Approximately 60,000 Survivors Speak Out About Abuse Within the Boy Scouts—Let’s Discuss

artificial insemination kit for humans

In the whirlwind of recent news—from the latest COVID-19 updates to holiday preparations—one crucial story has barely registered on the public radar. The troubling revelation that around 60,000 survivors of sexual abuse have reached a settlement with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) feels like a mere footnote amid the chaos. It’s time to change that narrative and bring this issue to the forefront.

According to an article by AP News, the settlement will provide victims with approximately $850 million from BSA. While this figure is staggering, the coverage surrounding it has failed to adequately honor the experiences of the survivors or hold accountable those who facilitated these atrocities—specifically, the predators and the volunteers who enabled their behavior for decades. Yes, you read that correctly—decades. Allegations of sexual abuse have been reported to the Boy Scouts as far back as the 1940s. Clearly, BSA has been more invested in concealing these scandals than in implementing measures to prevent them.

To understand how we arrived at this point, let’s rewind a bit. In 2010, the Boy Scouts faced a significant legal defeat, resulting in an $18.5 million payout to one victim of sexual abuse. This was just one of many legal battles that ultimately led to BSA filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. How did it come to this? As reported by the LA Times, BSA has been tracking ineligible volunteers since 1919, albeit with questionable diligence. Shockingly, at least 125 volunteers accused of abuse were allowed to maintain contact with children during investigations. This raises an alarming question: why do institutions like these fail to protect the very communities they claim to serve?

Now, back to the recent settlement. This agreement stands as one of the largest related to sexual abuse to date. While some legal representatives deem the settlement reasonable, many argue it falls short of true justice. How can any amount of money truly compensate for the deep-seated trauma that survivors endure? One claimant, Tom Reed, shared his sentiment: “What happened to us is a scar that will never fade.” For many, given that some allegations date back several decades, this financial settlement may be the closest they get to a sense of justice.

There is a significant stigma surrounding discussions of sexual abuse, particularly for men. Could this be why the media coverage has been so muted? The unfortunate reality is that the less we talk about the abuse within the Boy Scouts, the more comfortable we allow ourselves to be, ignoring the struggles of the victims. We must amplify their stories, even if it makes us uncomfortable. It is essential to create space for survivors and ensure their voices are heard.

Equally frustrating is how the settlement has been reported. Much of the coverage focuses on statistics—how many survivors have come forward and the payout amount. However, a critical question remains: what steps are the Boy Scouts taking to prevent future abuse? What measures are being implemented to protect young members who look up to their leaders? How can we ensure that parents feel secure in allowing their children to participate in this longstanding tradition?

This isn’t about condemning the Boy Scouts as a whole. Many individuals have had positive and meaningful experiences within the organization. It’s crucial to retain the enjoyable aspects of scouting—such as fundraising activities and skill-building events—while prioritizing the safety of all participants. The leadership must no longer rely on ignorance as an excuse.

For more insights on this topic, check out our other blog post here. Explore more about at-home insemination kits with resources from Make a Mom and Medline Plus for comprehensive information.

Summary:

The recent settlement involving around 60,000 survivors of sexual abuse by the Boy Scouts of America highlights a significant issue that has been inadequately covered by the media. While the settlement amount is substantial, it doesn’t equate to the justice these survivors deserve. Awareness and discussion about the trauma of abuse, particularly in male victims, are crucial. Moving forward, it’s essential for the Boy Scouts to prioritize safety measures and accountability within their organization.