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April 1, 2020
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton (603) 548-9377 The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is grateful to Governor Sununu for authorizing the Emergency Protections and Relief Funds for Domestic and Sexual Violence Organizations. “This critical relief recognizes the severe impact that the COVID-19 crisis has on survivors of domestic and sexual violence in New Hampshire. Domestic violence victims are under intense pressure at this time due to stay at home requirements, severe isolation, and the financial impact of this pandemic. Through this potentially life-saving Executive Order, survivors will be safer from violence and abuse,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. This order provides emergency funds to help shelter victims, support their immediate needs, and provide critical funding to maintain crisis centers’ operations in order to stay open and meet the needs of victims. On behalf of the Coalition’s 13 member programs, we thank Governor Sununu for this swift and bold action. Through this order, New Hampshire can continue to support the needs of survivors of abuse during this unprecedented time. If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or abuse you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org. CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-866-644-3574 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-277-5570 About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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.
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Rates of Domestic Violence Expected to Increase in New Hampshire During Coronavirus Crisis3/29/2020 March 30, 2020
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, (603) 548-9377 The news and ever-changing circumstances of the coronavirus crisis is distressing, especially for those who may not be safe in their own home. As families remain in isolation with increased stressors such as school closures and financial insecurity, the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence expects to see the incidents of domestic violence and child abuse increase. “We know from what we have already seen across the globe, it’s not a matter of if domestic violence will increase during this crisis, but by how much it will increase. Will we see a rise of 30% or will we see incidents completely skyrocket as they did in Wuhan during the quarantines? It’s alarming to know that so many survivors, who would ordinarily have the time and space away from their abuser to make a call and set up a safety plan, no longer have the opportunity to do that. There’s no reprieve, their every moment is being watched,” said Pamela Keilig, Public Policy Specialist of the Coalition. “The rates globally are accelerating at an enormous pace, but they reflect only the victims who can reach out or where we see police intervention. Sadly, what we are seeing across the world, is probably just the tip of the iceberg.” Though quarantining is keeping families safer from the COVID-19 virus, it is an incredibly stressful time for even the healthiest of families. In families where the dynamics of coercion and abuse already exist the danger of violence is greatly elevated. “Many abusers have lost jobs, are increasing substance use, and are suddenly having to care for children around the clock. These experiences are never an excuse for domestic violence or sexual abuse, but it is a volatile mixture,” said Pamela Keilig. It is well known that abusers use emotional and physical abuse to isolate and manipulate victims. The shelter-in-place order during the coronavirus crisis gives them a built-in excuse to further isolate their partners and establish control. We are seeing more and more stories each day about domestic violence that may be quarantine related. Additionally, the continued call for the release of prisoners to protect them from coronavirus adds another layer of anxiety for victims who are worried that their abuser or perpetrator may be released early, and without warning. It is vital that the impact on crime victims be a priority as decisions are being made during these unprecedented times. Despite the closures of so many businesses, advocates at the 13 member programs of the Coalition are still available 24/7 to help survivors get the support and resources they need to keep themselves and their children safe. Courts are still open for restraining orders and other emergencies. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, who are trained through the Coalition’s SANE Program are still ready to help survivors who may have been sexually abused. Though in-person advocacy at New Hampshire’s crisis centers, for the most part, has been temporarily reduced and may look different, the networks that exist to support and keep survivors safe are still in place. Many people have asked what they can do to help survivors and crisis centers at this time. One of the major issues the Coalition's member programs are facing is the cancellation of all major spring fundraisers that they rely on for funding. If people can make donations at this time to their local crisis center, that support is truly needed right now. "As this situation continues, and after the quarantine is over, there will be a lot of work for advocates to do to help the survivors and their children who have experienced or witnessed abuse,” said Pamela Keilig. “Our member programs will be ready, but they will need support from their communities.” If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or abuse you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org. CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-866-644-3574 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-277-5570 About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. NHCADSV STATEMENT ON COVID-19 AND CONTINUITY OF SERVICES FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC & SEXUAL VIOLENCE3/16/2020 March 20, 2020
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, (603) 548-9377 As the situation with COVID-19 evolves, the 13 member programs of NHCADSV are committed to ensuring the safety and health of survivors of domestic and sexual violence. In order to reduce the potential transmission of COVID-19, in-person advocacy service availability at the Coalition member programs may be reduced at this time. We encourage anyone who may be seeking in-person advocacy to call our statewide hotlines to find out about current status of those services. Despite potential changes to in-person advocacy services at our 13 member programs, our free and confidential statewide hotlines remain available. Domestic and sexual violence advocates are on-call 24/7 to listen, provide information and referrals, and help survivors get the help, care and support they need. As of this time, we foresee no disruptions to our statewide hotline services. Although NH courts are closed for most in-person hearings, they remain open for victims who are seeking protective orders and other emergency hearings. Hospitals continue to provide medical care and forensic evidence collection to victims of assault and abuse. And trained, confidential advocates remain available to support victims through these processes. The news and ever-changing circumstances of COVID-19 can be distressing for many, especially those who may not feel safe in their own home. As people are spending more time at home and living with uncertainty and increased stressors such as school closures and financial insecurity, the risk of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse may increase. We also understand, that victims of both domestic violence and sexual assault may potentially feel reluctant to seek out medical care at emergency rooms at this time, fearing the risk of transmission of COVID-19. The Coalition and our member programs are committed to ensuring that survivors, who may be under increased pressure and potentially increased danger during this time, continue to have access to support and safety. Survivors can always call their local crisis center to safety plan around their personal circumstances so that they can be safe from violence and abuse and get the care that they need. The Coalition is working with our state and national partners, as well as our federal delegation on this emergent issue. We will continue to update the public as NHCADSV and our member programs work to ensure survivors’ safety and access to services, while reducing the risk of transmission of the COVID-19 virus. CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-866-644-3574 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-277-5570 About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. March 13, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton (603) 548-9377, amanda@nhcadsv.org The NH Senate’s Disappointing Vote Against Closing the So-Called “Howie Leung Loophole” Last night the Senate voted against closing the loopholes in New Hampshire’s sexual assault laws brought to light as a result of the case against Primo “Howie” Leung, a former teacher at Concord High School and camp counselor in Newton, Massachusetts. Last year many citizens in Concord were shocked to learn that adults working at schools and summer camps in New Hampshire are legally permitted to have sexual penetration with teens as young as 16 who they hold a position of authority over. Advocacy from these citizens led to the introduction of HB1240 in the House, and SB468, and SB572 in the Senate. Although the House unanimously approved a comprehensive reform bill this week, 13 Senators voted against reform and instead passed a watered-down version of a bill that only provides protections against a narrow group of adults who have authority over minors. This bill falls stunningly short of closing the so-called “Howie Leung Loophole,” and still allows gymnastics teachers, camp counselors, scout leaders, and faith leaders to have sexual contact or penetration with 16-year-olds under their direct care or supervision. Howie Leung stands trial for committing sexual crimes against a child while working as a camp counselor in MA, yet this bill fails to criminalize sexual contact or penetration between an adult camp counselor and their 16 year old camper in the State of New Hampshire. In addition, the amended bill also leaves in place the outdated notion that a prosecutor must prove coercion to show that an adult in a position of authority sexually abused a child, when the most common tactics used by abusers are emotional pressure, shame and blame. Finally, the bill still allows those working in schools to use the defense that a student “consented” to sexual contact in order to escape their crimes. “Adults in New Hampshire, regardless of their employment status or job description, must be held accountable and should not be allowed to manipulate their position of authority over the youth in their care. Youth in New Hampshire have a right to learn and develop new skills in safe learning and recreational environments without having to worry about being sexually exploited by trusted adults. No teenager should ever have to worry about how to handle inappropriate advances from the very people who are charged with protecting or educating them. We urge the House to protect all kids by re-writing this flawed bill.” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Public Affairs Director for the Coalition. The Coalition would like to express its gratitude to Senator Jeb Bradley, who introduced a floor amendment to address the deficiencies in this bill. We would like to also thank Senator Sharon Carson, Senator David Starr, Senator Bob Giuda, Senator Shannon Chandley, Senator James Gray, Senator Harold French, Senator John Reagan, Senator Regina Birdsell, Senator Chuck Morse, and Senator Ruth Ward for their support of Senator Bradley’s efforts to pass comprehensive legislation. We encourage anyone who has been sexually or physically abused, no matter when the abuse occurred, to come forward to seek confidential and compassionate support or information through one of the 13 member programs of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Caring advocates are available 24/7 at the Coalition’s statewide hotline at 1-800-277-5570. About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. March 11, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton (603) 548-9377, amanda@nhcadsv.org RE: NHCADSV Statement on decision by the NH Department of Justice to launch full investigation into Youth Development Center abuse case The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is grateful to the Department of Justice for bringing an unprecedented number of criminal justice resources to conduct the investigation into the Youth Development Center (YDC) and the pending cases of State v. Jeffrey Buskey and State v. Stephen Murphy. “By bringing the full force of NH’s law enforcement resources to carefully investigate every claim of abuse and assault that has come to light, we are hopeful that the state can seek justice for any survivor who has suffered egregious harm while under the state’s supervision,” said Lyn Schollett, the Executive Director of the Coalition. We know that it is not unusual for perpetrators to seek out children who are vulnerable and who have challenges, and children who are under the care of institutions like YDC are particularly vulnerable to abuse. We also know that many survivors of child sexual abuse commonly never tell anyone about being assaulted until later in life, with the average age of 52 as the age of disclosure. Often, only as adults, do survivors feel safe enough to tell someone and have the emotional support they need or have a true understanding of the abuse that occurred. We often hear from survivors of childhood sexual abuse that they chose to come forward so that other victims don’t feel alone, or so that no other children suffer from the same abuse they experienced We encourage anyone who has been sexually or physically abused, no matter when the abuse occurred, to come forward to seek confidential and compassionate support or information through one of the 13 member programs of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Caring advocates are available 24/7 at NH’s statewide hotline at 1-800-277-5570. In addition, the NH Department of Justice urges any person with information regarding criminal conduct at the YDC to contact Sergeant Justin Rowe of the New Hampshire State Police at (603) 223-8849 or justin.rowe@dos.nh.gov or Investigator James Kinney at the Attorney General’s Office at (603) 271-1258 or email: james.kinney@doj.nh.gov. About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. March 11, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton (603) 548-9377, amanda@nhcadsv.org RE: Statement on so-called “Howie Leung Loophole” bills. Coalition applauds unanimous passage of HB1240 and urges the Senate to amend SB572. Today the House of Representatives unanimously passed HB1240, a bill that closes glaring loopholes in New Hampshire’s sexual assault statutes that were brought to light as a result of the case against Howie Leung, a teacher at Concord High School and a camp counselor in Newton MA. Many citizens in Concord were shocked to learn that adults working at schools and summer camps in NH are legally permitted to have sexual contact with teens over the age of 16. Outcry from these citizens led to the introduction of HB1240 in the House, and SB468 and SB572 in the Senate. The Senate bills will be debated by the full Senate today or tomorrow. The passage of HB1240 today recognizes that teens cannot freely give consent to sexual contact with those in a position of authority over them because of the imbalance of power. Specifically, HB1240
We applaud the House of Representatives for passing this comprehensive bill. In terms of next steps, HB1240 will head to the Senate Judiciary committee for a hearing and vote. Later today or tomorrow the Senate will debate two bills that also seek to address the loopholes that exist in New Hampshire’s current law. The Coalition urges the State Senate to pass a bill that contains the same level of protections that exist in the House version of the bill. The bill that is currently favored to pass the Senate, SB572, only provides protections to children within educational institutions who are exploited by staff at schools. Although this bill aims to close the so-called “Howie Leung Loophole,” it wouldn’t criminalize acts by adult camp counselors, unpaid staff, volunteers, or contractors working at schools. As we know, Howie Leung is alleged to have committed crimes when acting as a camp counselor, and this behavior would not be criminalized under this bill. In addition, if the Senate passes this bill without amending it to apply to all adults acting in position of authority over teens, it will create a scenario where adults who are gymnastics teachers, camp counselors, scout leaders, and faith leaders are legally permitted to have sexual contact or penetration with teens over the age of 16. “Trusted adults in New Hampshire, regardless of their employment status or job description, must be held accountable and should not be allowed to manipulate their position of authority over the youth in their care. HB1240 will ensure that our youth are better protected, and that prosecutors can do their job when a teen is taken advantage of by a person in a position of trust and authority over them. We urge the Senate to adopt the same level of protection in their bills that are headed to the Senate Floor. Youth in New Hampshire have a right to learn and develop new skills in safe learning and recreational environments and should not have to worry about being exploited by trusted adults charged with their care. No teenager should ever have to worry about how to handle sexual advances from the very people who are charged with protecting or educating them,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Public Affairs Director for the Coalition. We encourage anyone who has been sexually or physically abused, no matter when the abuse occurred, to come forward to seek confidential and compassionate support or information through one of the 13 member programs of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Caring advocates are available 24/7 at the Coalition’s statewide hotline at 1-800-277-5570. About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. Today the House of Representatives unanimously passed HB1240, a bill that closes glaring loopholes in New Hampshire’s sexual assault statutes that were brought to light as a result of the case against Howie Leung, a teacher at Concord High School and a camp counselor in Newton MA. Many citizens in Concord were shocked to learn that adults working at schools and summer camps in NH are legally permitted to have sexual contact with teens over the age of 16. Outcry from these citizens led to the introduction of HB1240 in the House, and SB468 and SB572 in the Senate. The Senate bills will be debated by the full Senate today or tomorrow.
The passage of HB1240 today recognizes that teens cannot freely give consent to sexual contact with those in a position of authority over them because of the imbalance of power. Specifically, HB1240
We applaud the House of Representatives for passing this comprehensive bill. In terms of next steps, HB1240 will head to the Senate Judiciary committee for a hearing and vote. Later today or tomorrow the Senate will debate two bills that also seek to address the loopholes that exist in New Hampshire’s current law. The Coalition urges the State Senate to pass a bill that contains the same level of protections that exist in the House version of the bill. The bill that is currently favored to pass the Senate, SB572, only provides protections to children within educational institutions who are exploited by staff at schools. Although this bill aims to close the so-called “Howie Leung Loophole,” it wouldn’t criminalize acts by adult camp counselors, unpaid staff, volunteers, or contractors working at schools. As we know, Howie Leung is alleged to have committed crimes when acting as a camp counselor, and this behavior would not be criminalized under this bill. In addition, if the Senate passes this bill without amending it to apply to all adults acting in position of authority over teens, it will create a scenario where adults who are gymnastics teachers, camp counselors, scout leaders, and faith leaders are legally permitted to have sexual contact or penetration with teens over the age of 16. “Trusted adults in New Hampshire, regardless of their employment status or job description, must be held accountable and should not be allowed to manipulate their position of authority over the youth in their care. HB1240 will ensure that our youth are better protected, and that prosecutors can do their job when a teen is taken advantage of by a person in a position of trust and authority over them. We urge the Senate to adopt the same level of protection in their bills that are headed to the Senate Floor. Youth in New Hampshire have a right to learn and develop new skills in safe learning and recreational environments and should not have to worry about being exploited by trusted adults charged with their care. No teenager should ever have to worry about how to handle sexual advances from the very people who are charged with protecting or educating them,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Public Affairs Director for the Coalition. We encourage anyone who has been sexually or physically abused, no matter when the abuse occurred, to come forward to seek confidential and compassionate support or information through one of the 13 member programs of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Caring advocates are available 24/7 at the Coalition’s statewide hotline at 1-800-277-5570. About the Coalition: NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. The Coalition honors General federation of women's clubs-nh and county attorney tom velardi10/11/2019 Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton 603-548-9377 October 10, 2019 The Coalition Honors The General Federation of Women’s Clubs-NH and Strafford County Attorney Tom Velardi at Annual Celebration With Special Keynote Speaker Ana Goble On October 10, the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence hosted its Annual Celebration at the Currier Museum to honor several outstanding community partners for their work to support survivors and prevent domestic violence and sexual assault. Ana Goble, the Concord High School teen who bravely reported the inappropriate behavior of former teacher Primo “Howie” Leung and was subsequently suspended for “spreading gossip” was the Coalition’s keynote speaker. In her remarks Ana Goble stated, “I can tell you that speaking up is worth it. Standing up for others is worth it. Doing all you can to make sure no other child is victimized is worth it. Showing up and holding others accountable so no one else is hurt – that is worth it. Choosing to look the other way or to count on others to step in, that is not acceptable. That is not helpful. That is not compassionate. That sends the message to survivors and to perpetrators that we are okay with abuse and violence happening in our community.” “Ana’s courage and belief in what is right inspired a movement that changed her community for the better,” stated Lyn Schollett, the Executive Director of the Coalition. Coalition Honoree, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs-NH has hundreds of dedicated members across New Hampshire whose advocacy efforts center on preventing child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Ann Engelhardt, State President of the GFWC-NH accepted the award on behalf of the Federation. GFWC-NH Chairman, Tina Smith, a survivor of child sexual abuse spoke on behalf of the Federation. “I am here because I want every survivor to know that support is available. I am here because victims’ rights must be taken more seriously by our education and criminal justice systems. I am here because The Coalition showed me what was possible. They have given me, and so many others, hope that we can end domestic and sexual violence.” The Coalition also honored Strafford County Attorney Tom Velardi who has been a champion for victims domestic and sexual violence for over 20 years. In his acceptance speech County Attorney Velardi spoke of the need for equality for victims and survivors, and he highlighted a case of sexual assault of a transgender woman. “People told me that we would never win. We beat the odds of bringing a transgender case in front of a jury, but things like being transgender should not have to enter into the equation. She was a victim of a crime and she deserved her day in court. I was glad to be able to get that for her. That is the kind of thing that rewards me.” Attorney General Gordon MacDonald helped to present County Attorney Velardi’s award. “During his twenty years with the office, he has been a dogged prosecutor, unafraid to take challenging cases. One of Tom’s greatest contributions is his tremendous commitment to the statewide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program – a program that insures that victims get the best medical care they can and that prosecutors get the best evidence they can.” Senate President Donna Soucy, a 2014 Honoree of the Coalition for her support and her work to pass Joshua’s Law was also in attendance. “I would like to congratulate this evening’s honorees—all of whom have displayed the courage to do what’s right and stand up for others in the face of great adversity. The Granite State is a better place because of your dedication and tireless advocacy.” The event also included remarks from two other survivors who have become advocates for other victims here in New Hampshire and nationally. Chessy Prout, a survivor of sexual assault, stated, “I can’t image my survivorship journey without the Coalition. I would also like to extend a special thank you to Ana Goble for using your voice in the face of adversity and the face of resistance. It’s so important that survivors’ voices are heard.” Tiffany Roberts, a survivor of domestic violence spoke to the issue of economic abuse. “The second my abuser knew I was serious about leaving he transferred all of the money from our joint personal checking account to an account only he had access to. This is not a portion of my story I share easily, but for weeks after I left my children and I slept on the floor of my business. I pretended we were camping, while in reality we were homeless. A lack of resources can force victims to make unenviable decisions, but it doesn't have to be this way, that is why I am so proud of the Coalition's Housing First and Economic Empowerment Programs. The Coalition is grateful for the support of our Honorees, tonight’s speakers, and our community of allies working to end domestic violence and sexual assault. The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (NHCADSV) is a statewide network committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence and stalking. The NHCADSV and its 13 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. Online at www.nhcadsv.org A special thank you to our Annual Celebration sponsors who make our work possible.
By acknowledging decades of child sexual abuse and publishing the names of known predators within their institution, the Diocese of Manchester is taking a step towards accountability. For accountability to truly be achieved and for victims and survivors to truly find healing, we must also eliminate the statutes of limitations on these crimes that prohibit survivors from seeking justice once they have decided they are ready to report the abuse they’ve experienced. We recognize that this update form the Manchester Diocese could be difficult to process and a reminder of the traumas that survivors have endured. To all survivors of these crimes, we are with you.
“The reality is that the average age that a survivor of child sexual abuse discloses their experience is 52-years-old. Disclosures of abuse do not fit into artificial timelines, and we believe that every survivor should have the right to seek justice no matter how much time has passed since the abuse occurred. It’s clear that laws in New Hampshire must be reformed in order to protect victims of sexual abuse and to hold their offenders accountable. Specifically, we must work to abolish the statute of limitations in sexual abuse cases, and we hope to have the support of the Diocese of Manchester in advocating for these necessary policy changes. We look forward to working with policymakers and stakeholders, including the Diocese of Manchester, to begin discussions around how to best bring forward these necessary reforms in New Hampshire. True accountability and healing cannot take place while statutes of limitations on sexual violence still exist.” – Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs, NHCADSV. We encourage the Diocese of Manchester to ensure that survivors are connected to their local domestic and sexual violence crisis center to receive confidential, trauma-informed support. We know that oftentimes survivors of clergy sexual abuse are not comfortable seeking support from the institution where they were victimized, and it is critical that they are connected to independent victim advocacy organizations. Crisis center advocates are available 24/7 across NH to provide free and confidential support to anyone impacted by domestic or sexual violence – you do not need to be in crisis to call. To speak with a confidential advocate in your community, please call the statewide sexual assault hotline at 1-800-277-5570 or find the crisis center nearest you at https://www.nhcadsv.org/member-programs.html. The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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.
The shocking news of 82 indictments against two former guards at the Youth Development Center, now known as the Sununu Youth Detention Center, is a reminder that we must be vigilant in our efforts to ensure that those in positions of authority to do not abuse their power and cause devastating harm to the children entrusted in their care. We stand with these young victims and their families, and would like to remind all Granite Staters they’re not alone. When violence and abuse happen in our communities, we are all impacted.
We know that most children ordered to youth detentions centers have experienced trauma in their childhood, and that the more trauma a child experiences, the more vulnerable they become to future victimization. Perpetrators often target victims who have already been groomed by abusers, or who they think are unlikely to be believed if they disclose the abuse. When even one brave survivor comes forward to report abuse, it can give other victims the courage to break their silence. It is critical that people know that assistance and support is always available. “The children entrusted in the care of the Sununu Youth Services Center are among the most vulnerable populations in the State of New Hampshire, and we are deeply disturbed by these indictments. We stand with the brave survivors and their families, and we look forward to working with policymakers to ensure that children who are in the care of the State of New Hampshire are safe and free from abuse, and that true systemic change is brought about to ensure the well-being and protection of children are prioritized. Intervening and holding offenders and institutions accountable is paramount in our fight to end child abuse and sexual violence.” – Amanda Grady Sexton Director of Public Affairs, NHCADSV. Crisis center advocates are available across NH to provide free and confidential support to anyone impacted by domestic and sexual violence. Crisis center services are available to anyone who has experienced or witnessed abuse, or who is looking to find ways to support someone who has. Crisis centers can provide individual support; support groups; assistance in reporting abuse; help navigating the legal system; court and hospital accompaniment; housing assistance; and referrals for local services including mental health and substance abuse treatment. It is important to remember you do not need to be in crisis, nor do you need to be a victim, to access crisis center services. To speak with an advocate, please call the statewide domestic violence hotline at 1-866-644-3574 or the statewide sexual assault hotline at 1-800-277-5570 or find the crisis center nearest you at https://www.nhcadsv.org/member-programs.html. Any person with information regarding criminal conduct at the YDC/Sununu Center is also urged to contact Investigator James Kinney at the Attorney General’s Office at (603) 271-1258 or email: james.kinney@doj.nh.gov. The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is a statewide network of 13 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 13 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. |
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