Prevent Child Abuse Iowa Responds to Penn State Tragedy

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 Des Moines, IA —

The recent tragedy at Penn State has highlighted one of the most heinous of crimes, one considered so taboo in our culture that we often want to ignore it altogether.  Yet, child sexual abuse occurs across the country, throughout institutions, and knows no boundaries based on class, education, religion, or ethnicity.

The country is outraged. There is an outpouring of support and grief for the victims and their families. However, no amount of sadness, anger or regret can reverse the pain and suffering of these children. Numerous people failed to protect the most vulnerable, and their failures should serve as an awakening to every American.  We must do better to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

Child sexual abuse can be prevented through education, which is a catalyst to empower people to take action. Education can help parents recognize the warning signs of a potential perpetrator and keep their children out of possible harm. Education can help community members identify child sexual abuse if they’re confronted with the warning signs and contact the authorities.

Child sexual abuse can be prevented through institutional policies. Child-serving organizations must proactively establish policies that eliminate the opportunities a perpetrator has to be alone with a child. Policies should also reinforce that the safety of children is the primary responsibility of every staff member.

This is a call to action. We must protect our children; there is no loyalty that is worth the sacrifice of a child’s wellbeing. We cannot afford to forget the pain and suffering that is occurring at Penn State. We must acknowledge the tragedy that happened there could happen elsewhere unless we confront child sexual abuse together, in our families, communities and businesses.