A Call for Accountability
Why Faith Shouldn’t Shield the Guilty, and the Importance of Speaking Up Against Sexual Assault
My family is holding onto hope that justice will finally be served for one of our extended family members. I apologize for the vague nature of this post, but there are sensitive details I can’t disclose. Ultimately, this isn’t my story to tell.
Still, I feel a deep need to speak out against anyone who chooses to commit acts of sexual assault. In my view, it is one of the most despicable crimes imaginable, sometimes even more devastating than murder. Survivors are left carrying the weight of trauma, shame, and anguish for a lifetime. It’s a form of cruelty that robs people of their ability to live fully, often depriving them of happiness, productivity, and a sense of normalcy.
One of the most disturbing realizations I’ve had is that I personally know at least one in five people who have reported experiencing sexual assault or some form of inappropriate sexual behavior. And I know these are only the individuals who have found the courage to speak up. Unfortunately, it has become normalized not to discuss past sexual trauma because of the lingering pain, shame, and grief it brings. Far too many endure this suffering in silence, bearing a burden that should never have been theirs.
Recently, someone that I know from past found the courage to speak the truth, despite this truth being overshadowed by the perpetrator’s public image of “faith in God” and strong ties to the church. Somehow, this twisted association is seen as a form of redemption—a way to wipe the slate clean, as long as one attends church and contributes tithings. It’s appalling that this façade can protect someone from accountability, allowing them to hide behind a religious shield while the survivors continue to suffer.
Let me be clear: I’m not anti-church. I believe in accountability for everyone, regardless of faith. This particular individual and their family have often been quick to judge others for far less concerning transgressions, yet now they hide behind the church while more victims are finding the courage to come forward. It appears this person may have harmed multiple people, and I hope those affected will share their stories. I can’t imagine the bravery it takes to confront such trauma, but I hope this will snowball into a strong case that finally holds these evildoers accountable.
To those who defend such extreme evil: Stop being apologists for despicable actions. If you have any sense of compassion for humanity, do the right thing. Stop protecting this person. Show some decency, and stand up for what is right. Be a better human!
I’d comment more often if I didn’t have to sign in to do it. I can’t f***ng remember passwords and sign in's. I give up. I’ll send you separate emails instead.
Now, for whatever reason that I can’t fathom, I was required to do a sign in to leave this comment. I started out on my kindle and then moved to iPhone and responded to reminder to sign in and this became active.
If that’s the secret and I remember, I’ll do it next time. I do enjoy Beware of Larry—engaging writing and compelling g topics. And lots of mystery eggs dropped along The way.
Well done, Larry. BTW, I have my own abuse story—occurred as a child when I lived on Monahill. I won’t burden you with it, unless you ask..