It is now nearly impossible to hear about Penn State without thinking of the Jerry Sandusky scandal. Pennsylvanians in the town of State College would probably like to move on and to rebuild the once stellar reputation of a place nicknamed Happy Valley, but doing so will not be easy or quick. Within the framework […]
Many of our posts in recent months have focused on the ongoing clergy sexual abuse scandals in Philadelphia and other parts of the state. Sadly, the disturbing and frequent incidents of child sexual abuse allegedly perpetrated by priests are a problem that spreads far beyond the borders of Pennsylvania. So too, are the alleged cover-ups […]
Soloff and Zervanos supports the efforts being undertaken in Harrisburg to improve the protection of children from sexual abuse. The package of bills being prepared by Pennsylvania legislators to include steps to redefine the legal definition of child abuse so that it encompasses more acts of injustice and exploitation previously not considered as child abuse. This […]
In matters of child sexual abuse, silence breeds shame, fear and anger. Conversely, victims who break the silence by reporting what has happened to them are often able to heal and to help other victims come forward. When former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was charged and ultimately convicted of sexually abusing dozens […]
President John F. Kennedy once said that “the hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of great moral crisis maintain their neutrality.” We are in a time of great moral crisis: an epidemic of sexual abuse committed against children. Regardless of their particular religious beliefs, most Pennsylvanians would agree that if […]
Most celebrities give money and endorsement to various charities and causes at some point. Most of the time, however, it seems as though celebrities choose charities/causes that are entire without controversy and easy to discuss publicly. Such causes are certainly worth supporting, but neither celebrities nor regular Americans should shy away from other important causes […]
Sex crimes against children are considered to be among the most reprehensible transgressions a person can make. Such offenses are judged as beyond the pale even by other criminals. It is telling that inmates convicted of child sexual abuse must often be kept separate from other inmates for their own protection. A recent incident making international news […]
For the last few decades, safety advocates have been trying to warn kids about “stranger danger.” Children are warned that they should never talk to or accept rides/candy from an adult they don’t know. These well-meaning warnings are an effort to prevent child abductions and child sex abuse. While this is good advice, it ignores […]
Since he took on the role some nine months ago, Pope Francis has proven to be exceedingly popular with Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Many believe his leadership will change the face of Catholicism and show it to be kinder, gentler, more inclusive and less judgmental than in the past. But even supporters of Pope Francis […]
In recent decades, the Catholic Church’s reputation has been tarnished by a continuous wave of sexual abuse scandals. The cases in a given area of the country often start with a single allegation, which then gives other victims the courage to come forward. And despite criminal investigations, civil lawsuits and landmark settlements, allegations continue to […]