, despite being named on similar lists published by other dioceses or religious institutions. Additionally, the archdiocese has been slow to refer information about abuse to law enforcement, with an average delay of 17 years.
Response and Financial Considerations
The New Orleans archdiocese, currently undergoing bankruptcy proceedings, has not provided a response to the Guardian’s inquiries. However, Archbishop Gregory Aymond issued a statement emphasizing the organization’s commitment to strengthening programs aimed at protecting children and vulnerable adults. The archdiocese has faced criticism for its financial management, with significant expenses incurred for legal and consulting fees, while abuse survivors have yet to receive compensation.
Conclusion
The sexual abuse allegations within the New Orleans archdiocese underscore the importance of addressing these issues in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and safety of vulnerable individuals and ensure justice for survivors of abuse.
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In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453. In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In Australia, children, young adults, parents, and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts on 1800 272 831, and adult survivors can contact Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – The article discusses sexual abuse of children and vulnerable people, which is a violation of their rights and contributes to gender inequality.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The article highlights the issue of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church and the lack of accountability and transparency in addressing these abuses.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres – The article addresses the issue of sexual abuse, which is a form of violence against vulnerable individuals.
- SDG 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels – The article highlights the lack of transparency and accountability within the Catholic Church in addressing sexual abuse allegations.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- No specific indicators are mentioned in the article. However, progress towards SDG 5.2 can be measured by tracking the number of reported cases of sexual abuse and the actions taken to address them. Progress towards SDG 16.6 can be measured by assessing the transparency and accountability mechanisms within institutions, such as the Catholic Church, in handling sexual abuse allegations.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
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Source: theguardian.com
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