NHCADSV’s statement on Senate vote against a victim-centered settlement process for sexual assault survivors at YDC/Sununu Center

May 5, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: 
Amanda Grady Sexton (603) 548-9377, [email protected]

Today, the New Hampshire Senate voted 14-10 down party lines to approve a settlement process that is not comprehensive, and, in effect, disregards egregious abuse suffered by numerous sexual assault victims at the YDC/Sununu Center and its cover up over decades.
 
“To be clear: the bill that passed today is not victim-centered and does not seek to make victims whole. HB1677 fails hundreds of children who were abused by employees of the State of New Hampshire. The bill excludes many victims of sexual abuse and torture from even participating in the YDC/Sununu Center settlement process, and limits other victims from accessing the justice they deserve,” said Lyn Schollett, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
 
We encourage anyone who has been sexually or physically abused, no matter when the abuse occurred to seek confidential and compassionate support or information through one of the 12 member programs of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Caring advocates are available 24/7 through the Statewide Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline at 1-866-644-3574.
 
About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 12 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 12 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.