15 Ways the Mormon Church Can Better Protect Children
Hi everyone, I'm Dives, and today we're tackling a crucial issue that transcends faith: child safety. With nearly a decade of experience in $exual assault prevention and survivor advocacy, I've seen firsthand the complex challenges survivors face. When a large institution like the Mormon Church continues to mishandle child safety, it's a call to action.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a well-documented, troubling history of abuse, not just by clergy, but by members, leaders, and teachers. While some progress has been made, it's clear that much more is needed.
In this video, I outline 15 practical, evidence-based reforms the LDS Church can implement *right now* to genuinely protect children. This isn't about criticism for criticism's sake; it's about advocating for best practices rooted in advocacy and survivor support.
Here’s a glimpse of what we'll cover:
* Ending Closed-Door Bishop Interviews: Why private interviews about $exual matters with youth, especially those as young as 11, must stop.
* Two-Deep Leadership: The non-negotiable principle that no adult should ever be alone with a child.
* Reforming the "Abuse Helpline": Why the current system, staffed by legal counsel, falls short and how it can become truly survivor-centered.
* Mandatory, In-Depth Clergy Training: Moving beyond insufficient online modules to comprehensive, professional training for all leaders.
* Hiring Child Safety Officers: Implementing full-time, independent advocates at the Stake level.
* Mandatory Background Checks: A no-brainer reform that's long overdue for all leaders.
* Changing Rhetoric Around Survivor: Shifting from survivor-blaming to unwavering support and belief.
* Teaching Clear Consent: Going beyond chastity discussions to explicit lessons on boundaries and bodily autonomy.
* Advocating for Stronger Laws: Using the Church's influence to push for real legal reform.
* Empowering Women in Leadership: Why increasing women's authority is critical for safety and disclosure.
* Stopping Perpetrator Defense: Redirecting tithing funds from legal defense to survivor support.
* Addressing Rape-Affirming Scriptures: Confronting problematic passages that enable a culture of $exual violence.
* Creating Independent Oversight: Establishing an external committee for true accountability.
* Implementing a Survivor Compensation Fund: Providing financial justice for survivors.
* Publicly Acknowledging the Problem: Breaking the silence and taking full institutional responsibility.
Child safety is not controversial; it's the absolute minimum. As an advocate, I believe this isn't about tearing down faith, but calling it to live up to its highest values. Protecting children is paramount. The Mormon Church has the resources and the ability to be a global leader in child safety – it just requires humility and genuine change.
To any survivor watching: I believe you. You are not alone. And you deserve justice.
Thank you for watching. Please share this video to help raise awareness and push for vital reforms.
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