Re: “Step up, lawmakers, and pass bill to make clergy report abuse” (Feb. 4, Opinion):
State Sen. Noel Body is true — no extra compromise relating to crimes towards youngsters shared in confession.
I’m one in all 1000’s of kids who have been failed by the seal of confession. How ludicrous that clergymen would name this secrecy a “privilege.” The seal of confession protects abusers, not youngsters. If clergymen reported crimes towards youngsters and the perpetrator who dedicated the crime, the Catholic Church could be saving youngsters. It isn’t.
I used to be sexually abused by the parish priest. I informed a priest in confession about it. The crime was not reported. The perpetrator went on to sexually abuse dozens extra little ladies. He by no means spent a day in jail. The “priest privilege” to not report crimes doesn’t defend youngsters. Monks should be mandated reporters held to the identical requirements you and I are to report prison acts towards youngsters. Monks will not be above the regulation. It’s vital that Washington state protect the rule of regulation at a time when it seems to be diminishing on the federal stage.
I agree with the editorial, that is the second to make “what’s morally proper, legally proper.” Please vote sure on Senate Invoice 5375.
Mary Dispenza, Bellevue, Washington contact for SNAP (Survivors Community of these Abused by Monks)
